The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) represents more than 4,500 physicians and other health care professionals specializing in the field of occupational and environmental medicine (OEM). Founded in 1916, ACOEM is the nation's largest medical society dedicated to promoting the health of workers through preventive medicine, clinical care, research, and education. A dynamic group of physicians encompassing specialists in a variety of medical practices is united via the College to develop positions and policies on vital issues relevant to the practice of preventive medicine both within and outside of the workplace. While national in scope, the College is composed of local component societies in the United States and Canada, whose members hold scientific meetings and network on a regular basis. ACOEM sponsors the annual American Occupational Health Conference, the nation's largest conference of its kind, each spring.