I originally hail from Lawrence, Kansas and hold my degree in Anthropology from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!). In 2010 I moved to England, where I studied for an MA in Social Archaeology at the University of Southampton and then undertook doctoral study at UCL, researching Anglo-Saxon kingdom formation. I started my commercial archaeology career first as an excavator at MOLA, then as a terrestrial geophysicist at Wessex Archaeology. I also lead my own research, including community-based work, which seeks to engage under-represented groups with archaeological concepts and methods.
My goal in upgrading my accreditation with CIfA was to seize the opportunity to consolidate my experience, quantify my CPD and gain recognition for my work to date. The process gave me the confidence to seek promotion and transition to a new role in marine geophysics, where I can continue to develop. I am passionate about archaeological contributions to sustainability and green energy projects, such as offshore wind. By being proactive in maintaining my CIfA accreditation, I am reaffirming the basis from which to seek further and more diverse opportunities within a framework of personal and professional growth.
