March Volunteer Spotlight – Natalie Michael
Position(s): Docent and training to guide tours
Volunteering since: October 2018 during Spooktacular family day event
Q: When and how did you become a motorsports enthusiast?
When I was a teenager, I visited the Woodburn Dragstrip to watch a friend race. I enjoy the environment and began going with him more to see him race and attend other events.
Q: What kind of influence has that had on your life?
Since this, I continue to see races at the dragstrip and visiting car shows. Personally, I have not raced but support women in racing.
Q: What makes volunteering at World of Speed meaningful to you?
The staff and other volunteers have been extremely welcoming! Every time I go into the museum I learn something new and enjoy this aspect. Each vehicle has a unique history and story to tell.
Q: What is the most memorable experience of your time volunteering?
The most memorable experience is meeting guests and hearing their relationships with cars. I have meet artists who take incredible pictures and create sketches as well as people who have worked on the cars displayed in the museum.
Q: What do you wish other people knew about World of Speed?
Many do not realize how huge the car industry is. I encourage people to explore more including attending workshops offered at the museum and learning about the partnerships we have with the schools and community colleges to create an automotive program for students.
Q: If you could choose any vehicle to be displayed in the museum, what would it be?
If I could pick any vehicle to be displayed in the museum, I would have to pick the DeLorean from the Back to the Future films. It plays an extremely important role in the film and it would be amazing to see it in person.
Q: What is your dream car?
It is difficult to pick one car! I love a majority of the Porsche models with the Cayman S and Boxster being my top picks.