Jules Xavier
Shilo Stag

Imagine exploring military history, including artillery donations, currently languishing shelves behind the scenes at CFB Shilo’s RCA Museum.
You can do that and much more if you are interested in volunteering, according to senior curator Jonathan Ferguson.
What do you need to be — criteria — a volunteer with the RCA Museum?
“No prior museum experience is required to volunteer at the RCA Museum,” offered Ferguson. “Anyone with an interest in Canada’s military history and Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery is encouraged to apply.”
He added, “Because of our location at CFB Shilo, volunteers are required to hold reliability-level security clearance or higher. For those who do not yet have their security clearance, the first step will be a police records check with vulnerable sector screening.”
Don’t let the security clearance or screening deter you from being a volunteer.
Why are volunteers required to assist Ferguson and director Andrew Oakden with the vast artillery treasures on display, inside and outdoors, plus the wealth of donations secured behind the scenes at the museum?
According to Ferguson, “The RCA Museum has a small staff for the size of its collections and galleries, so there are always opportunities to help. Volunteers can assist with behind-the-scenes tasks such as processing new donations and the care of collections, and with public-facing duties like giving tours and staffing outreach events.”
The RCA Museum offers the following volunteer opportunities if you are interested in joining the full-time staff: archives/library assistant, artefact researcher, curator assistant, marketing assistant, website development, museum guide, museum researcher, newsletter contributor, special eventsoOutreach attendant or graphics and design artist.
Among the volunteer positions available, what skills are needed to do artefact processing?
“Staff will provide training for volunteers in performing their chosen role,” explained Ferguson. “No experience is required, but helpful skills include attention to detail, computer skills, photography and an interest in history.”
What’s the process to become a museum volunteer?
“The first step to volunteer at the RCA Museum is to reach out to the museum and complete a volunteer application form,” said Ferguson. “If accepted, volunteers will sign a service agreement for their roles and responsibilities. Staff will guide volunteers through the process of applying for any requirements for their position, like security clearance, ID, and a computer account.”
How much time does a volunteer need to put in helping out in the museum’s library and archives?
Ferguson said, “Volunteers assisting with the museum’s library and archives, or similar tasks, are asked to commit to two hours or more per week. Schedules can be flexible, but communication for changes and absences is important.”
Are there specific times where volunteers are needed to help out at the museum?
According to Ferguson, volunteers are needed when the museum is open, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday during three seasons fall, winter and spring. For summer hours the museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours, days and locations may differ for volunteers assisting with Outreach events.
For the 2023 museum season, Ferguson said he’s looking to expand its volunteer base by adding six more volunteers.
How does a potential volunteer approach the museum to apply for the various positions available? Is a resume needed? History background? Degree or high school diploma?
Ferguson said applicants are welcome to provide a resume with their education and work experience, but this is not required to volunteer. Visit the museum’s website at www.rcamuseum.com to learn more about the venue, and how to contact him, or Oakden.
Ferguson is available by phone at 204-765-3000 ext 3531.