From Classroom to Career: The Path of Safety Professionals at IUP with Tracey Cekada

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into an engaging discussion about safety education in the construction industry with special guest Tracey Cekada, the chair of the Safety Sciences and Environmental Engineering Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP).

We kick off the episode with a light-hearted introduction, where Chris and Jon share their excitement about the topic and the importance of safety in construction. Jon highlights the Keystone Contractors Association's scholarship program, which recently awarded its first scholarship to Mackenzie Daniel, a student in IUP's safety program. This sets the stage for our conversation about the significance of safety education and the opportunities available for students in this field.

Tracey Cekada joins the conversation to provide insights into IUP's safety program, which offers a Bachelor of Science in Safety, Health, and Environmental Applied Sciences, as well as a Master's and PhD in Safety Sciences. Tracey explains the recent merger of two departments into one, emphasizing the growing importance of safety education in various industries, including construction, oil and gas, and even sports.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the common questions incoming students and their parents have about the job market and career prospects in safety. Tracey reassures listeners that the demand for safety professionals is high, with many medium to large companies employing safety experts. She shares inspiring stories of graduates who have found success in diverse fields, including a student working for Fox Sports, overseeing safety at major events.

As we delve deeper into the educational experience at IUP, Tracey outlines what first-year students can expect, including foundational courses and hands-on laboratory experiences. She emphasizes the importance of internships and co-op opportunities, which are integral to the program, ensuring that students graduate with real-world experience.

We also touch on the significance of communication skills for safety professionals, as Tracey explains how effective communication can make a difference in promoting safety culture within organizations. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the resources available for those looking to enter the safety field, including certification options and the potential for an associate's degree aimed at smaller contractors.

Overall, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone interested in pursuing a career in safety, particularly within the construction industry. Tracey's insights and the experiences shared by Jon and Chris highlight the importance of safety education and the myriad of opportunities available for students in this vital field. Tune in to learn more about how safety professionals are making a difference and how you can get involved!