A Look at Professional Evolution

I have been dedicated to the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) field since 1995, beginning my journey in the Air Force. Early on, I volunteered for the safety committee, which gave me additional responsibilities related to workplace safety. As the youngest airman in my unit, I was quickly given this role, allowing me to gain hands-on experience in critical safety areas such as fall protection, electrical safety, and general workplace protocols. While my primary duties were focused on environmental management, this exposure provided me with a comprehensive understanding of EHS principles.

After my time in the Air Force, I took the next step in expanding my expertise by working with the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence. This experience introduced me to an environmental think tank focused on developing best practices for the Air Force. Being part of this initiative was deeply rewarding and further solidified my commitment to the EHS sector. My career has taken me across every continent except Antarctica, with a significant portion of my work centered in Italy. However, most of my responsibilities were handled remotely—overseeing operations, analyzing test results, and supporting military bases worldwide without always needing to be physically present. This remote engagement allowed me to contribute to a variety of projects while maintaining a global perspective.

Seeking more hands-on involvement, I transitioned to a role with the U.S. Army Reserve, overseeing environmental management for the 89th Regional Readiness Command. This position provided me with an in-depth understanding of environmental and safety regulations, especially in the context of military real estate transactions. One of the biggest challenges I faced was effectively communicating environmental policies to diverse audiences. Whether addressing professionals with PhDs or individuals without a technical background, I quickly learned how to tailor messages to ensure clarity and compliance. This ability to adapt communication styles became an essential skill that has served me well throughout my career.

Eventually, I moved into the construction sector, joining Yantis Company and relocating to San Antonio to be closer to my family. I later became part of Brooks Air Force Base, where I worked with the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine. My focus there was on chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological defense from a medical standpoint. This role was one of the most fulfilling of my career, as it allowed me to develop strong professional relationships that remain invaluable today.

Currently, I am with EZ-BEL Construction, where I continue to be impressed by the company’s dedication to environmental and safety practices. The commitment to safety here is unmatched, with substantial resources devoted to employee well-being and process improvement. The culture at EZ-BEL is truly unique, and I am grateful to be part of such a forward-thinking organization.

Safety as a Priceless Commitment

My philosophy on safety is simple: human life is irreplaceable. No amount of money can compensate for an injury or loss of life. While equipment and materials can be replaced, a person’s well-being is priceless. Many fail to fully understand the broader impact of a workplace injury—it’s not just about the individual affected but also their family, financial stability, and overall quality of life.

For example, workers’ compensation typically covers only about 60 percent of an individual’s paycheck before taxes, creating financial stress. But beyond the financial aspect, injuries steal life’s precious moments—missing a child’s first steps, being unable to play sports, or attending important family events. No paycheck can make up for those lost experiences.

This is why safety is paramount: not just in the workplace, but in life. Ensuring the safety of every individual is worth far more than any amount of money or material gain. If I had to, I would take an injury myself rather than see one of my team members suffer. Many of them are the sole providers for their families, living paycheck to paycheck. Their safety is non-negotiable, and protecting them is my top priority.

Safety is paramount: not just in the workplace, but in life. Ensuring the safety of every individual is worth far more than any amount of money or material gain.

Implementing Effective Risk Management Strategies

Leadership in safety means being proactive, not reactive. At EZ-BEL Construction, our strategy starts with a strong onboarding process for new employees. The first day is entirely dedicated to safety training—an intense session designed to leave a lasting impression. While some may find it overwhelming, that’s intentional; we want safety to be the foundation of everything they do.

We don’t stop at onboarding. Ongoing education is crucial, which is why we conduct annual refresher courses and have scheduled 36 training sessions this year, with plans to add four more. We are also increasing specialized training for Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Additionally, we use EdApp, a virtual platform requiring employees to complete monthly training modules, which safety officers reinforce with in-person sessions.

Beyond training, we conduct daily inspections, Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and weekly toolbox talks. Accountability matters, but our approach prioritizes education over discipline. If a safety issue arises, we focus on retraining first before considering disciplinary measures. Our philosophy is clear: we lead through knowledge, ensuring our team has the tools they need to stay safe.

The Future of Safety in Construction

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly with advancements in safety technology. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is evolving, with improvements in safety glasses, hard hats, and other protective gear designed to enhance both protection and comfort.

However, the biggest change will be in how work is performed. The new generation of workers is far more tech-savvy, and we are seeing a growing reliance on technology to improve safety and efficiency. For example, excavation work is increasingly done by machinery rather than manual labor, reducing the risk of injuries. Enhanced communication tools are also improving collaboration between workers, middle management, and leadership, making operations more streamlined and safer.

At EZ-BEL Construction, we are embracing these advancements. We’ve integrated AI-powered platforms into our training programs, turning traditional presentations into engaging, interactive learning experiences. The response from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, ensuring that safety training remains impactful.

Additionally, we are transitioning from paper-based processes to digital solutions. JHAs are now completed on iPads, making documentation more efficient and accessible. Our internal systems are evolving to incorporate these technological advancements, strengthening our ability to manage safety more effectively. As technology continues to play a bigger role in workplace safety, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve.

Leadership and Advice for Safety Professionals

My leadership approach is rooted in education. While disciplinary action has its place, I believe that proper training and education prevent safety violations in the first place. If employees understand the ‘why’ behind safety protocols, they will naturally follow them—even when no one is watching. Simply dictating rules without context leads to non-compliance, but taking the time to explain the reasoning behind safety measures fosters lasting change.

Communication is also key. Everyone absorbs information differently, so I make a conscious effort to tailor my approach to different learning styles. Ensuring that messages resonate with employees is essential to building a strong safety culture and maintaining compliance.

For safety professionals entering the construction industry, my advice is to thoroughly understand the Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs). These regulations set the foundation for safety compliance, but it’s not enough to just read them—you have to understand their intent. The preambles to these regulations provide valuable context on why they exist, helping safety professionals apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.

Meeting OSHA’s minimum requirements is necessary, but our goal is to exceed them. By fostering a culture of continuous education, embracing technology, and prioritizing worker well-being, we can create safer workplaces. The future of construction safety is evolving, and by staying proactive, we can ensure that every worker goes home safe at the end of the day.