Attending the 50 Years of Discovery conference with support from the CIfA bursary was a genuinely formative experience for me as an early-career field archaeologist and trainee Roman pottery specialist. I must say, given how new I am to the world of professional archaeology, opportunities like this can feel a little daunting at the start of your career, but this event proved just how valuable it is to step into wider professional spaces early on.
What struck me most was the quality and variety of the talks across the two days. Each session offered something thought‑provoking, whether it was new methodological approaches, fresh interpretations of familiar material, or reflections on how the discipline has evolved over the past five decades. The conference format itself was well considered. It was structured enough to keep the programme flowing – despite the odd technical glitch - but relaxed enough to encourage genuine discussion. I found that the informal conversations between sessions were just as valuable as the talks; being able to speak directly with established specialists, ask questions, and hear about their career paths was incredibly beneficial. It also reinforced that archaeology is, at its core, a collaborative discipline built on shared curiosity and open dialogue – none of us exist in isolation!
Networking can definitely feel like a corporate buzzword, and (having used it countless times in my old job) it makes me shiver just typing it, yet in practice it simply means meeting people who share your interests and enthusiasm. This event gave me the chance to connect not only with industry professionals but also with colleagues and friends at similar stages in their careers. Those conversations have already led to new ideas, practical advice, and a stronger sense of belonging within the archaeological community. Most importantly, attending the conference helped me see my own career trajectory more clearly. It highlighted the value of continuing professional development and reminded me that early career archaeologists have an important place in shaping the future of the discipline. Engaging with current research, hearing about ongoing projects, and participating in discussions all contributed to building my confidence and expanding my perspective.
For anyone at the beginning of their archaeological career, I would strongly encourage taking advantage of opportunities like this - especially when bursaries or funding support are available. Conferences are not just about absorbing information; they are about becoming part of the conversation. They expose you to new ideas, connect you with the wider archaeological community, and help you grow both academically and personally.
This conference was exactly that for me: a chance to learn, to connect and if you’re considering attending a similar event, I can say with confidence that it is well worth taking that step!
Joe Greenacre
Field Archaeologist and Trainee Roman Pottery Specialist