Throughout different phases of my life, there have been times when I was trying to find my place—whether in a new role, a new organization or a new season of life. Those experiences taught me a great deal about myself, the organizations I was part of and how I wanted to contribute. 

Finding your place within ASSP can feel much the same. We come from different industries, represent different career stages and have varying amounts of time to volunteer. Engagement is never one-size-fits-all. It takes time to learn the organization, discover the opportunities available and decide how you want to get involved.

Last month, I shared about my own ASSP journey and the value membership has brought to my career. This month, I would like to focus on engagement because my hope is that every member finds a place where they can connect, contribute and grow. One of ASSP’s greatest strengths is that it offers opportunities for every stage of your professional journey.

Getting involved brings tremendous benefits. You can expand your professional network, continue learning, develop leadership skills and become part of a community that genuinely wants to help its members succeed. These have certainly been some of the greatest rewards of my own ASSP experience. I have met incredible people, learned from experts across our profession and found a community where it is perfectly acceptable to say “I don’t know” because someone is always willing to share their knowledge and experience.

Remember, engagement does not have to begin with a leadership role. Some of the most meaningful journeys start with simply showing up, asking questions and getting to know fellow members. Those small first steps often lead to opportunities you never imagined.

So, how can you get engaged? I like to think about it in four ways: Connect, learn, contribute and shape the future.

Connect by joining your local chapter, a common interest group or a practice specialty. These communities allow you to build relationships with professionals who share your interests, industry or career path.

Learn by attending a professional development conference, participating in webinars or enrolling in training courses. These opportunities help you stay current on emerging issues while learning practical strategies you can apply in your own workplace.

Contribute by writing for Professional Safety, presenting at a conference, teaching a course, serving as a mentor or mentee or volunteering in one of our many leadership roles. Whether at the chapter, region, practice specialty, common interest group or Society level, there are countless ways to make a difference. If you are not sure where you fit, reach out to me. I would be happy to help you find an opportunity that aligns with your interests and passions.

Shape the future by participating in our advocacy efforts, joining a Standards-­Based User Group or serving on a standards development committee. These opportunities allow you to influence the future of the profession and help improve workplace safety well beyond your own organization.

Last month, I encouraged you to explore the many opportunities ASSP offers. This month, my challenge is even simpler: say yes to getting involved. Attend your first chapter meeting. Register for a webinar. Join a practice specialty. Become a mentor or a mentee. Whatever first step you choose, know that your perspective matters. Our profession is stronger when people from every industry, discipline and career stage share their experiences and ideas.

You do not have to do everything to make an impact. Just start with one opportunity that inspires you. You may be surprised where that first step leads—for your career, your network and our profession. We want you, we need you and together we can level up.