Matthew Ericson
Martinsburg
Summary
Dedicated professional with extensive experience in public history, focusing on educational initiatives and community engagement. Proven ability to foster collaborative learning environments that inspire and motivate participants. Strong background in developing programs that enhance public understanding of historical contexts and narratives.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Education Programs Manager
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Washington
01.2025 - Current
- Managed training sessions on educational content and delivery methods for staff development.
- Developed educational programs for diverse visitor groups at a national site.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to enhance visitor engagement and learning experiences.
- Facilitated partnerships with local schools to support educational outreach initiatives.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through participant feedback and assessments.
- Coordinated logistics for workshops, streamlining scheduling and resource allocation to support successful training delivery.
- Managed human resource functions, establishing clear guidelines and performance expectations to enhance team effectiveness.
- Supervised administrative and technical operations for a staff of two or more employees, ensuring effective team performance.
Education Specialist
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Washington
11.2017 - 01.2025
- Developed and delivered onsite educational programs for general public, students, and educators.
- Implemented online student programs to enhance learning opportunities.
- Created content for teacher workshops both onsite and online.
- Collaborated with external partners to design and implement educational programming, strengthening community engagement and outreach efforts.
- Developed training initiatives with training division and volunteer coordinator, enhancing educator skillsets and program effectiveness.
- Worked with exhibits team to review exhibit content and ensure educational alignment.
- Led project teams for special events, including family days and Capitol Hill days, ensuring successful execution and participant engagement.
- Produced website content, including virtual vote resources and workshop flyers.
Visitor Guide
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Washington
10.2014 - 10.2017
- Developed and delivered tours of United States Capitol
- Researched, developed, and delivered specialty tour highlighting 19th Century Senate history, enriching visitor understanding of legislative evolution
- Developed and delivered training for a special tour to Visitor Services Division staff
- Supported execution of Congressional events, including state funerals, State of the Union addresses, and inaugurations
- Researched content for the creation of both an educational article and lecture for Visitor Services staff on Congress and the aftermath of the Civil War
- Researched and created content for department newsletter on Capitol and Congressional history, enhancing staff knowledge and engagement
Historic Interpreter
Woodlawn Plantation and Pope-Leighey House
Alexandria
10.2013 - 04.2015
- Conducted engaging tours of Georgian plantation home and Frank Lloyd Wright house, enriching visitor understanding of architectural history.
- Managed on-site special events, fostering memorable interactions that enhanced overall visitor satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs for new staff, ensuring consistent delivery of exceptional visitor experiences.
- Processed ticket sales and gift shop transactions efficiently.
Graduate Assistant
Old Dominion University
Norfolk
08.2012 - 05.2013
- Developed and delivered classroom content aligned with curriculum objectives, enhancing student comprehension
- Managed three recitation classes of 30 students, fostering an engaging learning environment
- Collaborated with faculty to develop and grade assignments, ensuring consistent assessment standards
- Collaborated with faculty to manage class administration
- Conducted weekly office hours
Park Guide
National Park Service
Yorktown
06.2008 - 04.2013
- Developed and delivered battlefield tours and educational programs, engaging diverse audiences and enhancing their historical understanding.
- Researched primary source records to develop accurate educational resources, ensuring historical authenticity and enriching visitor experiences.
- Delivered costumed living history demonstrations to engage participants and enhance learning.
- Collaborated to create an interactive program for school-aged children, fostering engagement and learning through hands-on experiences.
Education
Master of Arts - History
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA05-2013
Bachelor of Arts - History
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University
Blacksburg, VA05-2010
Skills
- Educational programming
- Curriculum development
- Educational content creation
- Program evaluation
- Project management
- Training management
- Stakeholder collaboration
- Logistics coordination
Professional Publications
The Civil War in Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks. Published by History Press, 2026.
Timeline
Education Programs Manager
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
01.2025 - Current
Education Specialist
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
11.2017 - 01.2025
Visitor Guide
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
10.2014 - 10.2017
Historic Interpreter
Woodlawn Plantation and Pope-Leighey House
10.2013 - 04.2015
Graduate Assistant
Old Dominion University
08.2012 - 05.2013
Park Guide
National Park Service
06.2008 - 04.2013
Master of Arts - History
Old Dominion University
Bachelor of Arts - History
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University