As an ASSP member for 20 years, I have learned that membership is not one-size-fits-all. My involvement has adapted to my work and life responsibilities, something I value most about our Society. There were times I was highly engaged and times I stepped back because of work or personal commitments. ASSP has always been there when I was ready to reconnect, allowing me to engage in ways that fit my circumstances.
My ASSP journey began at the annual professional development conference. While I enjoyed the conference, I had not yet discovered everything ASSP had to offer. That changed when I was introduced to ASSP’s Black Safety Professionals (formerly Blacks in Safety Excellence) and Women in Safety Excellence common interest groups. I found a welcoming community and mentors who shared their knowledge, encouraged me and helped me navigate a profession I was still learning. Those relationships broadened my perspective and inspired me to help others find their place in the profession.
As I became more established, I expanded my involvement by joining a local chapter, where I stepped into a leadership role simply by showing up, volunteering and being willing to help. I remained active in the common interest groups because they continued to provide meaningful connections and opportunities to learn.
Like many of you, there were seasons in my career when work had to take priority. During those times, my ASSP involvement naturally took a step back. What I appreciate most is that the opportunity to reconnect was always there. When life settled down, I found my way back through ASSP’s Black Safety Professionals, joining a task force that led to additional volunteer opportunities and eventually a committee role. Those experiences deepened my understanding of how ASSP serves our members and advances the profession. Every contribution strengthens our Society.
I share my story because it reflects the value I have found in ASSP membership. Along the way, I strengthened my leadership skills, built lasting relationships and mentored others. Those experiences shaped not only my career but also the way I lead and serve others. They are just a few of the benefits ASSP membership has provided.
Where do your passions lie? What motivates you? Where could you use support or a new opportunity to grow? Whether your interests include standards, advocacy, leadership, networking, education or global connections, ASSP offers opportunities to match your goals. The beauty of membership is that there is no single path. You can engage in the ways that matter most to you and adjust your involvement as your career evolves.
If you have not explored everything ASSP has to offer, I encourage you to start. Get involved with your local chapter, join a common interest group or practice specialty, learn about the work of our committees or simply try something new. Find your place. You may discover lifelong friendships, a new career opportunity, fresh perspectives or strengths you did not know you had. Every connection and volunteer effort strengthens our community.
This month, I challenge you to explore one ASSP opportunity you have never taken advantage of. Maybe it is attending a chapter meeting, joining a webinar, volunteering for a committee or connecting with a member you have never met before. Then connect with me on LinkedIn and tell me about it. I will be sharing my experiences throughout the year, and I would love to hear yours.
Your journey will be different from mine, but I hope it is just as meaningful and rewarding. Our members’ unique experiences, perspectives and talents strengthen both our community and our profession.
Last month, I introduced my theme for the year: level up. This month, I hope you will discover one new way to engage with ASSP. Your next step can enrich your career, strengthen our Society and benefit the profession we all serve. Let’s level up together.