Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

-Develop, conduct, and oversees world-class scientific research specifically to inform policy decisions regarding development of Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) energy and mineral resources.
-Regulate environmentally-responsible offshore renewable energy development activities. In support of that objective, archaeologists identify and protect archaeological sites and other historic properties that may be impacted by offshore renewable energy activities.

If offshore, conduct geophysical survey and diving on targets to identify archaeological sites. If in the office, develop policy, review survey data, and coordinate research activities designed to identify archaeological sites.

I get to do both types of jobs that appeal to me: shaping policy and conducting scientific research.

Politics and economics occasionally drive decision-making in a way that yields a less environmentally-responsible approach.

I enjoy working in renewable energy because I can shape the future of my country and ease its fossil fuel dependency, all while conducting archaeological research and protecting historic properties.

Fluency in US law concerning management of archaeological sites and other historic properties; competency with US and other countries' renewable energy leasing and development regulations; facilitation, negotiation, and sensitivity skills.

I maintain my subject matter expertise through constant reading, conference attendance, and skills development in the latest technology for data collection and diving. I am proactive in training myself, even when my employer cannot spare funds to do so.

Senior Technical Manager for Cultural Resources/Archaeologist
Ecosystem Management & Associates, Inc.
July 2008 – September 2011 (3 years 3 months)

Principal Investigator/Project Manager
Geo-Marine Inc.
February 2006 – June 2008 (2 years 5 months)

Assistant Project Manager/Archaeologist
R. Christopher Goodwin & Associates, Inc.
May 2001 – February 2006 (4 years 10 months)

Adjunct Instructor
Missouri Southern State University
August 2002 – January 2004 (1 year 6 months)

Adjunct Instructor
Johnson County Community College
August 2002 – May 2003 (10 months)

Archaeologist
Humber Archaeological Partnership
May 2000 – August 2000 (4 months)

I intend to extend my career into policy making and shaping the future of my country through government. There is a great need for educated scientists to contribute in this way because responsible decision-making is based in science, not necessarily in politics with short-term interests. My education will continue in two main areas: (1) leadership, management and budget; and (2) expertise in archaeological method and management of historic properties.

Don't be afraid of honing your management, communication, and leadership skills; scientists need these just as much as business people - perhaps, moreso. Take advantage of any opportunities to learn and gain experience, regardless of personal sacrifice required. Volunteering in your field while still at university will establish you as committed to the discipline and experienced in applied archaeology, setting you up nicely for that first paid position.

To make money as a scientist, you must know something about the business world and you must maintain irreproachable professional integrity and ethics. Developing a working knowledge of contracting, budgeting, business organization and program management is essential to making a living as a scientist unless your technical expertise is unsurpassed. Only one or two individuals ever reach that pinnacle. Instead, strive to make yourself irreplaceable in other ways.