Meet Bruce Sutton: The Operations Manager at Rubicon Heritage

We are pleased to introduce Bruce Sutton, our dedicated Operations Manager at Rubicon Heritage. Bruce brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, having spent over two decades immersed in the world of archaeology.  His extensive experience has made him an essential part of our team, where he plays a key role in overseeing the planning and management of fieldwork activities.
Bruce’s hands-on approach and deep understanding of archaeological practices ensure that each project runs smoothly from start to finish. He guides our team through the challenges of excavation, applying his keen eye for detail and commitment to preserving history. ​
​Whether it's coordinating complex logistics, supporting our field staff, or implementing the latest methodologies, Bruce’s leadership ensures our projects are executed to the highest standard, with every discovery contributing meaningfully to our shared heritage.

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The Excitement of Discovery
When asked about his favourite aspect of the job, Bruce shares, “The feeling you get when you hold a recently excavated object for the first time, whether it’s hundreds or thousands of years old.” This sense of connection to the past is what drives Bruce’s passion for archaeology and inspires his daily work.

A Journey Rooted in Passion
Bruce’s archaeological career began after graduating university in 1998, but his interest in the field was sparked much earlier. “Probably Indiana Jones,” he admits with a smile, acknowledging the cliché that many in the field can relate to. His teenage years spent exploring both fictional adventures and historical literature laid the foundation for his future endeavours in archaeology.

Unearthing Historical Treasures
Among Bruce’s most cherished experiences are the excavations in Mayo, Killaloe, and Macroom, where he unearthed wooden objects preserved in peat. The process of revealing a 3,000 to 4,000-year-old artifact is a thrilling experience. Bruce recalls the moment he cleaned a find, uncovering a beautifully preserved axe facet. “I remember finding one with a signature mark near Macroom recently and thinking, 'someone needed to sharpen their axe.'” These moments of connection to history underscore the importance of archaeological work.

Advice for Aspiring Archaeologists
For those considering a career in archaeology, Bruce offers straightforward advice: “College isn’t going to prepare you for working in archaeology. It’s tough physical work in some challenging weather conditions.” However, he emphasizes that the rewards of discovering and recording history far outweigh the difficulties. Bruce encourages young archaeologists to embrace the challenges, knowing that every excavation brings unique opportunities for learning and growth.

A Historical Treasure for His Home
If Bruce could claim ownership of any historical artifact, he would choose the iconic Rosetta Stone. “It would look nice in the corner of my living room,” he muses, reflecting on the profound historical significance of such a piece.

The Rosetta Stone is an ancient artifact that helped decode Egyptian hieroglyphs, featuring inscriptions in three scripts: Greek, Demotic, and hieroglyphic.

Bruce Sutton exemplifies the spirit of discovery and dedication at Rubicon Heritage. His commitment to unearthing and preserving history ensures that every excavation contributes to our understanding of the past. We invite you to join us in celebrating his passion and expertise as we continue our archaeological journey.