If you don’t already know Web Manager Jonathan Greene, prepare to be blown away by his many-faceted work history at Mystic Seaport. With an Associate’s Degree in web design and animation and a BS in the digital recording arts from New England Tech, who knows what the future holds for Jonathan.
1. How long have you been employed at Mystic Seaport?
JG: I was hired in July 2001. I was 17-years-old and it was my first job. The Museum Store manager said she hired me because I wore a tie for the interview! I became manager of the North Gate store before Event Network took over management; then I worked in the café where I made the fudge. Those two jobs were my favorites. I also worked in the wholesale department and handled technical needs, managed cash registers, and worked with artwork and prints. Actually, my family has a long tradition at Mystic Seaport. My great grandfather, grandfather, and mother all worked for the Museum. When you visit the schoolhouse, look for the initials “KIRK” and “MK” carved into one of the desks. “KIRK” is the nickname from my grandfather’s last name, Kirkpatrick, and MK are the initials of my grandmother. My grandfather was instructed to help make the new schoolhouse desks look old, so he carved those initials.
2. What’s the best part of your job?
JG: Since I have held so many different jobs at the Museum, I’ve gotten to know many people personally. I really enjoy seeing and talking with them on a regular basis; it’s like an extended family here. The best part of my current job is realizing that just one slight change made to our website might have a worldwide impact and encourage someone visiting our website to come and visit Mystic Seaport. That’s powerful stuff!
3. What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?
JG: Keeping up with technology. It’s kind of frustrating when you’re aware of some terrific new technology, but realize the cost is too prohibitive for the Museum to purchase. Setting up the eBay and Amazon connection has helped alert folks to what the Museum Store has to offer. The other challenge for me has been balancing tasks as I transitioned from job to job. I still get questions related to former positions I’ve held.
4. What’s the funniest or most notable on-the-job experience you’ve had?
JG: Most notable is probably an experience I missed by a year. I would have loved being on staff when the Amistad was launched. Thinking back, I was excited at the prospect of meeting TV reporter, Geraldo, who had moored his boat at Mystic Seaport. Along comes this guy wearing pink tights, riding a bicycle, who wanted gate admittance so he could get aboard his boat. It was Geraldo. That sort of cured me of my youthful fascination with celebrities. I realized they’re just ordinary people like you and me.
5. What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?
JG: I’m a movie and movie trivia buff. I also like playing video games and enjoy photography – and you can imagine – the computer is ever present!
Jonathan was interviewed by volunteer Trudi Busey and photographed by Andy Price.
