• January 8, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• Plaza A, Lobby Level

2C: Now What? Career Opportunities for Archaeology Graduates and Enthusiasts (Workshop)

Sponsored by:
AIA Student Affairs Interest Group

Organizers:
Allison A. Davis, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Wendy Vencel, North Carolina State University

Panelists:
William Loder, Independent Scholar, Adin White, Chico State University, Joel Christensen, CUNY, Jennifer Sacher, Hesperia, American School of Classical Studies at Athens, Natalie Susmann, Brandeis University, and Dani McIvor, Exec Director, The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough

Overview Statement:
What can you do with a degree in archaeology? This workshop, sponsored by the Student Affairs Interest Group, provides a collaborative forum to explore career pathways for individuals with degrees in archaeology. Designed for undergraduates, graduate students, and early career scholars, the session brings together a panel of experienced professionals to share strategies for navigating the ever-evolving job market within and beyond the academy.

Career uncertainty and employment pressures are persistent challenges for students and emerging professionals in archaeology. While many faculty mentors are best positioned to advise on academic trajectories, students increasingly seek guidance on broader opportunities. This workshop responds to that need by presenting a range of professional experiences that demonstrate the versatility of archaeological training.

Panelists will address critical questions, including:

• What career opportunities exist for those passionate about archaeology?
• Are graduate degrees essential for employment in the field?
• What options are available outside of academia?
• How can individuals effectively communicate their skills and experience to diverse employers?
• What strategies can help navigate current challenges in the public and private sectors?

The workshop will open with brief introductions from our panelists, who represent a range of career paths and experiences. James Newhard, for example, has advised classics and archaeology undergraduates at a public university for over a decade with a focus on preparing students for life after graduation; as a member of the AIA Mentorship Subcommittee, his current project is to advise the advisors on training students beyond academic professions. For a different perspective, Matt Stirn has experience pursuing archaeology through photography and journalism, exemplifying how archaeological training can support multidisciplinary professional goals. Additional panelists will bring perspectives from national services, cultural resource management, and private-sector work.

Following panelist introductions, we will pose our prepared questions to prompt discussion around career development, professional identity, and transferable skills. The session will conclude with an open Q&A, encouraging attendees to ask questions, share concerns, and engage in peer dialogue.

By connecting students and early career professionals with a diverse group of mentors, this workshop aims to empower attendees with practical tools, broader perspectives, and a clearer understanding of the career possibilities available to those with a degree in archaeology.