Message from Michael L. Parks, MD, FAAOS, Chair, Committee Appointment Program Committee and First Vice-President

The leadership of the AAOS relies on our members to serve by applying for volunteer positions on one of the many AAOS councils, committees, and advisory boards. It is our goal to have as many of our members involved in the governance structure as possible. We especially welcome any members who have not been previously involved. Our goal is to encourage broad participation across the membership and to align members with appropriate positions based on their experience and expertise. This message is intended to assist you in deciding which position(s) to apply for.

Selecting the Right Position

First, the most important factor is to apply for a position in your area(s) of interest and experience. This will help us capitalize on your unique expertise and allow you to contribute to the committee’s activities at a high level, but it will also allow your energy and enthusiasm to be best utilized. It is helpful that your experience and expertise be consistent with the position of interest.

Guidance for First-Time and Early-Career Applicants

If this is the first time that you are applying for a position and you are early in your career, we would suggest that you consider applying for an opening on an evaluation committee reporting to the Education Assessments and Examinations Committee. These committees are involved in preparing our examinations, including the OITE, Self-Assessment Exams, etc. You may also want to consider applying for committees reporting to the Central Program Committee and Central Instructional Courses Committee.

Committee and Council Leadership Roles

If you are interested in a position as a committee chair, it is important to have had previously served on that committee or on a committee in a related area. This experience and expertise will prepare you to assume a more important leadership position.

Also, the positions on a council are predominantly filled by individuals who have previously and successfully served on committees within that respective council.

Candidates for council chair positions are interviewed by the Presidential Line and consideration is given to members who have been active on the committees or workgroups that are part of the council.

Communicating Your Interest

When you apply for a position, we suggest that you consider contacting the current chair of that particular governance unit so he or she will be aware of your interest and expertise. E-mail is generally the best initial method of contact.

Time Commitment and Eligibility

When reviewing vacancy postings in the CAP System, please note the time commitment involved for service on the committee. Please note both the actual commitment in the form of meetings, conference calls, and reading/preparation as well as the length of the term (2 years, 3 years, etc.). It is essential for committee members to commit the time necessary to fulfill their roles as a committee, council, or advisory group member.

AAOS committee service is generally limited to one committee at a time, but there are some exceptions to this rule. If you are currently serving on a committee, you may not be eligible for a new committee appointment based on your current term of service. If you are unsure of your eligibility, check the Committee Appointment Regulations and Procedures on the CAP website, or e-mail Yasseline Knoke at knoke@aaos.org. 

In summary, we strongly encourage all of our members who have an interest in contributing to the mission and vision of AAOS to apply for roles in our governance units, and the goal of the CAP Committee is to appoint the most qualified and committed members for these position as well as involving as many new members as possible. We frequently have many more qualified applicants than available positions for most assignments, so we encourage you to reapply if you do not receive an appointment with your first application.

As Chair of the Committee Appointment Program Committee this year, I would be happy to hear from you if have any questions, concerns, or suggestions about service to the AAOS. Thank you very much for your interest in AAOS activities and willingness to consider volunteer service. My email is parksm@hss.edu.

Sincerely,

Michael L. Parks, MD, FAAOS