With over 34 years of unwavering commitment to health and safety, David has crafted an impressive career that spans various roles and industries. From serving in the U.S. Air Force to leading safety initiatives at Sentry Insurance, David's journey reflects a deep and unyielding commitment to improving workplace safety and health.
Early Beginnings and Military Service
David’s safety journey began in 1976 at age 17 when he joined the U.S. Air Force. Assigned to the Security Police Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, England, he was involved in disaster preparedness, igniting his lifelong passion for safety.
After a six-year commitment to the U.S. Air Force, David was hired by the Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Correctional Officer at USP Leavenworth. Here, he transitioned to an Occupational Health and Safety Trainee, eventually being promoted to Occupational Health and Safety Manager, serving in Boron, CA, Oakdale, LA, Ashland, KY, and Chicago, IL. He then advanced to a position in Washington D.C. as a member of the Program Review team for safety.
A Remarkable Role in Firefighting and Safety Management
One of the highlights of David's career was managing an inmate Fire Crew known as Station 52 in Boron, CA. With eleven inmate firefighters certified as EMTs, he led efforts to combat the largest solar plant fire in the world. This role underscored his commitment to hands-on safety and emergency response.
Throughout his tenure, David reviewed health and safety programs across the United States within the Federal Bureau of Prisons and some privatized prisons. He participated in Joint Commission inspections and was responsible for inspecting UNICOR factories, including cable, textile, printing, Humvee repair, power press, healthcare facilities, and food service operations.
Transition to OSHA and Private Sector Leadership
After his time with the Bureau of Prisons, David was hired as a Federal Investigator by OSHA in Region 5 Calumet City IL Office, overseeing the Whistleblower program for the 11c Safety, Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA), and the Federal Railroad Safety Administration (FRSA).
Upon retiring from federal service, David founded Safety By Design Consultant Services to make safety affordable for small and medium-sized businesses. David focused on creating safer work environments for Latino/Hispanic workers, believing in the power of positive impact and reducing workplace injuries and fatalities.
Current Role and Continued Impact
Today, David serves as a Senior Safety Consultant at Sentry Insurance, managing over 30 clients from diverse industries, including manufacturing, forging, textile, and warehousing. He conducts mock OSHA inspections, provides OSHA training, and offers ergonomic assessments and training. His comprehensive approach ensures that safety is integrated into every aspect of client operations.
Publishing and Educational Initiatives
David has also ventured into publishing, with a book titled "The Faces of Safety and Those Left Behind When Tragedy Strikes," which reached the Amazon #1 Seller List. This book aims to inspire CEOs, CFOs, and supervisors to invest in employee safety, highlighting the significant return on investment for companies.
Currently, he is creating a children's and parents' safety coloring book titled "Coloring Your Way to Safety at Home, School, and Play." This book is designed to instill safety awareness in children and provide valuable lessons for parents and kids.
Advocacy for Lifesaving Programs and Future Aspirations
Supporting family CPR training is another of David's passions, believing that widespread training can save lives. He envisions a future where every family is equipped to respond to emergencies, enhancing community safety.
Looking ahead, David aspires to become a safety motivational speaker for all manufacturing industries, healthcare facilities, warehouse distribution centers, food processing and farms as well as Universities. He also wants to share his children's coloring book with organizations such as police, fire departments, department of child welfare, daycares and preschools. His vision and commitment to safety advocacy are sure to inspire others.