I had an interesting encounter at work this week. We had the annual inspection for the emergency generator in one of our buildings. The inspector who came out was the same person installed it almost 30 years ago! This guy knew the system inside and out. When he was giving us a refresher course and showing us the specific features of the system, he began asking me questions about my familiarity with the electrical components of it. I was taken back by just how much I don't know or remember. My specific electrical knowledge has atrophied an incredible amount since last year. It is a little disheartening considering I am supposed to be a Certified Journeyman. Of course, this is one way of looking at it.
It's easy to get lost in that way of thinking. I have lost knowledge, but I can't expect to remember what I don't practice. The more I spend in this kind of job, the more my knowledge and skill set will change. It is a trade off really. One example, I lose specific technical factoids and replace them with how to diffuse a situation by calming down an upset resident. Just because I have formal training in a certain field, does not mean that it is what I am meant to do for the rest of my life. Sometimes life hands you opportunities to explore other avenues available to you. If the price is not remembering everything, I am happy to pay it. No one can take the education or experience I received away from me completely.
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