May2014

CAREERS IN ARCHAEOLOGYOver the years, my work at KYTC has changed. I now spend littletime in the field. When I am out of the office, it is typicallyfor small, simple projects that can be easily cleared. Largertransportation projects are sent to consultants, and I help managethe archaeological aspects from the office. I usually live vicariouslythrough the consultants, visiting their ongoing workand reviewing their reports. I do enjoy working with them ondeveloping mitigation research designs. These opportunitiespermit me to have an impact on Kentucky archaeology by consideringnew theories, supporting new methods and technologies,and incorporating public archaeology and outreach. And Ifind it very rewarding.Figure 2. An onsite visit to a cool site… Living vicariously through the fieldworkof a consultant.Though not actively seeking another job, I was mindful of theebb and flow of funding, and I was willing to entertain otheropportunities for advancement.In 1999, a close friend told me about an archaeology position atthe Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). I submitted a letterof introduction, a detailed CV, and numerous recommendations.To my interview I brought many report examples (excludingthat horrible first one) that emphasized my experience inconducting research, field methods, and my ability to argueconvincingly for a site’s eligibility for listing in the NationalRegister. I was fully prepared to highlight my various skills andthe personal qualities I could bring to the job and the workenvironment.Another way I impact Kentucky archaeology is through policyand decision-making. In 1999, when the government madechanges to the Section 106 process and the National HistoricPreservation Act, I worked with the Kentucky Division of theFederal Highway Administration (FHWA) to develop theirprocess for consulting with federally recognized Indian tribes. Inow assist FHWA by preparing consultation packets thatinclude information on archaeology and the identification ofpotential traditional cultural places.I have discovered that geographic information systems (GIS)are a fundamental tool for professional archaeologists. Initially,I played a supporting role in the development of a statewide GISfor archaeological sites and surveys. This sparked my interest indeveloping predictive models for prehistoric site locations. Withthe recent availability of high resolution LiDAR data, I havebegun incorporating this information into my everyday workand also pursuing personal research locating prehistoric earthworksand mounds. All of this I find cosmically rewarding.I did not have that advanced degree, but my extensive experienceand demonstrated ability to see projects through, fromstart to finish, landed me that job. I also think that my ability towork well with others helped. Nobody wants to work with a jerkfor the rest of their career, no matter how brilliant they may be!I was happy to be a gainfully employed full-time archaeologist(with health insurance) and to have the opportunity to furthermy career.Initially, I spent much of my time in the field carrying out surveyand testing projects on proposed transportation projects,with some review of reports submitted by consultants for Section106 Compliance. Working with a good team of fellowarchaeologists allows me to share ideas and consider differentapproaches to the everyday problems that come with archaeologyand transportation projects.Figure 3. A typical day at the office.10 The SAA Archaeological Record • May 2014