Marissa Coleman
Image Digitizing Specialist
Q: How long have you worked at AMA and what is your current role?
A: My first day was February 12, 2024. I currently work as the National Model Aviation Museum’s image digitizing specialist, which involves digitizing and editing images from different collections, recording metadata, and assisting with interpretation and preservation. It also includes monitoring the condition of materials, ensuring proper handling and care, and supporting conservation efforts under the supervision of Michael Smith, the museum’s director, and Jackie Shalberg, the museum’s historian and archivist.
Q: What hobbies do you have?
A: I go to the gym Monday through Friday, so I guess some would consider that a hobby, but to me, it’s more like a necessary evil. I also like to walk and do yoga. I am currently into reading, scary movies, playing computer games, shopping, and hanging out with friends and family.
Q: What is your favorite place to eat in the Muncie, Indiana, area?
A: The 1925 PubHouse in downtown Muncie is my favorite restaurant. The hot honey bacon brussels sprouts are very good.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: I have a 7-year-old Pit Bull/Labrador mix named Jasmine, who is back home in Louisville, Kentucky.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working at AMA?
A: I enjoy working with my colleagues and seeing all of the different people who come to visit the museum.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment from your time at AMA?
A: The 2024 solar eclipse event that was held at the International Aeromodeling Center was definitely the most memorable.
Q: What is a detail or aspect of your job that people outside of AMA might not realize is so important?
A: As I mentioned earlier, part of my job includes digitizing our collections and making them accessible on the museum’s website. This might not seem like a big deal to most, but making these pieces of model aviation history available to the public not only helps to educate those who aren’t familiar with the hobby, but also captures the memories of those who are.
