Rencontrez Tara Hargreaves

Tell us a little bit about yourself—work life, family life, or any fun facts about yourself!

I began my radiation safety career at the Radiation Safety Institute of Canada, where I worked for 17 years, training radiation safety officers, X-ray Safety Officers, and other workers.

My family moved to Guelph a couple of years ago, which led me to my current position at the University of Guelph, where I manage the radiation safety and biosafety programs.

On a personal note, I live with my husband, son, two dogs, and two cats. I go on walks through a forest every morning, and I love to take pictures of the wildlife, including deer, porcupines, bunnies, snakes, and lots of birds. I have too many hobbies: knitting, crocheting, calligraphy, and whatever else strikes my fancy.

When did you join CRPA, and why have you continued to be a member?

I joined CRPA as soon as I had two years of experience working in radiation safety. That was in 2006, and I’ve been a member ever since!

In 2016, I became a registered radiation safety professional (RRSP), a qualification that is great to have on my resume and has connected me to a supportive group of other CRPA(R)s.[1]

CRPA is the way to connect with those working in radiation safety across Canada. Being a member means being a part of this wonderful and welcoming community. I couldn’t imagine not being a member.

The association provides so many benefits—the Bulletin keeps me aware of what is going on with radiation safety in Canada, the professional development helps me expand my knowledge, and the sessions organized by CRPA with CNSC help me stay aware of the regulations and enforcement.

I also look forward to the annual CRPA conference. It’s not only a great way to stay informed about what is going on in the radiation safety world, but it is also a time to see familiar faces, catch up with friends, and have fun.

I would feel rather alone if I weren’t a member of CRPA.

Why did you decide to become a director on the CRPA board?

I’ve been a member of CRPA for so long that I decided it was time to get more involved and give a little back to this community that I love being part of. So few members run for a position on the board and I thought, if someone like me, a long-time CRPA member and an RRSP, doesn’t run, who will? I look forward to, hopefully, bringing some new ideas to the table and offering my services to the members.

You’ve probably been to at least one board meeting by now—is it what you expected?

It’s better! The other board members are great people and so easy to get along with. My first meeting was just an introductory meeting, so I look forward to getting together with everyone again soon.

Are there any specific goals or projects that you’d like to take the lead on as a board member over the next two years?

I’ve taken on the role of director of Communication and, in this role, I would like to see how much I can increase the recognition of CRPA. I’d like to explore new partnerships that will expand CRPA’s reach and hopefully increase membership numbers.

These are still early days for me and I’m sure the ideas will start to flow. I invite members to reach out to me with any thoughts or ideas they have about ways to appeal to new members and raise the profile of CRPA.

Where would you like to see the association five years from now?

In five years, I’m hoping the CRPA membership will be significantly larger than it is now. It would be great to see radiation professionals from all sectors represented among our members.

Is there anything else you’d like to say to our Bulletin readers, both members and non-members?

To all non-members, I’d like to say, JOIN US! The membership fee is low and the benefits are many. If you are involved in radiation safety in Canada, this is the organization to be part of.

To the members, I’d like to say, thank you for being part of CRPA and for helping to make it what it is. I ask you all to reach out to me if you have any ideas or suggestions. This is your CRPA, and your input is valued. So, please get in touch with me if you have any thoughts about what CRPA should be doing or the direction it should be going. I can’t guarantee we can implement everything suggested, but I will guarantee that I will read every email and bring every idea forward for discussion.

 

[1] The CRPA(R) designation is the highest level of competency for radiation safety professionals recognized by CRPA at the Canadian level. To find out more, visit the CRPA website, or read the June 2020 CRPA(R) Prep article in this Bulletin.

 

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