My favourite definition of the term “profession” comes from my 20-year old, taped, dog-eared copy of the Concise Oxford Dictionary: “vocation or calling, esp. one that involves some branch of advanced learning or science.”

With this definition, there can be no doubt that technical communication is a profession. While practioners are not required to meet universal production standards or minimum educational requirements in order to qualify, they generally have a high level of advanced learning, and solid knowledge of the science of communicating in today’s world.

I’ve always felt that writing was my “calling” and been partial to science. When it came to technology, I was ambiguous, and still am to some extent. However, I take comfort that there is a niche for me in this talented and diverse group of professional writers that comprises the West Coast Chapter of the STC.