I have been associated with the safety sciences program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) for many years, including being part of the Western Pennsylvania Chapter that sponsors ASSP’s IUP Student Section, serving on the program’s advisory committee and being an adjunct faculty member. These opportunities have truly enriched my career, and I am grateful for them.

That is why it was such an honor to deliver a commencement address several years ago to graduates of the program. In that speech, I shared five suggestions for growing personally and professionally. Because I believe these suggestions apply no matter where you are in your career, I also shared them during a general session at Safety 2024, and I would like to share them with you as well. 

First, Be Bold

Mark Twain said:

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do, so throw off the bowlines, sail away from safe harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore, dream, discover.

We each have many options in front of us. Be bold and say yes when opportunities present themselves. When we embrace opportunities to leave our comfort zone and stretch our skills and abilities, the rewards and lessons learned are enriching.

Second, Be Compassionate

I firmly believe the adage that people do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. Strive to build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Early in our careers, we often focus on mastering our technical skills because those are essential to establishing our expertise. But what we can never lose sight of is that occupational safety is about working with people. Showing compassion for workers is critical to our success as professionals and to the business success of our organizations and clients.

Third, Be Humble

Everyone has valuable insights to offer that can improve workplace safety. To succeed as safety professionals, we must be trusted advisors with whom workers will readily partner to help eliminate the hazards they encounter each day. Always look for ways to elevate others instead of yourself.

Fourth, Be Curious

As Stephen Covey advises, when you ask a question, be quiet and listen with the intent to understand, not to reply. We all know this can be challenging, but developing the skill of humble inquiry will help us access enormous wisdom and insight. In my experience, if someone knows I am truly interested in learning from them and that I care about them, they will readily share. 

Fifth, Be Connected

ASSP provides such a rich environment in which to grow your network, find essential resources and get answers to questions. My membership has helped me succeed in ways I could never have imagined. My network has also served as a safe sounding board for my ideas and supported me through challenging times. Even more, my network brought me to this role as ASSP president, which has provided me the opportunity to share these thoughts with you today.

I truly believe that when we are bold, compassionate, humble, curious and connected, we can continuously grow in our careers, help improve this great profession and advance workplace safety. I hope you find these suggestions helpful in your continued journey of professional growth.