From TTAP to NPS: Carolyn Currin

While in TTAP, Carolyn worked on a variety of preservation projects at Manassas National Battlefield Park.

NPS / Emma Nostheide

During the summer of 2022, Carolyn Currin completed the Traditional Trades Advancement Program at Manassas National Battlefield Park. Shortly afterwards she became a term NPS employee. We caught up with her to hear about her experience in the program, her background, and her work now as an NPS employee.

When were you a part TTAP and where were you based?

I completed my TTAP term at Manassas National Battlefield Park in the summer of 2022. This is also where I am now working as a historian under the Cultural Resource Department. Our team works to preserve all the buildings and monuments in the park. I am currently working on condition assessments on all our resources and will be working with the team on determining and implementing treatments. My team is also working on our reconstruction of Andrew Redman’s blacksmith shop! Our next step is putting shingles on the roof.

How did you first become interested in historic preservation?

I have always loved history, being outdoors, and working with my hands. The college I attended (University of Mary Washington) offered a degree in Historic Preservation and I jumped at the chance to get involved in this field because it seemed like a great way to combine all those things.

What was one of the coolest projects you worked on in TTAP?

Our biggest project during my TTAP term was the restoration of Thornberry House. This was a great project because of the range of work that needed to be done. My favorite part of the project was the window restoration, but we also worked on repairing and replacing siding and doors. We have been doing a lot of work with linseed oil paint, it has been really cool to learn more about that technique and see the results!

Carolyn worked side-by-side with NPS employees during her time in TTAP.

NPS / Emma Nostheide

How did TTAP influence your career choices?

I was very interested in the National Park Service but was unsure what role I could play within it. Working with Manassas helped me determine my path and confirmed that the National Park Service was a place I could have a future.

How did TTAP help prepare you for your NPS position?

TTAP gave me a lot of exposure to the inner workings of the park service and a better idea of what career paths were available within the preservation field. Being a TTAP intern also allowed me to learn preservation trade skills, such as carpentry, while working on real projects in the field. I am now able to apply those skills to current park projects.

What advice would you give to someone interested in TTAP?

I would encourage those who are interested in TTAP to pursue it! It is a great learning experience. Commit to and pursue learning opportunities for facets of the trades you are interested in. It’s a great time to shadow different jobs and ask lots of questions.

To learn more, visit the Traditional Trades Advancement Program page.