When asked how it is possible that the CSEG has such strong and dedicated members, my response is simply that we are passionate about what we do, and that our passion is infectious. At the 2014 CSPG Honorary Address this past November 17th, I mentioned that when I was younger, discovering a seashell in an outcrop on Calgary’s Nose Hill and pondering its origins was one of the most profound experiences of my life. It was a catalyst for pursuing geophysics as a career, and reveals just how important those moments are to making such a decision. To no surprise, that sentiment was echoed by the speakers, Dr. Scott Tinker (Director, Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas), and Dr. François Therrien (Curator, Royal Tyrrell Museum), as well as fellow geoscientists in attendance. The enthusiasm to share such experiences is common – though unique to each of us in its own way – I still continue to be amazed at the sheer quantity of volunteers within the CSEG and the care and attention we bring to every facet of our society. Volunteerism within the CSEG is regarded as unequaled in the industry.
It has been an absolute pleasure working with Meghan Brown for the past year. Her tact and attention to detail suits her well, and she has done a tremendous job as Director of Communications. Her shoes will be hard to fill… please don’t take that literally. As one of our initiatives, the RECORDER has been successfully streaming topical geophysical and societal content to us, and has been in our mailboxes at the beginning of the month. I’d like to take just a moment and congratulate the RECORDER committee and our Chief Editor, Penny Colton for that success. If it seems as though it would be relatively straightforward to solicit articles, edit, assemble, and print each volume, let me assure you that without the passion and dedication of Penny and every individual voice on the committee, we’d be left RECORDERless. Due, in no small part, to her determination and devotion to the CSEG and the RECORDER, we have asked Penny Colton to accept a staffed position at the CSEG. She continues to be a valuable resource to the society, and we are honoured to have her on board.
This reminds me to comment on the authors who have submitted their ideas for publication, specifically to thank them for sharing their knowledge and insights with us. We communicate our vision and passion by serving on committees, diligently applying our craft in the industry, and in a myriad of other ways. Articles, reports, and columns submitted to the RECORDER are a clear expression of that passion, and the desire to share it with others. It is exciting to have authors push the envelope of our understanding, and our shared enthusiasm. They have consistently made their geophysical verve known, and have nostalgically reminded us of the nascent excitement in our craft. If you have ever thought of contributing to the industry in such a way, I strongly encourage you to be in touch with the RECORDER editors.
In a recent meeting with Digital Media Committee chair, Will McCarthy, we highlighted more opportunities to communicate within the society, and how important it is to capitalize on the vigor of our membership. Doing so will require us to leverage the vision our student members have, and create space for those initiatives to take hold.
I certainly don’t want to forget mentioning that I look forward to working alongside Marko Mah as he steps on the CSEG executive starting this spring. Communication throughout our membership is key to our success. I encourage you to be in touch, provide your input, and help forge a new path ahead.
Share This Column