Charles “Gus” Potter’s story begins not with a grand plan but with gentle encouragement from his uncle, a professor at a small New Jersey college.
It was the kind of casual suggestion that could have easily been ignored.
“Why not try health physics?” Potter, a Certified Health Physicist (CHP), was asked. “You can get a good job in that field.”
Fresh out of high school and unsure of his future, Potter took the advice. He declared health physics as his major at Trenton State College, now called The College of New Jersey.
To his surprise, he quickly discovered a deep passion for the field.
His decision would lead him to become a cornerstone of the health physics community, a mentor to countless aspiring professionals and a respected leader whose influence continues to shape the industry.
Here’s how Potter, a senior scientist at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico, continues to inspire individuals pursuing certification as a CHP.
Falling Into Health Physics: A Fortunate Discovery
Potter didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming a health physicist. Like many in the field, his path was unplanned.
Encouraged by his uncle, he began taking health physics courses and quickly found himself captivated.
“I hadn’t started on another path before choosing health physics,” Potter recalls. “I declared it as my major, started taking classes, and realized I loved it.”
Unlike others who may have shifted gears to find their calling, Potter embraced health physics from the beginning. His journey stands as a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and exploring new fields with an open mind.
The Path to Certification: Rigorous but Rewarding
It wasn’t until graduate school at the University of Massachusetts Lowell that Potter first heard about certification.
His professors offered a short course on certification, and he began to see it as a natural next step in his career.
The certification process, however, was no easy feat.
Potter vividly remembers preparing for the grueling six-hour Part II exam. “I studied two days a week from January until the exam,” he recalls. “It was the hardest test I’ve ever taken in my life.”
Despite his natural aptitude for test-taking, the exam pushed him to his limits. Yet, when he passed, the sense of accomplishment was unparalleled.
“If I can get through that test, I can do pretty much anything,” Potter said.
Potter also encourages others not to be deterred by initial setbacks. “I’ve had friends who took the test two or three times, even as many as seven,” he says. “Each attempt is part of the learning process, and the reward at the end is worth it.”
The Transformative Power of Being a CHP
Certification marked a turning point in Potter’s career.
As one of the few CHPs at Sandia National Laboratories, Potter quickly became a respected figure within his organization.
“It didn’t drastically change my day-to-day responsibilities, but it significantly enhanced the respect I received from colleagues,” he explains. “And yes, it came with a nice raise.”
Beyond financial rewards, certification provided Potter with greater opportunities and a deep sense of personal achievement.
“Certification gives you self-confidence and credibility,” he says. “It’s a symbol of your expertise and commitment to excellence.”
Adapting to a Changing Field
Over the decades, the field of health physics has undergone significant changes.
For instance, early in Potter’s career, the focus was on reactor decommissioning. But that work declined. When it did, health physics experienced a temporary drop in demand.
However, the resurgence of nuclear power and the increasing importance of radiation source security and emergency response have revitalized the profession.
“When I started, radiation source security and emergency response weren’t significant parts of health physics,” he says. “Now they are central to what we do, and they’re even reflected in the certification exam.”
Potter highlights the renewed interest in nuclear power as a response to climate change and the push for decarbonization.
“Until nuclear was back on the table, some people didn’t take the conversation about clean energy seriously,” he says. “Now, nuclear power is recognized as a critical part of our energy future.”
Overcoming Changes in the Profession
Despite its resurgence, health physics faces significant challenges.
One major issue is the shortage of CHPs.
Employers sometimes hire individuals with general science degrees and provide on-the-job training, but Potter warns of the risks involved.
“Radiation protection is not an area where you want to cut corners,” he says. “Hiring a certified professional ensures safety and compliance, which are non-negotiable in our field.”
Potter also addresses the perception that hiring CHPs is too expensive.
“Yes, certified professionals may cost more upfront, but the value they bring far outweighs the expense,” Potter says. “Skimping on radiation safety can lead to catastrophic consequences.”
Mentorship and Recognition: A Legacy of Service
For Potter, the greatest rewards of his career have come from his contributions to the field and the recognition of his peers.
Over the past 25 years, he has actively supported the American Board of Health Physics (ABHP) and American Academy of Health Physics (AAHP), serving on boards and as president, as a fellow, mentoring aspiring CHPs and contributing to the certification process.
His efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Davis Award, the McAdams Award and recognition as a Distinguished Member of the AAHP.
“To be recognized by your peers is incredibly meaningful,” he says. “It’s a testament to the relationships you’ve built and the impact you’ve made. These awards remind me why I’ve dedicated so much of my life to this field.”
Words of Advice for Aspiring CHPs
For those considering certification, Potter offers a mix of practical advice and encouragement.
“The process is tough, no doubt about it,” he says. “But the rewards—financial, professional and personal—make it worth the effort.”
He emphasizes perseverance.
“Even if you don’t pass (the exam) on the first try, don’t give up,” Potter says. “Each attempt is a step closer to success. And when you do pass, the sense of accomplishment is unmatched.”
As the world faces pressing energy challenges and technological advancements, the need for skilled health physicists is greater than ever, Potter says.
Whether you’re a student exploring career paths or a professional considering certification, now is the time to elevate your career and maximize your potential. Apply to become a CHP today!