Scenarios and Guidance
Getting Involved with Historic Preservation
If you simply love old buildings and want to get involved in preservation efforts, these are some common scenarios you may encounter. Within each scenario is a number of resources that may be helpful.
I am interested in further education so I can work in the field.
1. Find all the accredited historic preservation programs and internship opportunities through the National Council for Preservation Education.
2. Explore an internship with a preservation organization. Here are some ideas of where to start:
- Become a summer intern with the SHPO.
- Inquire about internships at PCT.
3. Attend a local Historic District commission meeting to gain awareness of the regulatory processes and local preservation efforts.
4. Reach out to the Friends of the State Archaeologist and NAHAC to learn more about their annual summertime volunteer and field school programs.
5. There are live and virtual preservation conferences offered by state and national organizations, offering a great variety of learning experiences.
I am interested in a job in historic preservation.
1. Find all the accredited historic preservation programs and internship opportunities through the National Council for Preservation Education.
2. Several organizations post jobs (don’t forget to check non-profit websites too!):
- PreserveNet Job Listings
- National Preservation Partners Network job board
- Job Openings | National Trust for Historic Preservation
- CT League of Museums
- National Council on Public History
5. Youth Employment Cultural Resources Youth Employment Programs – Telling All Americans’ Stories (U.S. National Park Service)
6. Internships and Fellowships Internships & Fellowships – Heritage Documentation Programs (U.S. National Park Service)
I am interested in volunteering in historic preservation.
1. Look for a local historic preservation group to work with, like PCT.
2. Reach out to the Friends of the State Archaeologist and NAHAC to learn more about their annual summertime volunteer and field school programs.
3. Volunteer with the National Park Service
4. Explore joining your local historic District commission.
I am interested in the preservation trades.
1. Check out the new Campaign for Historic Trades and TradesUp in Connecticut.
2. CT Museum of Culture and History have a traditional Southern New England Apprenticeship Program.
3. There is a comprehensive list of programs all over the country on the ACHP’s website: Traditional Trades Training Programs & Resources | Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.
4. Get updates from the Archaeological Society of CT – Archaeological Society of Connecticut
Be Inspired!
Stay connected with PCT to hear about upcoming events.
Sign up for webinars with the National Preservation Partners Network or other preservation groups.