Dawn Wambold Piche

Dawn Piche Wambold, a proud Métis woman with ancestral roots tied to the Red Deer and Bow River regions of Alberta, is an archaeologist dedicated to uncovering and sharing stories of the past through a contemporary lens. Dawn’s career is rooted in her Métis heritage and a deep respect for the belongings and places of those before us. Dawn describes her work as “Ancestor Work,” going above and beyond standard practice to honor the stories and lives of those who came before us.

Dawn’s journey to a career in archaeology has been a journey in itself. Initially pursuing engineering, she worked as a materials specialist and welding inspector, spending over two decades in oil and gas industries, including roles at Weatherford and TC Energy. Despite finding fulfillment in the fine details of this work, her passion for history and archaeology called her back and she returned to school. Balancing full-time work and family responsibilities, Dawn successfully completed her undergraduate degree in anthropology, specializing in archaeology. 

Continually inspired by Métis history through archaeology, Dawn pursued a master’s degree and is now working toward her PhD. Her research explores the relationships of the Métis between the people and the landscapes of Southern Alberta. For Dawn, her work is not just academic—it’s personal. It’s about reclaiming lost stories, rebuilding connections, and honoring the strength of her ancestors through learning and sharing her findings.

Dawn is passionate about teaching and sharing the Métis perspective in archaeology. She takes a unique approach by “visiting” with belongings rather than analyzing them, respecting the stories they hold and nurturing a connection to the past. Through presentations to archaeology companies and community members, she advocates for this perspective, demonstrating how Métis archaeology can be a bridge between the past and the present.

Dawn’s relationship with Forum Community Relations, and Anne Harding, is one she says she holds dear to her heart, describing Anne as someone who truly “walks the talk” when it comes to working in the Indigenous Relations space. Dawn is grateful for the meaningful partnership, not just as a colleague but as someone she deeply admires for her kindness, understanding, and the way she champions others. Dawn feels grateful to work alongside Anne in a partnership built on trust, shared values, and a genuine connection.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Dawn is deeply connected to her Métis identity and community. She participates in Métis Mixers, building connections with other Métis professionals and supporting their businesses. In her personal time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and daughter (who is also an archaeologist).

Dawn’s connection between the Red Deer and Bow Rivers is integral to her story. Her family has lived and homesteaded in the area for generations, and she feels deeply connected to the land and waters that have sustained her ancestors. Through her work, Dawn seeks to inspire others to see archaeology not just as a science but as a way to honor and reconnect with heritage. Through her ancestral connections and dedication to her work, Dawn is inspired by a future where Métis voices and stories are at the forefront of understanding history, and she is hopeful that by understanding the past, we can move forward together, in a good way.