President’s Welcome

Dear Working Time Society Members and Friends,

It is my honor and privilege to serve as President of the Working Time Society. Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside an exceptional Board of Directors, Executive Officers, committee leaders, and conference organizers, all of whom have contributed their time, expertise, and energy to advancing our Society’s mission. I am continually inspired by the dedication of our members and by the sense of community that makes the Working Time Society a vibrant international network of researchers and practitioners.

One of the highlights of my term thus far was the 25th International Symposium on Shiftwork & Working Time in Brazil in 2025. Following a six-year gap since our previous symposium, it was especially rewarding to reconnect with longtime colleagues and welcome new ones from around the world to exchange scientific findings, renew professional relationships, and foster collaborations. I am deeply grateful to the conference organizers for their exceptional planning and hospitality, which helped make the meeting both intellectually stimulating and memorable. I was honored to recognize the outstanding contributions of our members through the presentation of WTS awards and to lead the Society’s General Assembly as we reflected on our accomplishments and future directions. The meeting served as a wonderful reminder that our members’ scientific excellence is matched by their generosity, collegiality, and commitment to supporting one another.

Beyond our international symposium, I have been proud to see the continued growth and engagement of the Society. Our committees have expanded their activities and taken on important initiatives driven by the interests, expertise, and enthusiasm of their members. Through WTS-hosted webinars, co-hosted webinars with ICOH, enhanced communication channels, and ongoing efforts to highlight the work of WTS researchers and practitioners, we have continued to create opportunities for scientific exchange, professional connection, and community building. I am encouraged by the creativity and dedication of our Board, Executive Officers, and WTS Committee volunteers, whose efforts have strengthened engagement, increased the visibility of the Society, and helped position us for continued growth. These achievements are possible because of individuals who generously contribute their time and expertise for the benefit of our global network.

The Working Time Society occupies a unique position in bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders from diverse disciplines and regions of the world. Together, we address critical issues related to work schedules, fatigue, worker health and well-being, safety, and performance, helping to advance both scientific understanding and practical solutions to real-world challenges. Many WTS members, myself included, credit our involvement in this Society as an important part of our professional development. The mentorship, support, and exchange of ideas fostered through WTS not only strengthen individual careers, but also help advance our field and its impact on workers, organizations, and society.

I encourage you to explore the resources available on our website, including information about upcoming webinars and events, Society publications, conference proceedings, committee activities, and the history of the organization. Whether you are a long-standing member or new to the Society, I hope you will find opportunities to connect with colleagues, share your work, and become involved in the many activities that make WTS such a supportive and engaging community.

As we look ahead, I am excited about our continued growth and about preparations for the 26th International Symposium on Shiftwork & Working Time, which will be held in June 2027 in Loughborough, United Kingdom. This symposium will provide another forum for us to join together with colleagues from around the world to focus on “Advancing Safety, Health, and Equality in Shiftwork for a Sustainable Future.” I am confident that the Working Time Society will continue to build on its strong tradition of scientific excellence, collegiality, and international collaboration as we work together to address the evolving challenges of working time and shiftwork.

As I reflect on my time as President, I am proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to serve such an engaged, talented, and dedicated membership. Thank you for your involvement in and commitment to the Working Time Society. I look forward to continuing this journey with you and to all that we will accomplish together.

Warmest regards,

Kimberly A. Honn, Ph.D.
President, Working Time Society