Please tell us about yourself.
I’m from the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. I was a Press Operator (printed books) for 27 years before moving to the Outer Banks. I am now the Assistant Store Manager of the Outer Banks Forever store at Wright Brothers National Memorial. I have been with Eastern National (the operator of the Outer Banks Forever store) for seven years. I enjoy traveling, specifically to other National Park Service sites, walking, hiking, swimming, and meeting new people.
What do you enjoy most about the Outer Banks?
I love how small it is, the weather, and our beaches.
What led you to follow this career path?
I was tired of factory work. I tried other retail work at Lowe’s, and after receiving some good advice, I applied with Eastern National.
What does a typical workday or work week look like for you?
A typical workday varies but can include bringing products to the store from the warehouse, working in the store, or receiving orders in.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy the warehouse portion of my position most, such as receiving product in and organizing and managing our inventory at the warehouse, but I enjoy this job because I get to meet new people from all over all the time.
What is your favorite memory from your time working at the Wright Brothers National Memorial store?
My favorite memory would be December 17 at one of the first flight anniversary celebrations meeting the “Candy Bomber” Col. Gail Halverson and the flight crew.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you, about the Wright Brothers store, or about our Outer Banks national parks?
What we hear most from visitors is, “This was more interesting than I thought it would be.” The Outer Banks is full of history, which is amazing, being 200 miles long from Carova down to Ocracoke Island with the widest part being three miles wide and the narrowest 150 yards. Come see us!