From TTAP to NPS: Sophie Millar

Sophie Millar recently worked as a Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) and TTAP Landscape Stewardship Corps (LSC) intern at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site and the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. This experience led her to a NPS position as a gardener at the White House and President's Park. We caught up with her to hear about her experience, her background, and her work now as an NPS employee.

Sophie Millar participated in two TTAP terms. One as a carpentry assistant and the other as a gardener.

NPS Photo

When were you a part of TTAP and where were you placed?

I was a TTAP member from November 2023 to August 2024. For my first term I was a carpentry assistant at the Home of FDR and Vanderbilt Mansion. I then accepted another TTAP term with their Landscape Stewardship Corps. This time I was working at FDR with the garden crew.

How did you first become interested in historic preservation?

My background is in environmental science, and I was looking to expand my skills into the trades. I had heard about this position through one of my old supervisors. Once I began working at FDR I really started to appreciate and understand the importance of historic preservation. Being able to meet so many people that were so passionate about history and preservation really sparked my interest.

What was one of the coolest projects you worked on in TTAP?

Working in the vegetable garden at FDR was probably one of my favorite parts. It combined my background of environmental studies with historic preservation, and I was also able to use my carpentry skills to help out with structures in the garden. We planted crops that were historically accurate and also had exhibits that showcased how people can grow food at their own homes. A lot of the produce was donated so I learned about how to handle food safely and about food security in the Hudson Valley.

How did you become an NPS employee?

I applied for a gardener position with the White House during my second term with TTAP. I created my federal resume, filled out the certification online and ended up getting an interview with my current job. While with TTAP I had gained a lot of advice and tips of creating my federal resume from my coworkers and supervisors. I now work at the White House with the President’s Park team.

Sophie enjoys gardening both flowers and vegetables in her position.

NPS Photo

How did TTAP influence your career choices?

I had always wanted to work for the National Park Service, but it always seemed like a distant goal. If I hadn’t done TTAP I don’t think I would have learned about all the opportunities and career paths with NPS.

How did TTAP help prepare you for your NPS position?

TTAP allowed me to gain hands on training as well as gave me insight to the hiring process with the federal government. It allowed me to network with a lot of impressive people from all over the country. I’ve made a lot of new connections through my time with TTAP including mentors, friends, and colleagues. I’m especially grateful for everyone at FDR. They were so welcoming to me and were always giving me advice and resources. They really wanted me to succeed as an individual.

What advice would you give to someone interested in TTAP?

I would say don’t be afraid to try something new. There’s a high demand for preservationists and TTAP is a great way to gain experience and network.

To learn more, visit the Traditional Trades Advancement Program and Landscape Stewardship Corps pages.