Changes to NA-YGN Membership Status!!

NA-YGN is a vibrant, growing organization. Since it's establishment in 1999, NA-YGN membership has soared to more than 650 members. More than 250 new members have joined just in the past year! Because of this phenomenal growth, it is the role of the NA-YGN Core to assure that the structure and rules of the organization are in line with the membership of the organization.

When established, NA-YGN membership was defined as individuals age 35 and under working throughout the fields of nuclear science & technology (although honorary alumni have always been welcomed and encouraged to join the organization!). This age distinction was set to offer young professionals an opportunity to establish themselves in the field, and to take part in an organization specifically designed to meet their needs in professional development and in the development of public information activities. NA-YGN provides a unique opportunity for young professionals to become involved in leadership roles that introduce them to the professional community.

NA-YGN leadership recognizes that some individuals may not have entered into the nuclear field fresh out of college, or may have taken a non-traditional path to their current position, placing them in a "young professional" type of scenario in regard to experience, despite the fact that they may be over 35. Since the intent of the membership age criteria was not to alienate these professionals, some changes are being made to the existing membership structure.

Although NA-YGN officers will still adhere to the criteria that they be age 35 or under at the time of election, assuring that the leadership of NA-YGN remains in the hands of the younger generation of nuclear professionals, the definition of a 'young generation' member of NA-YGN is being adjusted.

An individual will now qualify for 'young generation' membership (including full voting rights in elections and all other NA-YGN activities) for up to 10 years or until age 36, whichever comes LAST. For instance, an individual becoming a member at age 22 will be a full member until he or she turns 36, at which point he or she becomes an alumni member. However, an individual that first becomes an NA-YGN member at age 33 will now be a full member for 10 years, until age 43 in this case. If another individual has never been an NA-YGN member and is over 35, he or she can also become a member!! We feel as though 10 years is sufficient time for a young professional (whether young in age or in experience in the nuclear field) to become established in the field and to 'graduate' to involvement in the appropriate technical professional society.

(Note: The age requirement for NA-YGN officers applies only at the international level - local groups that have designated officers may define the requirements for these officers per the local chapter rules.)

Pass this on to your colleagues! If you have colleagues that are not currently members of NA-YGN who now qualify based on the changes that are now being applied, please encourage them to join!

Questions? Let us know!