EHS CONFERENCE
SESSION DETAILS
Learn from industry experts in 3 Keynote Presentations and 21 Breakout Sessions, all focused on sharing updates, best practices, resources and solutions in the areas of Environmental, Health and Safety.
Day 1 - Monday, October 5th
Exhibitor Set Up from 7AM - 10:30AM
Registration Open from 10:30AM - 5PM
7AM - 10:30AM
Exhibitor Check In & Set Up
10:30AM - 12PM
Attendee Check-In & Exhibit Hall Open
12PM - 1PM
Lunch & Opening Keynote
The Triangle: The Link Between Safety, Engagement, and Leadership
Have you ever wondered why you spend so much time convincing people to be safe? Isn't safety in their own best interest? It turns out that safety issues are symptoms of a larger problem, which presents a major opportunity. Statistically, the best way to improve safety is to improve engagement and the best way to improve engagement is to improve leadership. Don Harkey, CEO of People Centric, will discuss this link and what manufacturers can do to improve not only safety but also their bottom line.
Don Harkey, CEO | People Centric Consulting Group
Don Harkey is the CEO and Founder of People Centric Consulting Group in Springfield Missouri. Don spent the first decade of his career as a chemical engineer in manufacturing facilities for Archer Daniels Midland and 3M. As an engineer, Don was an OSHA 10-Hour trainer and helped upgrade safety processes for both contractors and operators. Don left 3M in 2007 to enter the world of consulting. He co-founded People Centric, which helps organizations and their leaders become the best versions of themselves through systems that support the creation of a strong culture. Today, his company works with manufacturers to help boost KPI's through employee engagement. Don recently co-authored the book, "Becoming People Centric" with co-founder Diana Royalty. Don is a highly engaging keynote speaker who mixes humor with practical advice and experience.
1PM - 1:30PM
Visit Exhibitors
1:30PM - 2:30PM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Zero Waste Strategies for Missouri Waste Generators: How to Convert Industrial, Food, and Complex Waste Streams into New Sustainable Resources
"Zero waste to landfill" is achievable for Missouri waste generators today. This presentation lays out landfill diversion strategies for manufacturing and industrial waste streams, food and beverage waste, and complex and non-recyclable waste profiles. Attendees will learn how to convert non-recyclable waste materials into alternative fuels, best practices for food waste de-packaging and reclamation, and how to reclaim hard-to-recycle waste streams for beneficial reuse. The session also includes real-world case studies and video demonstrations of landfill diversion and food waste processing in action.
Chad DeGraffenreid, Founder & CEO | Simplified Environmental Solutions
Chad DeGraffenreid is CEO of Simplified Environmental Solutions (SES), a Missouri-based zero waste company that has diverted more than 250,000 tons of waste from US landfills. Under his leadership, SES operates six zero-waste processing facilities serving manufacturing, logistics, commercial food production, and other sectors with a “simplified” approach to sustainable waste management: everything is beneficially reused, nothing goes to landfill. Chad has over 20 years of manufacturing operational experience, from plant manager to CEO, and holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. He also leads a team of TRUE Certified Zero Waste to Landfill advisors who design facility-specific sustainability programs. The result is a "lean & green" waste program - eliminating landfill dependency while maximizing resource efficiency across your entire waste stream.
Health Track
Topic coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
Safety Track
Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT) & Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWP) Regulations vs. Applications
Powered Industrial Trucks and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms are essential tools in manufacturing operations, but understanding how regulatory requirements apply in real-world situations can be challenging. This session will explore OSHA regulations, operator training requirements, inspection expectations, and common compliance pitfalls while comparing them to everyday workplace applications. Attendees will gain practical guidance on selecting the right equipment, ensuring safe operation, and developing programs that support both compliance and productivity.
John H. Mundwiller, President | Amazima Safety Consulting, LLC
John has over 33 years of experience in the Safety Profession. His background includes Worker’s Compensation Administration, Liability Claims Management, Risk Management, Environmental, Health & Safety and Security positions in large Corporate Environments including the Automotive Industry, Offshore Drilling, Emergency Response, Moving Industry and Security Management. John has a proven track record of providing comprehensive safety services wherever he goes. He holds an Advanced Safety Certification from the National Safety Council. He is also an Authorized OSHA Outreach Trainer for General Industry. He is a Certified Instructor for Smith System Defensive Driving and the National Safety Council’s Emergency Care courses. He has served on the Executive Board of the Ark-La-Tex Division of the National Safety Council. John has years of experience in Emergency Response, Fire / Rescue, Hazardous Materials Emergency Response and Emergency Medical Service with a specialty in Confined Space Rescue Services. John has been SKYWARN Certified by the National Weather Service and is a member of a Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) through F.E.M.A. and the Boles Fire Protection District.
2:45PM - 3:45PM
Manufacturers face growing pressure to reduce emissions while maintaining safe, compliant, and reliable operations. In many facilities, secondary utilities such as refrigeration, compressed air, boilers, and HVAC drive the majority of energy use and emissions but are often overlooked. This session shows how manufacturers use industrial controls, utility optimization, and performance-based programs with guaranteed cost savings to achieve measurable environmental progress and fund sustainability initiatives without disrupting production.
Chris Myers, Sustainability Consultant | Rensenhouse
Chris Myers is a Sustainability Consultant with Rensenhouse, where he works directly with manufacturers across Missouri and the central United States to reduce energy costs and achieve environmental goals without disrupting operations. He partners with plant and corporate stakeholders to identify practical, facility-level opportunities that align sustainability objectives with operational realities. Chris focuses on evaluating secondary utility systems such as refrigeration, compressed air, boilers, and HVAC, where manufacturers often see the greatest opportunities for energy and emissions reductions. His work includes sustainability assessments, performance-based energy projects with guaranteed cost savings, and coordination of utility incentive programs to help fund long-term environmental initiatives. Rensenhouse is part of the Industrial Solutions Network, providing local execution backed by a broader ecosystem of engineering resources and technology partners.
Health Track
Accountable Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is not just a comfort issue, it is a health, operational, and risk-management issue. In manufacturing environments, air quality can influence employee well-being, confidence, productivity, and absenteeism, while also affecting how facility teams manage ventilation, filtration, exhaust, and building performance. This practical session will show attendees how to move beyond assumptions and begin managing IAQ with real accountability. The presentation will focus on what to measure, what common blind spots to avoid, and how HVAC systems, controls, and operational practices can work together to support health and safe indoor environments.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the key indoor air quality factors that most directly affect employees and facility performance in manufacturing environments.
• Gain a basic understanding of the impacts that IAQ has on human health, and why its important to control.
• Evaluate practical ways to monitor, trend, and improve IAQ using real facility data.
• Apply a more accountable approach to IAQ that aligns with EHS priorities, operations, and maintenance realities.
Chris Ruth, Mid Missouri Controls Manager | Integrated Facility Services
Chris Ruth is a building automation professional with Integrated Facility Services, where he has spent 20 years helping design and manage systems that improve comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality in buildings. He is a past Chair of the Missouri Gateway Green Building Council and serves as President Elect of the ASHRAE Ozarks Chapter. In 2025, Chris delivered a TEDx Talk, where he shared how building automation delivers a triple impact on comfort, efficiency, and health. He is an Adjunct Professor of HVAC Controls and regularly facilitates programs for ASHRAE, MSPMA, MGGBS, and other organizations. He volunteers with K-12 Schools on developing and implementing low cost/no cost sustainability projects.
Safety Track
How to Handle an OSHA Inspection
This interactive session will walk attendees through what to expect during an OSHA visit, the agency's current inspection priorities, and practical steps to reduce the risk of citations and costly penalties. Learn the essential elements of an effective safety program, including management commitment, hazard assessments, training, documentation, and enforcement, followed by an open Q&A to address your toughest OSHA compliance questions.
Russ Hinds, President & CEO | Mid-America Safety & Environmental
Since 2019, Russell Hinds has been Mid-America Safety & Environmental’s President and CEO. Russ brings an experienced management perspective to our operations, leading our development of safety programs for businesses of all sizes and industries. With over 250 active clients across 25 states, safety management and OSHA compliance are his areas of expertise. His experience with large group training and teamwork enhancement techniques allow him to build better programs to support your business. In his spare time, Russell enjoys golfing and travelling with his wife. Russell holds the following Training Certificates and Professional Qualifications: American Traffic Safety Services Association Flagger Trainer Asbestos Worker Trainer Authorized OSHA Outreach Trainer General Industry/Construction Certified State of Missouri Safety Consultant EPA Lead Renovator Trainer HAZWOPER Trainer Lead Abatement Trainer State of Arkansas Approved Professional Safety Source National Safety Council Distracted Driving Instructor National Safety Council First Aid/CPR Instructor Russell is a member of the following organizations: Abou Ben Adhem Shrine American Society of Safety Professionals Former Board Member - Good Samaritan Boys Ranch Gate of the Temple Lodge #422 Governing Board Member - Missouri Sports Hall of Fame North American Safety Professionals
4PM - 5PM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Personal Branding, Storytelling and Sustainability
Personal branding and storytelling are incredible tools to leverage that will benefit your career and your company. Whether you are responsible for internal messaging within your organization, trying to hit sales and new business targets or simply trying to communicate your commitment to sustainability or safety, a brand has never been more important. Join Tim Ridderbos for a presentation about strategies and tools for branding both online and in the real world. The information shared is relevant to both personal and corporate branding with a focus on communication in the world of sustainability.
Key Takeaways
-
Discuss the Why behind personal branding
-
Explore the How with some practical examples of Online and “Real World” Branding
-
How AI is being utilized for Branding
-
ROI of Personal Branding
-
Be better equipped to leverage the tools you have to build community and influence people.
Tim Ridderbos, VP of Circular Business Development | Shapiro
Tim is a native of St. Louis, Missouri where he still lives and works. Tim began learning about the recycled materials industry while working as a territory manager for Fabick Caterpillar, participating in his first recycling event in 2017 because his customer, Shapiro Metals, was also attending. Shortly thereafter, he was recruited by Shapiro and began his sustainability journey as a National Account Manager while helping multi-location industrial manufacturers improve their recycling programs. Tim now serves as the VP of Circular Business Development. Tim works with the Shapiro team to build recycling and sustainability programs for multi-location industrial manufacturers stretching from Richmond, Virginia to Portland, Oregon and from Montreal, Canada to Monterrey, Mexico. The Circular team is responsible for creating additional revenue and savings for its customers while diverting thousands of tons of material from landfills and expanding Shapiro’s capabilities beyond metal recycling. Tim holds a Certificate of Corporate Innovation and Sustainability and is currently pursuing a Masters in Sustainability from the Harvard Extension School.
Health Track
Why Safety Programs Fail: The Human Factors Behind Workplace Incidents
Most safety programs fail not because of poor processes, but because of human behavior. Even the best-designed systems break down when communication falters, complacency sets in, or individuals feel pressure to prioritize speed over safety. This session explores the behavioral drivers behind workplace incidents and provides practical strategies to improve accountability, communication, and decision-making on the floor. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to influence safer behaviors, reduce preventable incidents, and strengthen their overall safety culture.
Nicole Ursch, Owner | Actionable Insights, LLC
Nicole Ursch, MBA, O.D., is a seasoned Certified Emotional Intelligence Practitioner, dedicated to empowering professionals since 2018. Specializing in training and 1:1 coaching, she guides individuals in leveraging Emotional Intelligence for exceptional professional success. With a proven track record, Nicole has orchestrated and executed impactful programs that not only foster professional growth but also equip participants with the tools to contribute added value to their organizations and communities. As a dynamic keynote speaker, she covers a range of topics, including but not limited to Diversity and Inclusion, Effective Communication, Personal Branding, and Relationship Building.
Safety Track
A Lockout/Tagout Journey from Problem to Compliance
Hear and learn from the true story of how a manufacturing facility took a broken Lockout/Tagout program and navigated a performance standard to create best practices and exceed compliance standards. Leave with insights and lessons learned from a fellow manufacturer, sharing available resources to help everyone manage a strong Lockout/Tagout program.
Kasey Vickers, EHS Specialist/Industrial Hygienist | Solventum
Kasey is a 2011 graduate of UCM’s Occupational Health and Safety Program and a 2018 graduate of the school’s Industrial Hygiene Masters program. She’s spent the past 15+ years in EHS with various manufacturing companies and is currently the EHS Specialist with Solventum (formerly 3M Healthcare) in Columbia Missouri.
5PM - 7:30PM
Reception, Dinner & 2025 Safety/Sustainability Awards Presentation
5PM – 6PM Reception, Networking & Visit Exhibitors
6PM – 7:30PM Dinner, Safety & Sustainability Awards
Following dinner, we will have short presentations of the 2026 MAM Safety Awards, recognizing the "Top Ten", "Leader of the Pack", and "Safety Innovation of the Year"! We will also be recognizing Certified Companies who have completed the Missouri Manufacturers Sustainability Certification Program in 2026.
More information about both programs can be found below:
MAM Safety Awards
Missouri Manufacturers Sustainability Certification Program
2025 Leader of the Pack Recipient
Kemin Industries (Verona, MO)
Day 2 - Tuesday, October 6th
Registration Open from 7AM - 4:30PM
7AM - 8AM
Breakfast, Networking, Visit Exhibitors
8AM - 9AM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Extended Producer Responsibility – What You Need to Know
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws are expanding and evolving, with several states actively shaping and/or enforcing respective programs, requirements, compliance standards and associated fees. EPR shifts the burden of waste management from municipalities to individual businesses (i.e. manufacturers). In this session, Sara Rains will share what you need to know about EPR and how this new change could affect Missouri's waste management landscape.
Attendees will learn how to:
-
Interpret regulatory requirements and determine the obligated producer
-
Gather, record and report data to ensure compliance
-
Manage evolving guidance, litigation and enforcement risk
-
Budget for associated costs and potential fees
-
Prioritize updating supplier contracts
-
Actively monitor regulatory developments
Sara Rains, Senior Project Manager | SCS Engineers
Sara Rains is a Senior Project Manager at SCS Engineers with extensive experience in quality management, environmental compliance, and operational excellence. Holding degrees in Biology and Business Administration, she combines technical expertise with business strategy to help organizations improve performance and achieve long-term goals. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Sara has led quality systems, ISO 9001 programs, environmental compliance initiatives, process improvement projects, and sustainability efforts. Today, Sara specializes in industrial compliance, Clean Air Act and greenhouse gas programs, and developing practical solutions that strengthen compliance, efficiency, and business growth.
Health Track
Part 1: Navigating Workplace Drug Testing & Reasonable Suspicion – Policies, Programs & Procedures
As marijuana laws continue to evolve, manufacturers face increasing challenges in maintaining safe workplaces while navigating changing regulations, employee expectations, and drug testing requirements. This first session of a two-part series will explore the complexities of workplace drug testing, policy enforcement, reasonable suspicion, post-incident testing, and compliance considerations from the perspective of a third-party testing provider. Attendees will gain practical strategies for updating policies, reducing risk, and supporting safe workplaces.
John Throckmorton, Senior Training Consultant | Tomo Drug Testing
John Throckmorton is a Senior Training Consultant with Tomo Drug Testing. He has been with Tomo since December 2000, serving as a collection technician, field manager, breath alcohol and drug collection trainer, operations manager and account executive. Often referred to as “JT”, John has assisted businesses with the development and implementation of substance misuse testing programs as well as program reviews for compliance with State and Federal regulations. As a Senior Training Consultant, John annually conducts over 100 educational training seminars and webinars. John is a graduate of Baptist Bible College where he met Carol, his wife of 44 years. They have two grown children and three grandchildren. John has been involved in public speaking for over 45 years.
Safety Track
Topic coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
9:15AM - 10:15AM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Reduce Waste, Conserve Energy, Save Money – The Power of a Performance-Based Sustainability Program
This session will provide attendees with information on how to develop a sustainability program that drives waste and energy reductions, cost savings, employee engagement, and community involvement, while meeting growing customer expectations. A good sustainability program should achieve these efforts while effectively integrating into your specific business model to ensure effectiveness and efficiency. Attendees will learn about how to structure a successful program and hear from a manufacturing company about their experience recently developing and implementing a new program.
.jpg)
Doug Neidigh, Sustainability Unit Manager | Ozarks Environmental and Water Resource Institute at Missouri State University
Doug Neidigh is the Sustainability Unit Manager for the Ozarks Environmental and Water Resource Institute at Missouri State University. He has over 25 years of experience in environmental management, energy management, and sustainability. Over his career, Doug has worked in private manufacturing, state and local government, consulting, healthcare, and academics. Doug is a Registered Environmental Manager (REM) with the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP), and a Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) with the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE).
Health Track
Part 2: Navigating Workplace Drug Testing & Reasonable Suspicion – An Attorney's Perspective
Building on the concepts discussed in Part 1, this session will examine workplace drug testing and policy enforcement from an attorney's perspective. Attendees will gain insight into current legal considerations, employee rights, accommodation issues, disciplinary actions, and emerging regulatory trends. Brittany Perry will provide practical guidance for developing compliant policies that protect workplace safety while reducing legal and employment-related risks.
Brittany Perry, Member | Evans & Dixon, LLC
Ms. Perry joined Evans & Dixon in 2019 as an associate in the firm's Workers' Compensation practice, where she represents employers and insurers through the complexities of administrative proceedings and litigation, ensuring successful claim resolution. She also specializes in advocacy for survivors of domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault. She is passionate about protecting survivors and has worked extensively to support individuals through both civil and criminal legal processes. Following law school, Ms. Perry worked for 2 years as a civil litigation attorney in the Springfield area handling premise liability, automobile insurance defense, real estate, and defective construction cases. This diverse background provides her a solid foundation in litigation strategy across multiple industries.
Safety Track
Hands Up for Safety: Real-World Machine Guarding and HRN Risk Assessments to Prevent Injuries
Hand injuries account for approximately 35% of all recordable incidents and 17% of life-impacting injuries in manufacturing — including lacerations, crushes, broken bones, and amputations. This practical, experience-driven session delivers proven strategies that can put to work immediately in any manufacturing environment. Attendees will learn how to spot and control dangerous nip and pinch points on rotating equipment, choose the right PPE (and understand exactly when gloves can actually increase risk), apply effective machine guarding and safe-work procedures, and use the Hazard Rating Number (HRN) system to objectively quantify risks, prioritize fixes, calculate risk-reduction percentages, and build a compelling business case for engineering controls. Walk away with inspection checklists, visual examples from real equipment, and tools (maybe even a number of OSHA “Gotcha-Sticks") you can implement immediately.
James E. Small, Owner | GETYASOME Safety Consulting
James E. Small, CSP, CMSE® is a results-driven safety professional with more than 30 years of hands-on experience designing, implementing, and auditing world-class safety programs across diverse manufacturing environments. He is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) in Comprehensive Practice for over 25 years and a Certified Machinery Safety Expert (CMSE®). Jim has led safety, health, workers’ compensation, security, and environmental compliance for organizations ranging from 200 to 2,700 employees in industries that include metal fabrication, plating and coating, meatpacking, agricultural and industrial machinery manufacturing, computer assembly, mechanical power presses, and integrated paperboard mills. His last 6+ years has been as a consultant.
10:30AM - 11:30AM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Topic coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
Health Track
Topic coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
Safety Track
Changes to NFPA 70E - 2027
NFPA 70E - 2027 is set to be released later in 2026. Many changes including, additional persons, contact thermal hazard, and a complete rebuild of Chapter 3 (batteries risk assessment and solar installations). See how the new revisions affect your existing electrical safety and maintenance programs.
Learning Objectives:
-
Identify and explain key updates to NFPA 70E - 2027, including revisions to definitions, safety procedures and program requirements
-
Evaluate compliance requirement to the revised NFPA 70E - 2027 standard for revisions and updates to electrical safety programs
-
Identify methods to integrate NFPA 70E - 2027 changes into electrical maintenance programs.
Brent Mollenhauer, Internal Safety Director | The ESCO Group
Brent Mollenhauer, CSP, CESCP, joined ESCO Group in 2015 as an internal safety director for ESCO electricians in the field. In 2017, Brent joined ESCO's safety training group - training clients across the United States - primarily in NFPA 70E and OSHA Standards. Brent came to ESCO from a large industrial facility where he was the contractor safety specialist for five years.
Jason Wolf, Manager - Electrical Safety Training | The ESCO Group
Jason Wolf, CSP, CESCP, is the electrical safety training manager for The ESCO Group, located in Marion, Iowa. Jason has many years of experience in construction and manufacturing safety. As an electrical safety trainer for ESCO, Jason has worked with many different organizations conducting electrical safety training, creating electrical safety programs, and electrical safety consulting. Jason is a member of the NFPA 70E Technical Committee, and American Society of Safety Professionals.
11:30AM - 1:00PM
Lunch, Keynote & Visit Exhibitors
To Be Announced!
1PM - 2PM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Topic coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
Health Track
Ergonomics Solutions That Improve Safety and Productivity
Effective ergonomics is about more than preventing injuries—it can also improve efficiency, quality, and employee engagement. This session will explore practical ergonomic solutions manufacturers can implement to reduce physical strain, lower injury risk, and create safer, more productive work environments. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for identifying ergonomic hazards and making improvements that benefit both employees and operations.
Mark Heidebrecht, Owner | ErgoMethods & Managing Partner | Ergonomics International
Mark Heidebrecht has more than 25 years of experience and has provided forensic and expert witness services in the areas of biomechanics, human factors, ergonomics and work physiology. He has testified in more than 65 State Court and US Federal Court cases including the Federal OSHA hearing regarding the National Ergonomic Standard. Heidebrecht is a certified Ergonomist/Human Factors Professional and board-certified Exercise Physiologist. His expertise includes the implementation of ergonomic risk reduction processes, biomechanical analysis, upper/lower body ergonomic assessments, human factors analysis, physical demand analysis, job matching, work physiology and job specific functional testing.
Safety Track
Having the Authority to Start and Stop Work with Confidence
This presentation explores practical steps for establishing and sustaining a safe work environment by designing tasks around the worker and adapting them as conditions, priorities, and risks evolve. It emphasizes the role of worker empowerment in start‑and‑stop work authority, supported by consistent observations, timely interventions, and effective recordkeeping. Attendees will gain insights into how these practices reduce risk, reinforce accountability, and help prevent unsafe decisions throughout the workday.
Jason Anderson, Safety & Health Manager | Erlen Group
Jason Anderson, CSP, is the Safety & Health Manager for Erlen Group, a group of companies that include an underground storage/operations facility, multiple limestone quarry sites, a cold storage facility, a transloading/logistics operation and a real estate development company specializing in industrial zones. Jason is responsible for the Health and Safety of all employees across these organizations, ensuring everyone is protected while on the job. Jason is also a co-founder of the Springfield Safety Professionals Networking Group, consisting of safety professionals across several industries located in Springfield, MO, who meet monthly in-person to discuss current safety trends, topics and trainings.
2:15PM - 3:15PM
Conference Breakout Sessions
Environmental Track
Session coming soon.
Session description coming soon.
Speaker coming soon.
Speaker bio coming soon.
Health Track
Environmental, Health & Safety: Proven Strategies for Protection
Workplace safety today extends far beyond traditional incident prevention—it requires a proactive, integrated approach to managing environmental hazards, regulatory exposure, and operational risk. This session equips leaders with practical, field-tested strategies to strengthen Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) programs while aligning them with broader organizational risk management objectives.
Designed for operational leaders, EHS professionals, and compliance stakeholders, this presentation explores how to move from reactive compliance to a culture of prevention and accountability. Attendees will gain insight into identifying emerging risks, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and embedding EHS considerations into enterprise-wide decision-making.
Through real-world examples and actionable frameworks, participants will learn how to enhance workplace protections, reduce liability, and drive measurable safety outcomes across their organizations.
Participants will learn to:
-
Identify and assess common and emerging workplace safety risks, including environmental and operational hazards
-
Strengthen compliance awareness and improve alignment with evolving regulatory requirements
-
Integrate EHS initiatives into broader risk management and business continuity strategies
-
Develop practical approaches to fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
Shawn Mills, Consultant | SafeHaven Security Group
Shawn brings a unique, analytical and pragmatic approach to protecting your people and your brand. With a solid foundation in law enforcement and a decade-long tenure as a safety consultant, Shawn brings extensive expertise in assessing and mitigating risks across various environments. As a security and safety consultant, Shawn currently works with major league sports teams providing drug testing programs and life safety to athletes across the country. Prior to becoming a consultant, Shawn served in security supervisor roles where he managed safety programs, conducted audits, and optimized operations efficiency. He also developed and implemented comprehensive safety programs that focused on employee awareness and compliance standards, such as with OSHA regulations and ISNetworld standards. Through his work in audits and assessments, he has been successful in helping clients enhance their safety protocols, reduce the number of incidents, and enhance employee awareness. As a consultant for SafeHaven Security Group, Shawn works with clients on safety training programs, compliance standards, vulnerability assessments, and background investigations. Shawn is also skilled in behavioral threat assessment and management, crisis management and corporate drug testing programs. Shawn resides in Elk City, OK. His hobbies include ranching and rodeo, where he professionally rodeoed for over 20 years. OHSA 511 certified and Oklahoma armed private investigator.
Safety Track
Basic Tools to Implement, Track & Hold Leadership Accountable for Safety
Learn practical tools and simple systems to track safety performance, implement key initiatives, and strengthen leadership accountability when it comes to safety within your organization. This session will provide straightforward approaches to help build a safer, more engaged workplace culture.
Steve Bell, Owner | Employers Health & Safety
With over 28 years’ experience in the Environmental Safety & Health field, Steve and his company have a proven history in helping companies achieve lower incident rates, reduced litigation liabilities, as well as minimizing / eliminating any OSHA, EPA Compliance Citations. Steve also promotes working with all state and local agencies to achieve total compliance for his customers. “The success of my company comes from working at all levels of the organization to help each and every team member to understand their personal need for following all Environmental Health & Safety Rules and Regulations to help improve the processes of the company as well as to help improve their quality of life for their future.”
3:30PM - 4:30PM
Closing Keynote and Grand Prize Giveaway!
Now What?: Pulling it All Together
You have just invested your time at this conference learning new ideas that you can apply. However, the conference's real value will be tested by how you apply this information. Don Harkey, CEO of People Centric, will return to facilitate this final session where you can identify the best ideas, prioritize them, and determine your next steps.
Don Harkey, CEO | People Centric Consulting Group
Don Harkey is the CEO and Founder of People Centric Consulting Group in Springfield Missouri. Don spent the first decade of his career as a chemical engineer in manufacturing facilities for Archer Daniels Midland and 3M. As an engineer, Don was an OSHA 10-Hour trainer and helped upgrade safety processes for both contractors and operators. Don left 3M in 2007 to enter the world of consulting. He co-founded People Centric, which helps organizations and their leaders become the best versions of themselves through systems that support the creation of a strong culture. Today, his company works with manufacturers to help boost KPI's through employee engagement. Don recently co-authored the book, "Becoming People Centric" with co-founder Diana Royalty. Don is a highly engaging keynote speaker who mixes humor with practical advice and experience.