When did you decide you wanted a career in occupational health and safety?
It was 2001 when I was leading Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada’s emergency response plan and fire prevention. My boss was moved into the health and safety department and asked if I would come with him.
What was your first occupational health and safety position?
I was a Health & Safety Specialist at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada.
Tell us about your current job. What are your main areas of responsibility?
I am currently the President and Visionary of Spark Safety Solutions (Grand River OHS Inc.). My main responsibilities include big ideas on how to grow our occupational health and safety consulting and training services, vision, and culture.
What do you love about your job?
Bringing safety to life! Leading a team of talented and passionate health and safety professionals and being able to provide health and safety solutions to clients of all shapes and sizes!
What are the challenges you experience in your job?
Mainly competing in an unregulated market, being safety consulting and training. We try to keep the bar raised quite high and to provide services which are led by subject matter experts.
What skills are important for success in the OHS field?
Being a thoughtful innovator, leading with integrity, and ensuring a high level of ethics and accountability.
What tips do you have for new grads or those in entry level OHS positions who want to move up the ladder?
Have a plan and path forward for growth and continuous improvement. Choose the CRST and/or CRSP path - never stop learning.
The OHS field has been evolving. What changes excite you most?
Seeing the collaboration of stakeholders and the common desire to improve the overall profession.
What’s the future of the OHS profession?
I can see it becoming regulated, similar to other professions, helping ensure the quality and integrity of the profession as a whole.
What do you do when you are not working?
I love to fish, golf, cook, and spend time with my family! I also instruct various OHS courses at Conestoga College as I have a passion to teach!