BENEFITS OF ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT IN PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: EXAMPLES FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GEOSCIENCE TEACHERS (NAGT) TEACHER EDUCATION DIVISION (TED)

Active engagement with professional organizations provide diverse tangible benefits including dynamic opportunities for learning and leadership. From local community service to international presentations, professional organizations facilitate networking, publishing, and public good. Members in the Teacher Education Division (TED) of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) are currently involved in: (1) Earth Sciences Methods Forum to share expertise on how to better teach our future Earth Sciences educators; (2) Committee work to actively improve Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the geosciences community, and Advocacy to safeguard Earth Sciences education in K-16 classrooms; (3) Earth Science Teacher Leader development with a forthcoming awards program based on recently-published standards; and (4) Outreach to and liaison with other professional organizations to leverage mutual aims.

Networking with colleagues within and across disciplines will benefit your career path, however it evolves. Mentors and contacts help advance collaboration among academia, for-profit corporations, and non-profit organizations. Direct applications are myriad, starting with publishing your own work in professional organization journals. Bring your enthusiasm for and experience in Earth Sciences education by leading activities in K-12 events, volunteering with informal education venues, or assisting corporate training. Make a social impact with environmental stewardship or civic leadership such as serving on a school board. Build community bridges with local start-ups willing to offer internships/externships to your students. Leverage collegial relationships across professional organizations for greater impact.

Keep a running CV frequently updated with your accomplishments. Remind your current employer of your service to them, to professional organizations, and to the larger community, especially if you are seeking a tenure recommendation or other career advancement. Talk with your colleagues in other disciplines if you feel a change is coming. Professional organizations often have career services to help you explore or move to other opportunities.