PARK RIDGE, Illinois — The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) welcomed its new director of professional development today. Chris Ballman, PHR, MSHR, will oversee the Society’s comprehensive educational offerings that advance the careers of occupational safety and health professionals worldwide. He will also provide leadership oversight of ASSP’s largest annual event – a Professional Development Conference and Exhibition that attracts more than 5,000 industry professionals.

Ballman is an experienced association executive whose background includes employee and member development with a focus on facilitation, instructional design, eLearning and consulting.

“We’re thrilled to have Chris on board because his experience and abilities will help strengthen ASSP’s position as a global leader in professional development,” said CEO Jennifer McNelly. “We know Chris can hit the ground running and make a positive impact from the start.”

Prior to joining ASSP, Ballman spent six years as senior director of education and learning services at the Chicago office of SmithBucklin, an association management and services company. He led a team of specialists who helped organizations create and deliver innovative educational content.

Ballman also served as training specialist and senior career consultant for Colorado Technical University. His experience includes leading the design, implementation and evaluation of instructional programs for adult learners in online and classroom settings. He holds a master’s degree in human resources from Loyola University Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in history from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

“Considering the realm of his experience, Chris brings a lens of learner-centric education that’s anchored in creating a great experience,” McNelly said. “He has a unique blend of skills that have helped his association customers deliver significant value to their members.”

The world’s oldest professional safety organization, ASSP has a longstanding reputation of delivering top-quality occupational safety and health education and training that its members can immediately put into practice. The Society’s offerings include webinars, certification preparation, certificate programs, online learning tools and its annual safety conference every June. Safety 2019 in New Orleans will bring together professionals from 40 countries who will learn about best practices, industry trends and the latest product innovations.

ASSP is approved as an accredited provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is authorized to offer IACET continuing education credits for its programs that qualify.

About ASSP – Working together for a safer, stronger future
For more than 100 years, the American Society of Safety Professionals has been at the forefront of helping occupational safety and health professionals protect people and property. The nonprofit society is based in the Chicago suburb of Park Ridge. Its global membership of over 38,000 professionals covers every industry, developing safety and health management plans that prevent injuries, illnesses and deaths. ASSP advances its members and the safety profession through education, advocacy, standards and a professional community. Its flagship publication, Professional Safety, is a longtime leader in the field. Visit www.assp.org and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.