1st April 2010, 08:44 PM
I have come across a few Hat Doffers in my time and for a while this may work, but without a proper structure to the profession their careers ( no joke intended) will stagnate just like anyone else. You may if your lucky get the promotion but have you been properly trained and equipped for the role? It's easy for many in such positions to kid themselves on that they are doing a good job and in turn pass on the conceit to the next generation. I've met many archaeologists like this over the years, people who given the title supervisor think they have arrived as archaeologists! I've been working in archaeology for a good while now and I'm not afraid to admit that i don't know everything, but as a wise man who helped train me once said "when you know everything in archaeology it's time to leave". Personally I'm still learning and hope to continue to do so for many years. Indeed I'd like the opportunity to further not only my understanding of archaeology, but also other aspects of the job (many and varied). I could pay for additional training myself and struggle even more financially and hopefully reap some reward for myself in doing so. Alternatively I could be part of the struggle to unionize my profession and not only find benefits for myself in doing so, but also for my colleagues! I choose the latter!