Terry Howell, the Chief Operating Officer of the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, takes us on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of aviation history. Nestled in McMinnville, Oregon, this museum is not just a collection of aircraft; it’s a vibrant hub dedicated to preserving the stories of those who flew them and the technology behind the machines. The museum has earned its stripes as one of the top ten aviation museums in the U.S., and with good reason!

In our conversation, Terry reveals how the museum has evolved over the years—from its humble beginnings to housing the iconic Spruce Goose, a marvel of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity. We learn about some of the incredible exhibits, including a detailed discussion of the Spruce Goose’s storied past and its journey to McMinnville, which sounds like something out of a movie. Oh, did I forget to mention the SR-71 Blackbird they have in the museum? It is just one of the unique collection of aircraft, from vintage warbirds to space travel artifacts, along with ongoing restoration projects.

Terry shares anecdotes about the museum's educational initiatives that bring aviation and space exploration to life for kids and adults alike, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning. Whether it’s a field trip for local schools or summer camps focusing on aviation science, the museum plays a pivotal role in inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.

The passion of the volunteers, many of whom are veterans with firsthand experience, adds an extra layer of authenticity and connection to the aircraft they care for. With so much to see and do, we encourage listeners to plan a visit to this gem of a museum. You'll walk away with not just knowledge, but a deep appreciation for the history that shaped our skies.

[00:00] Welcome and Introduction

[01:17] Thought to Ponder

[01:47] Guest Introduction: Terry Howell

[03:22] Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum Overview

[05:27] The Spruce Goose: A Storied History

[08:11] Restoration and Favorite Aircraft

[12:32] Space Artifacts and Future Plans

[17:54] Flight Simulators and Unique Exhibits

[20:13] Exploring the Skunkworks Collection

[20:52] The IMAX Theater and Event Spaces

[22:54] Community Engagement and Local Impact

[26:25] Educational Programs and Camps

[31:45] Veterans and Volunteer Contributions

[33:20] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

[34:46] Fun Facts and Jokes

Takeaways:

• The Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon, is a treasure trove of aviation history, showcasing iconic aircraft while promoting education for all ages.
• Terry Howell's journey from the Coast Guard to COO of a leading aviation museum highlights the power of seizing opportunities and following your passion.
• The Spruce Goose, housed in the museum, is not just a plane; it's a legendary piece of history that took years to restore and is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts.
• The museum offers engaging educational programs, including summer camps, robotics workshops, and field trips, emphasizing hands-on learning and community involvement.
• Terry passionately discusses the unique artifacts and aircraft, including the Warthog A-10 and the SR-71, showcasing the museum's diverse collection aimed at inspiring future generations.
• Visitors can experience thrilling flight simulators at the museum, offering a taste of flying iconic aircraft like the Spruce Goose and the SR-71, making learning both fun and immersive.

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