Navigating the Journey of Safety Leadership

Rob Miller, a safety professional since 1996, graduated from Murray State University with a BS in Occupational Safety and Health. He began his career in construction, focusing on oil refineries and chemical plants, and later transitioned to the utility industry. As a certified safety and utility safety professional, he leads safety initiatives across various sectors for Keeley Construction.

Building Trust through Relationships 

One of my primary responsibilities is cultivating meaningful relationships with our leadership team and craft personnel. Building these connections is crucial for establishing a culture of trust within the organization. When our craft personnel believe in the effectiveness of our outlined processes and procedures, they are more likely to adhere to them. This trust creates a psychological safety environment where team members feel empowered to propose more efficient or safer task execution methods. Encouraging this open dialogue reinforces safety practices and fosters a collaborative atmosphere where everyone feels invested in the project’s success. This relationship-building is particularly important in an industry that often faces high-pressure situations. The construction sector’s inherently time-sensitive nature and high-stakes environment demands robust interpersonal dynamics. When employees trust that their leadership values their input, they are more likely to take ownership of their work, leading to higher safety and quality on the job site.

Overcoming Industry Challenges 

One of the most significant challenges we face in the construction industry today is the high volume of work, which has led to an influx of new craftsmen and women entering the workforce. This unprecedented surge represents opportunity and complexity. Many of these individuals are either new to the workforce or have joined a company for the first time, which can create a steep learning curve.

To address this challenge, it is crucial to focus on integrating newly hired employees during their first three to six months. This initial period is strategically critical for immersing new team members in the organization's culture, operational expectations, and rigorous safety protocols. When these new team members grasp the broader implications of their decisions, they begin to see how their actions impact the safety and well-being of their colleagues and the overall success of the project. We must create a supportive environment where these new hires feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. By doing so, we can help them navigate this learning curve more effectively, reducing the potential for accidents and improving overall productivity.

Envisioning the Future of Safety 

Looking ahead, I envision a future where craft personnel play an increasingly integral role in project planning and safety initiatives. I anticipate a significant shift toward involving these individuals in safety, quality and production planning discussions. With decades of hands-on experience, these individuals bring a wealth of knowledge that can uncover safer, smarter and more efficient ways to approach tasks insights that only come from years in the field.

At Keeley Construction, we have already begun to see the benefits of this approach through our Safety Champions teams. These teams consist of craftsmen and women alongside field leadership, and they have been instrumental in driving process improvement initiatives. By tapping into the knowledge and expertise of our workforce, we can create a more dynamic and responsive safety culture that evolves alongside the industry.

Guidance for Aspiring Leaders 

For fellow professionals entering the safety field, I have two key pieces of advice that I believe are essential for success. First, practice patience and actively listen to those around you. The most valuable insights often come from your colleagues, and taking the time to absorb their perspectives can lead to profound learning opportunities. Whether you are interacting with seasoned professionals or new employees, everyone has unique experiences and viewpoints that can enrich your understanding of safety practices.

Second, stretch your leadership potential by becoming an engaged learner. This could involve reading books on leadership, attending workshops, or enrolling in courses that focus on developing your skills. Effective leadership is not merely about holding a position of authority, but is about supporting those entrusted to your care. Understanding the principles of servant leadership can significantly enhance your effectiveness in this role.