Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hometown: The Woodlands, Texas
Work experience: Petroleum Engineer – Retired from ExxonMobil in 2021
What do you like to do in your free time? Bake goodies for my coworkers, genealogy work, work with new technology and hang out with family and friends.
What do you like most about the Outer Banks? The laid back island atmosphere – there’s nothing really required to do.
How did you end up in your volunteer position with the National Park Service?
I recently retired and was looking to explore North Carolina and the Outer Banks.
What did a typical volunteer shift look like for you?
Eight-hour shifts working alongside park rangers doing interpretive programs and greeting guests at the park.
As a volunteer, which questions were you most often asked by park visitors? Do you have any “insider” tips for visiting Fort Raleigh National Historic Site?
The question I was asked the most often was: “What is there to do here?” Explore the inside of the visitor center first. Make sure you attend a ranger program, as they are the highlight of the site.
What did you enjoy most about volunteering at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site?
Interacting and meeting with people from all over the world!
What is a favorite memory you have from volunteering?
Having a young visitor asking to help me take down the flag.
Why are our Outer Banks national parks important?
Our parks are important because they preserve the history not only of the Outer Banks, but also history that is relevant to the entire nation.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or about volunteering in our Outer Banks national parks?
From Ranger Tiffany: “I worked with Paul nearly every day this summer. He was a caring coworker and a joy to be around! He brought energy and innovative ideas to the park. He is easy-going and was a great member of our team. We will miss the sweat treats he baked us and hope one day he gets the official straw hat he has always wanted!”
If you’re interested in volunteering in our Outer Banks national parks, check out this Visitor Services Volunteer position at Wright Brothers National Memorial!