Preservation and Skills Training

Duration:

6 minutes, 37 seconds

Participants and mentors in the PAST Program talk about their experiences and the benefits of this year-long program.

NPS / Kristi Rugg

The Preservation and Skills Training (PAST) Program trains NPS maintenance employees in the proper preservation, care, and maintenance of our historic assets within the National Park System. This program teaches participants how to view, approach and apply maintenance work on historic assets using proper preservation techniques. 

Who can apply?

The PAST program is open to permanent, full-time, field-based maintenance employees in the National Park Service. Preference will be given to permanent employees, but employees in term positions are welcome to apply. You do not need to have a background in preservation to participate in the program, just a desire to learn.

How to apply?

• Preservation and Skills Training Program on the Common Learning Portal
• DOI Talent registration page

Testimonials

Hear from participants and mentors from the PAST Program.

Duration:

1 minute, 23 seconds

Alana speaks about her experience in the Preservation and Skills Training Program.

Duration:

1 minute, 58 seconds

Garrett talks about his experience as a participant in the Preservation and Skills Training Program.

Duration:

2 minutes, 47 seconds

Mike talks about his experience as a participant in the Preservation and Skills Training Program.

Duration:

1 minute, 46 seconds

Jean talks about her experience as a mentor for the Preservation and Skills Training Program.

FAQs

What is the PAST Program?

Since 1993, the PAST Program has proudly trained NPS WG maintenance employees in the proper preservation, care, and maintenance of our treasured historic assets within the National Park System. Specifically designed to help NPS maintenance employees grow into preservation mentors of tomorrow, the PAST Program is intended to be a transformative experience for how you view and approach maintenance work on historic assets. Through a series of formal learning opportunities, mentorship, and hands-on workshops, you will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of historic preservation while improving and applying your trade skills on active NPS projects.  

What is the cost to participate?

HPTC covers tuition and travel costs for PAST participants. Individual park units will pay employee(s) salary for the duration of the program. Because the program requires 4-5 weeks of travel with the possibility of overtime, all applicants must have supervisory approval before applying.

Who is eligible to apply for PAST?

The PAST program is open to full-time, wage grade (WG) 5-9 maintenance employees in the National Park Service.  Interested applicants are not expected to have a formal background in preservation, just a desire to learn and work hard!

Is travel required?

Yes. There will be a mixture of in-person and virtual training components, with three separate workshop and formal training trips planned in the spring, summer and fall of 2022 (final locations and dates are not yet announced). HPTC staff will be monitoring COVID-19 concerns and travel restrictions closely to ensure the safety of all participants, instructors, and support staff.

What are the benefits of PAST?

PAST trainees will gain a foundation of preservation knowledge and skills to apply directly to maintenance projects at their home parks. PAST graduates are also expected to pass along their knowledge and skills to interns and colleagues.  

Contact

Questions? Contact our team at [e-mail]

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