PAAC volunteers carrying field gear to site

Public Archaeology

Public Archaeology & Avocational Archaeological Certification

The Program for Avocational Archaeological Certification (PAAC) is a public archaeology & education program offered by the Office of the State Archaeologist of Colorado (OSAC). Initially established by OSAC and the Colorado Archaeological Society (CAS), the program has granted certifications since 1978. PAAC allows anyone with an interest in the archaeological record of Colorado to receive training outside of an academic degree program.

The Program for Avocational Archaeological Certification (PAAC) trains individuals to become active stewards of Colorado's archaeological resources.

This statewide program offers:

  • Learning: Expand your knowledge of Colorado archaeology through engaging and enriching online and in-person programming.
  • Training: Gain skills in recording, preserving, and advocating for cultural resources.
  • Experience: Participate in research, public outreach, and site stewardship.
  • Community: Join a network of dedicated individuals passionate about preserving Colorado's past.

Interested in joining PAAC? Sign up now!

Register for a PAAC workshop!

Select an event in the calendar or click the links below to register for an upcoming PAAC workshop!

Upcoming Workshops

From Rocks to Tools: Basic Lithic Analysis Workshop

Instructor: Sarah Allaun, Assistant State Archaeologist, Office of Archaeology & Historic Preservation, History Colorado

Description: Ready to move beyond "just rocks" and be able to interpret the archaeological record? This hands-on workshop is designed for participants of all levels who want to build confidence in the fundamentals of chipped stone analysis. 

Across five focused hours, you'll move from core concepts to practical application. The morning session introduces raw material identification, the mechanics of stone tool production, and how to recognize key flake attributes. In the afternoon, you'll apply these skills in an Integrated Hands-On Lab, working directly with real chipped stone assemblages. You'll practice classifying debitage and formal tools, learn standard measurement and recording techniques, and explore how lithic data relate to human behavior, technological choices, and cultural patterns. 

Whether you're new to lithics or looking to strengthen your analytical toolkit, this workshop offers a practical, approachable path into the world of chipped stone analysis.  

Ask an Archaeologist Video Series

Have you ever wondered how we identify archaeological sites? Or what actually qualifies as an artifact in Colorado? Or what happens when someone accidentally finds something historic?

The Office of Archaeology & Historic Preservation is pleased to announce a new educational video series, “Ask an Archaeologist,” and we want to hear your most pressing questions about the science, ethics, and careers behind our state’s past.

We can answer your questions about:

  • Colorado’s archaeological sites and history
  • How archaeology works
  • Laws, ethics, and site protection
  • Careers in archaeology
  • What to do if you find an artifact
  • Common misconceptions and issues of preservation


Please submit your questions using the link below for a chance to have them featured in an upcoming segment.

Submit your Question to Ask an Archaeologist→

Request your PAAC Transcript!

Already a PAAC participant? Have you taken PAAC classes in the past? Request your PAAC transcript to see your current progress in the program! 

Request Transcript

Self-Report PAAC Credit!

Don't miss out on PAAC credit! Did you attend a seminar or watch an online archaeology lecture? Claim your 0.5 credit hours for each qualifying lecture by filling out our quick self-report form. Update your progress now!

Self-Report PAAC Credit for participation in online & in-person events

Self-Report PAAC Credit for participation in professionally-led archaeological field projects