FAST: A NEW APPROACH TO TRAINING FUTURE GEOARCHAEOLOGISTS

The Forensic and Archaeological Subsurface Targets (FAST) program at the Kansas Geological Survey began in 2021 and utilizes a variety of research methods for archaeological applications. These methods include non-invasive geophysical methods (magnetics, electrical resistivity and conductivity, GPS, and ground-penetrating radar), soil and landform formation investigation, historical research and analysis, artifact cataloging and analysis, and archaeological excavation techniques that are regularly utilized in cultural resource management (CRM). FAST has been designed to train undergraduate and graduate students with skills and techniques that are required or recommended qualifications for entering the CRM workforce after graduation. This presentation will highlight major successes of the program including the development of a student led laboratory, new field courses that are co-led by geology and archaeology faculty, transferable skills training such as CV and resume writing, direction writing technical reports, and participation in ongoing research projects that provide paid opportunities for students to gain experience in both lab and fieldwork methods. We conclude by proposing ideas for future training opportunities to enhance curriculum at the undergraduate level.