Answer to Question #164 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Q

I have recently graduated with a BSc, have 15 years of experience in radiation health safety, a National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists (NRRPT) certificate, and six years of working with accelerator injectors or sources. What is the best route for me to become an HP?

A

"Becoming an HP" has several components. These are (1) gaining the knowledge and experience to perform health physics work, (2) establishing and maintaining your involvement in the profession through membership in the Health Physics Society, and (3) finding employment in the field. It appears you have fully satisfied the first component. The second, membership in the Society, is the natural next step. Again, with your brief description it appears you can qualify as a Plenary (i.e., full voting) member due to your National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists Certification, degree, and work experience. You can apply on the HPS website or contact the Membership Director, Heide Rohland, at the Secretariat (703-790-1745) for an application. Membership in the Society will then be a major help in achieving the third component—a job. As a member you have access to the Employment Center in the "Members Only" area of the website and can get in touch with all HPs in the United States through the Membership Directory, which will be one of your benefits.

Gen Roessler, Editor HPS website