Re: The Health Physics Profession

["Kent N. Lambert" <lambert@auhs.edu>]

On 12 Sep 97 at 9:20, Scott D. Kniffin wrote:

> Engineers excluded? Since when am I not a professional? 

Correct me if I'm wrong, but "Professional Engineer" is a designation 
acquired by having a degree in engineering, working for multiple 
years under a Professional Engineer, and passing the 
Engineer In Training (150 multiple choice question test when I took 
it) and the Principles in Practice examinations.  (Does this process 
sound familiar?)  One who has not successfully completed this process 
is not entitled to use the title, "Professional Engineer," or to use 
the PE designation after their name. Nor are they entitled to sign 
and stamp official engineering documents.  

>  How about competence, dedication, and a willingness to
> further yourself in your PROFESSION as proof of being a
> "professional."  

So you are at a public hearing and you want to represent yourself as 
a radiation safety professional, e.g., a health physicist.  
"Competence, dedication, and a willingness to further yourself" can 
be demonstrated to your boss and to your subordinates, but how do 
you demonstrate it to the town official, the concerned citizen, the 
antagonistic activist?   

"Competence, dedication, and a willingness to further yourself" 
are qualities that can be assessed by other people in the same 
field, but not by outsiders.  These qualities are important to your 
boss and your subordinates, but your ability perform your job and 
your ability to represent your field are not the same thing.  
Kent N. Lambert, M.S., CHP
lambert@auhs.edu
Allegheny University of the Health Sciences
Hahnemann Division
Radiation Physics and Safety, MS 106
Broad and Vine Streets
Philadelphia, PA  19102-1192

215-762-8768 (voice)
215-762-7683 (fax)  

Disclaimer:  All opinions are well reasoned and insightful.
Needless to say, they are not (necessarily) the opinions of my employer.