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Why GSA Membership
Is Important to Me

Jeff Rubin (right) with Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR).

Ijoined GSA as a new graduate student on a “conven-
tional” geoscience career path. That path has been
distinctly unconventional, and I’ve stayed with GSA
because I consider membership itself valuable. As an
emergency manager with a large fire district in Oregon,
I apply and “translate” geoscience information for my
co-workers, the public, and policymakers. I’ve appreciated
that GSA has had room for me, and that I could contribute
regardless (or because) of my job title.

My four years on the Geology and Public Policy
Committee (GPPC), including one as chair, allowed me to
be part of, and learn from, a motivated, opinionated, and
productive group. We were in anything but lockstep, but
always were able to move from discussion to decision, even
on controversial topics—and there were plenty. Between
GPPC and my time on the Geology and Society Division
Management Board, I’ve developed an ongoing interest in
the business side of GSA, and am honored to be part of our
strategic planning process.

Whether via GPPC, Congressional Science Visits Day,
Climate Science Day on the Hill, or just periodic interaction
with GSA’s staff in D.C., our policy programs have made
me a more effective policy voice—not just in D.C., but in
Oregon. Our growing commitment to public policy and
science communication is emblematic of the role that we
can play—as an organization and as individuals. I see my
continuing involvement at GSA as a good way to stay
connected with geoscience and to share some of its
applications.

Jeff Rubin
Emergency Manager, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue
GSA Member since 1983
GSA Fellow since 2016

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