AIHce 2012: Redefining Our Future

June 19, 2012
Industrial hygienists and safety professionals from across the nation and beyond have descended upon Indianapolis for the American Industrial Hygiene Conference and Expo (AIHce), which features a theme this year of "Redefining Our Future." At the June 18 opening session, keynote speaker Juan Enriquez discussed how science is transforming how people live and work.

According to Enriquez, co-founder of Synthetic Genomics Inc., the science of genomics – the application of genetic biology to DNA sequencing – is deepening our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of human thoughts, emotions and actions. Enriquez described innovations that make it possible to transform genetic data into binary code and feed it into a computer, which potentially gives humanity the power to control the evolution of its own species.

"This research that seems so extreme, so out there, may end up having more of an impact on your life, and your kids' lives, than any financial crisis," he said.

For the EHS professionals in attendance at the Indiana Convention Center, the word "evolution" applies not only to humankind, but also to a growing and changing profession. This week in Indianapolis, AIHce attendees will attend technical sessions, keynote speeches, networking events and an expo to stay abreast of the latest industry best practices and trends.

The event, hosted by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), also included 57 pre-conference professional development courses prior to the event's opening session.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

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