If you’re nearing retirement age, you don’t have to disappear from AIHA. The association offers emeritus membership for those who are approaching retirement and still want to stay connected to colleagues, be informed on the occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS) field, and have influence on the next generation of professionals.

Jobs in OEHS are expected to increase more than 10 percent by 2026, a rate higher than most other professions, according to the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. With demand growing for OEHS professionals in the workforce, retired professionals can help meet demand and grow the profession that shaped their lives by using their expertise and experience to raise public awareness, mentor younger professionals, and serve on volunteer groups. Emeritus membership in AIHA is a way to live your post-retirement life with purpose and leave a legacy that continues to support the profession.

As an emeritus member, there are many ways to stay engaged in the AIHA community. One example is by remaining active in volunteer groups or technical committees, where your expertise and leadership skills can be invaluable resources.

Mentoring is another way to stay involved with the profession while investing in the next generation. AIHA’s new mentoring program makes it easier than ever before to connect and stay in contact with younger professionals seeking mentorship. Mentoring may also help you keep abreast of the profession’s latest issues and trends. More information on the program is available on the AIHA website.

Do you want to leave a lasting impact on the profession that has shaped your life? Consider supporting the American Industrial Hygiene Foundation by donating funds toward scholarships for deserving OEHS students. These scholarships have enabled talented students to complete their education and have encouraged promising scholars to enter and remain in the OEHS profession.

Emeritus membership is also the easiest way to stay up to date with the latest news and most significant issues in the profession. Emeritus members continue to have access to The Synergist and the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene (JOEH) as well as Catalyst, AIHA’s online member community, where your voice and perspective are needed.

Becoming an emeritus member can help you achieve recognition by the association and the profession. Members who maintain at least 15 years of continuous full membership and contribute significantly to industrial hygiene or related disciplines through research, leadership, publications, education, or service to AIHA are eligible for the prestigious Fellows designation. Limited to no more than five percent of the membership, this honor recognizes service to the organization and the professional practice of OEHS.

However, AIHA understands that income changes upon retirement. Our emeritus membership fees are significantly reduced compared to those of full membership to accommodate for these changes. There are no additional administrative fees for emeritus membership and no additional costs to participating in AIHA’s 48-plus technical committees and volunteer groups.

Becoming an emeritus member can help you stay connected, continue making an impact, and keep yourself informed. Find out more about emeritus membership on the AIHA website.