This year’s professional development workshop (PDW) on Classics of Organization and Management Theory explored key approaches to the study of work and was held at the 2022 Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management in Seattle, Washington in the U.S. It represents the fourth edition of a standing series showcasing the enduring relevance of early organizational research. Part 1 covers the first two presentations by Steve Barley on the work of the Chicago School tradition of study on work and occupations, and Gina Dokko on traditions of research into employment and careers.