The strength of the Treatment and Development (T&D) division lies in the talented people who work here and their worldwide network of professional contacts. Over the years it has been their skills and intelligence that have provided elegant, practical, and (with enough effort) simple solutions to complex treatment challenges. They have developed many new treatment approaches and techniques that have been shared with the conservation community through publications, workshops, and internships. These experts allow T&D to understand and treat a wide range of cultural material — sensitively, appropriately, and practically.

Much of T&D’s work is conducted in multidisciplinary teams that include conservators from different specializations. We share the excitement of our pursuit of good solutions with the scientists who are part of our organization. These bonds will strengthen and expand in the future as we forge ahead into new areas to meet client needs.

Demands for conservation services are growing larger than any one organization can satisfy. To meet these demands, conservation professionals in the private and public sector, including T&D, will continue to form more partnerships. Collaborating successfully means rolling up our sleeves and working beside our partners, accepting risk and responsibility.

As the first generation of Canadian conservators approaches retirement, the transference of their knowledge to young conservators is crucial. Only by working with those more experienced can the new generation build on the strength of those who have gone before. T&D will continue to share our knowledge through internships, and will seek the best in the field to staff new positions.

Although the nature of the demand on our services may change in the future, the fundamental need for the preservation of material past will remain — and increase in importance.

We will meet that need.