How did you end up working at the Alabama Department of Archives and History?
While finishing my doctoral program at Auburn University, one of my professors directed me towards a Records Management Archivist job posting at the Archives. I was familiar with archivists’ work, but I was trained as an historian and was unsure if I would be a good fit. Researching the position dispelled that concern, and I put in an application. After going through the interview process and accepting the offer, I can definitively say this experience has been the breath of fresh air I didn’t know I needed after a long academic journey. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity, and for that professor encouraging me to take that chance.
What is your role?
I work with both local and state agencies to determine best records management practices in their daily operations. At the local level, I assist local government employees navigate their agency’s Records Disposition Authority, work with them to legally destroy eligible temporary records, and offer guidance for best permanent record storage practices. Working with state agencies involves larger and more long-term projects. These projects involve working with employees across various departments to revise their Records Disposition Authority to better reflect the records created during daily operations, further ensuring the agency practices efficient records management habits.
What is something you enjoy about working in records management?
I enjoy the variety of tasks I encounter on a regular basis. Whether it is communicating with local agents from across the state or researching an agency for a new revision project, there is never a shortage of rabbit holes to find yourself getting lost in.
What do you view as the biggest challenge facing the profession today?
Communication. If we can effectively communicate our role to the public and government agencies, we can hopefully build stronger relationships and gain more supporters for the Archives’ mission.
What are your hobbies when you are not a work?
I am a homebody at heart, so that is where I can most often be found. This typically means spending time with my wife catching up on shows or movies and enjoying whatever new recipes we collectively find. I am also an avid World of Warcraft player and have played consistently since 2008.
For the Record 