PURSUIT FOR IMPROVEMENT IN THE SAFETY PROFESSION

While professional development is often associated with obtaining or maintaining professional credentials, the authors believe it is the duty of professionals to share experiences for the benefit of the profession to leave the world a better place. With a variety of options to pursue, consider the context for how this fits in the safety profession. Starting at a macro level, professional development is one part of a three-part cycle for a professional society that continually builds upon itself (Figure 1). One essential part of any cycle is the continuous improvement aspect, which means you are never truly finished and are in constant pursuit of advancement.The first part of the cycle involves the professionals and, in the case of ASSP, includes the members. It is important to start with members, as represented by the Council on Region Affairs (CORA), and our profession, as represented by the Council on Professional Affairs (COPA). Everything we do should help them to better protect people, property and the environment.