Riding into 2026: CRPA Harnesses the Fire Horse Spirit

Happy New Year radiation protection professionals! Did anyone else blink and suddenly find that 2025 was behind us? I am reflecting on this notion while I write this message as your interim editor. As we have done a complete rotation around the sun and no other CRPA members have leaped at the opportunity to lead the Bulletin, I guess readers are stuck with me.

So here we are leaping into 2026, the lunar Year of the Horse, specifically the Fire Horse, which combines the fire elements of transformation, passion, and power, with the symbolism of dynamic energy and strength of the horse. This is aptly significant for CRPA this year, as the Fire Horse represents passion, momentum, and determination—core values of our association and your board of directors, which I will explain below.

It is said that fire sparks creation. CRPA members are all enthusiastic about our profession, and the members that sit on our countless committees have the additional spark and passion that drive the operations of our association. Whether it is making recruitment efforts, offering professional development, or regularly reviewing our bylaws and trying to make change for the betterment of our future members and young professionals, it all comes down to the people.

One particular group of people that have been striving for innovation and collaboration are the naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) experts. Members of the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST) have actively engaged with CRPA for many years, and both their numbers and their voices are growing. We all know the importance of radon and its effects on our health. This past year, our association has gained momentum on the NORM front by successfully supporting two new working groups: the NORM Working Group and the CRPA/CARST Working Group. Read more about their work and terms of reference by visiting our committees page.

The unwavering determination of our people is also finally being realized, as we get ready to hold the first joint CRPA and CARST conference this spring. Registration for the symposium in Saskatoon is now open. The scientific program and tour opportunities will definitely have something for everyone. Check out the local organizing committee’s invitation for more information.

Finally, our members continue to find ways to keep CRPA and Canadian radiation protection (RP) professionals relevant at the international level. We have set up memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with sister organizations to continue being the expert voice of Canadian RP professionals, to help develop mutual processes and applications, and to exchange knowledge and expertise in policy guidance. In other words—or, more aptly, in Stéphane Jean-François’ words—we are family. Let’s keep this energy galloping, just like the mighty Horse.

Happy reading.