On November 7, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the appointment of seven individuals to the Texas Radiation Advisory Board (TRAB), including one new member and six reappointments. The TRAB's role is to provide counsel to the state on radiation-related topics, evaluate state agency regulations, and monitor programs that oversee radiation. The announcement, which came directly from the Office of the Texas Governor, sets the stage for these individuals to affect policy and safety standards in an area of growing importance and complexity.
Among the appointed, Joelle McRee, D.D.S., from Austin, joins the board with a term expiring in 2027. McRee, an associate periodontist, brings a rich background in both dental practice and scholarly excellence. Her credentials, highlighted by the Governor's office, include affiliations with major dental associations and an educational foundation built at Texas A&M University and UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. The Governor also reappointed Michael Britt, Joe Markham, and four others, extending their terms to 2031, thus ensuring a continuity of experience within the board's ranks.
In their respective fields, the reappointees have notable qualifications and histories of service. Michael Britt of New Braunfels owns a claims and consulting firm and has a substantial career in the insurance industry. With over 24 years under his belt, his business savvy and local engagement, including leadership roles in Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation, stand to benefit TRAB's review processes. Joe Markham, on the other hand, serves the City of Arlington as a fire lieutenant and holds significant positions in the Arlington Professional Fire Fighters and other organizations aimed at service and resource management.
Also appointed is Kenneth "Ken" Peters Ed.D., an experienced nuclear power executive from Granbury, whose educational achievements span from electrical engineering to systems engineering, and finally, a Doctor of Education from Louisiana State University - Shreveport. His industrial expertise and strategic acumen are likely to influence TRAB's regulatory framework. Darlene Metter, M.D., brings a strong medical perspective as a tenured professor. Her extensive list of leadership roles in academic and professional radiological societies speaks volumes. Darshan Sachde, Ph.D., also from Austin, rounds out the reappointments with his senior-level chemical engineering proficiency.
The new and returning members of the Texas Radiation Advisory Board (TRAB) bring expertise in areas including dental health, fire safety, insurance, nuclear power, academia, and chemical engineering. According to the official announcement, these seven individuals have been appointed to guide the use of radiation in various applications across the state. The board will advise on regulatory oversight and safety measures related to radiation management in Texas.
