From the Field to Health & Safety: Rediscovering Purpose in Change
Every morning on site brought a sense of momentum— the crackle of energy, the rhythm of teamwork, and the pride in seeing a project come to life. For years, I worked as an electrical construction worker, building the infrastructure that powers our communities. It was more than a job—it was a calling.
Along the way, I found myself drawn to the health and safety side of the job. I became a worker representative, speaking up for my crew, helping identify hazards, and pushing for safer conditions. It wasn’t a formal role at first— just something I naturally gravitated toward because I wanted my team to go home safely every night. That experience opened my eyes to how important it is to have people on site who understand both the work and the risks, and who can bridge the gap between regulations and real-life conditions.
At one point, I even stepped away from construction and worked as an Inspector with the Ministry of Labour. That role gave me an entirely different perspective on industry. I was exposed to a wide range of workplaces, and I saw firsthand how laws and standards were applied in practice. I learned that enforcement was only one part of the job—education, communication, and building trust were equally important. But even with the valuable lessons that experience gave me, I felt a pull back to construction. The field was where I belonged, and after my time with the MOL, I returned to electrical work with an even deeper appreciation for safety and the people who keep projects moving.
So, when I later developed a medical condition that prevented me from continuing in the field, my world shifted dramatically. The physical demands of construction became too much, and at first, it felt like I was losing not just a career, but part of my identity. I had built my life around being hands-on in the trade, and I wasn’t sure where to go next.
But as difficult as that change was, it opened the door to a new opportunity—one I wasn’t expecting but have come to value deeply as it kept me within the B&M family I had come to cherish. I transitioned into a Health and Safety Advisor role, and in doing so, I discovered a different way to continue to contribute to the industry I care about.
Instead of wiring panels or pulling cable, I now use my field knowledge to protect workers, improve jobsite conditions, and support crews in staying safe. My time in the trade gives me an edge—I understand the realities of the work, the shortcuts people might be tempted to take, and the hazards that can easily be overlooked. That perspective helps me connect with crews on a practical level. I’m not just quoting regulations; I’m speaking from lived experience.
This role has given me a renewed sense of purpose. Where I once built projects with my hands, I now help build safer environments for others. It’s a different kind of satisfaction—knowing that the guidance I provide can prevent accidents, protect health, and allow workers to go home safe every day.
The transition hasn’t always been easy. I still miss the camaraderie of being in the trenches with my crew. But I’ve learned that resilience means more than holding on—it means adapting, growing, and finding new ways to contribute. Our value doesn’t vanish when our circumstances change; it evolves.
For anyone facing an unexpected transition, know this: Change may be daunting, but it can also be a doorway. Whether you’re pulling cable or pulling a team together, the heart of the work remains the same: protecting people, building trust, and making sure everyone gets home safe.
