LIFE ALONG AN ACTIVE MARGIN: TRANSFORMATIONS IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR THE FUTURE OF GEOARCHAEOLOGY

Geoarchaeologists are taking leadership roles in cultural resource management and other applied research settings at an increasing pace. At the same time, we are expanding our influence on review and compliance outcomes, problem solving and risk mitigation for clients, and engagement with descendent communities and stakeholders. In addition to providing interpretation of site-formation processes, there is increasing demand for geoarchaeologists to use their understanding of depositional processes, geomorphology, geochronology, predictive modelling (etc.) to identify buried archaeological components as part of Phase I surveys. But many regions of the U.S. face a shortage of qualified early career specialists to carry this work forward. Student debt, department closures, course cancellations, faculty departures, and other factors pose barriers to entry. What can be done to support and streamline this “active margin” of education and training for future practitioners? This paper will draw from three decades of experience in CRM and examine the big picture issues of workforce development for those entering careers. With a call to action focused on strengthening professional networks and field-based training experiences, we will also propose big picture solutions to sustain the growth of our discipline and amplify the impact of geoarchaeological approaches.