Every year, we bring together 50+ expert speakers from across the nation to deliver about 100 breakout sessions packed with real-world insight, hands-on strategies, and inspiring expertise. From front-line workers and new supervisors to seasoned safety pros and directors leading large teams, there’s something for every level. These sessions go beyond compliance, they’re built to ignite stronger safety cultures, sharpen communication, and develop confident leaders who drive change where it matters most: on the job, every day.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Tuesday Keynote

Sam
Glenn

Award-Winning Motivational Speaker, Author & Artist

Known as the “Attitude Guy,” Sam delivers a powerful blend of laughter, inspiration, and perspective that helps teams re-energize and refocus. His storytelling and live artwork remind us that attitude is the brush that paints our success.

Wednesday Keynote

George
Carroll

George Carroll Training & Coaching

George’s dynamic energy and raw authenticity drive powerful transformation. He’ll challenge you to break through barriers, elevate performance, and reconnect with the “why” behind your work in safety and leadership.

Thursday Keynote

Alan
Mallory

Speaker, Author & Performance Coach

Alan’s gripping journey of climbing Mount Everest with his family offers timeless lessons on teamwork, leadership, and resilience. His keynote brings extreme adventure to life—showing how peak performance is possible in any environment.

SESSION SPEAKERS

Aglae Young

Health, Safety & Environmental Consultant; State Certified EMS Instructor, EMT-B
North Dakota Safety Council

Aglae has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems for Management from the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico and a Master’s degree in Education from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. She has more than 20 years’ experience as a trainer in multiple areas. She has been a volunteer EMT with the New Salem Ambulance Service for more than 20 years and has been a Spanish interpreter for the ND Court System since 2009.

Amber Haas

Neurodiagnostics Supervisor, R. EEG T. R. EP T. R. PSGT.
Sanford Health

Amber joined Sanford Health in October, 2011. She supervises two departments that run as one, in addition to providing direct patient care. Amber sits on the ABRET volunteer leadership and development committee, serves as Education Chair for CSET, and is the President Elect for the Montana Sleep Society. She enjoy teaching others, speaking at conferences, and helping others find their passion. In her current role Amber handles Sanford’s AASM and ABRET lab accreditations, as well as keeping her departments Joint Commission-ready.

Andrea Jensen

Health, Safety & Environmental Consultant,
CSP, ASP, CIT, CSM, CEAS, MBA
North Dakota Safety Council

Andrea is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and has Professional certifications from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) ASP and CIT, from the National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) CSM, from the National Safety Council (NSC) ASC, from The Back School a CEAS (Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist). She has over 15 years’ experience in safety in the transportation, manufacturing and construction industries, and has an MS in Occupational Health and Safety from Columbia Southern University and an MBA from American Military University.

Art Thompson

Director
Workforce Safety & Insurance

Art Thompson is the director of North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) with the responsibility of leading the sole provider and administrator of workers’ compensation services in North Dakota. Thompson was appointed director by Governor Doug Burgum in October 2022. He was reappointed by Governor-Elect Armstrong on November 20, 2024.

Prior to joining WSI, Thompson was the executive director of the North Dakota Concrete Council where he led all facets of the industry trade association, including lobbying, marketing, and promotion efforts.

In the first half of Thompson’s career, he served in various public relations and business development roles, spending more than a decade building, managing, and growing ready-mix concrete operation.

Benjamin Sand

WSI Loss Control Program Manager
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

Benjamin Sand serves as the Loss Control Program Manager at Workforce Safety and Insurance. He has over 19 years of experience working in the field of Occupational Safety, is board certified as a Certified Safety Professional, and holds a Masters of Environmental Health and Safety from the University of Minnesota, Duluth.

Brad Warr

Senior Chief Instructor
Roco Rescue

Brad Warr has been a career firefighter for 20 years with Nampa Fire Department in Nampa, Idaho where he has served as a Captain for the last 11 years. In addition, Brad is responsible for coordination and training of Nampa Fire’s Technical and Heavy Rescue Program. Nampa’s technical rescue responds regionally to technical rescues in the southwest corner of the state. They provide technical rescue for local industry as well as the mountain sports community. Brad is a Chief Instructor for the Roco Rescue Corporation. He has been a member of the Roco instructor cadre since 2003 and a chief instructor since 2005. He teaches throughout the United States as well as internationally, specializing in Rope Rescue, Confined Space, Trench, and Structural Collapse. He is also a member of Roco’s Confined Space Rescue Team providing safety, compliance, and confined space rescue standby services for plants, refineries and other industrial complexes.

Chris Carlsen

Director of Training
Roco Rescue

Bio coming soon.

Chris Rockwell

President/Partner
Workplace Learning System

Christopher Rockwell is a global business executive with 20 years experience in the Oil & Gas, Heavy Trucking, High Performance Sealing and Alcoholic Beverage Industries. Leading successful cultural transformations in Operations and Safety excellence at businesses around the world, Rockwell has held several positions of increasing responsibility within EnPro Industries eventually assuming global operational responsibility for their Oil and Gas group. Chris has led more than a half dozen different businesses including three new acquisitions in the US and Europe to a culture of zero injuries. He offers “real world” insights based on his experiences about what it really takes to build a culture of excellence. Rockwell is a graduate of the the McColl School of Business Executive Management Program and the College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse. He is also a certified Lean Black Belt.

Chris began his career as an Environmental Engineer for the largest alcohol beverage company in the world where he supported 8 wineries and distilleries in New York and California. He gained extensive
experience in Major source air permitting, EHS auditing, Process Safety Management and aerial
dispersion modelling. Outside of work Rockwell is active in the community. He helped launch the Watch D.O.G.S program at his daughter’s elementary school outside Lexington, KY and serves as the “Top Dawg” for the program. Watch D.O.G.S. is sponsored by the National Center for Fathering and designed to provide an opportunity to have a positive male role model in the school. In his free time Chris enjoys competing in bass fishing tournaments. He has competed in events as a professional angler in 15 US states from coast to coast and in Canada.

Chris Ross

Safety Consultant, CSP, CPLP

Chris Ross is a passionate, humorous and energetic performance consultant, trainer, lecturer and presenter. With his background in civil engineering and over 35 years of experience in human resources, safety management, risk management, project management, budgeting and operations, Chris has consulted with over 800 organizations across a wide range of industries—from manufacturing, defense and engineering to chemicals, aerospace and beyond. A seasoned and celebrated speaker, he has presented keynotes, workshops and break-out sessions for fifteen consecutive years at the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) annual Professional Development Conference and has presented at dozens of other local and regional safety conferences.

Craig Stevens

General Manager; 24 year in the tire industry, 14 with a manufacturer, 2 years with the end user, and now 9 years on the dealer side
Big Horn Tire

Craig Stevens is a graduate of NSMU with a BA in criminal justice. After a decade in retail and a short stint farming with the family in New Mexico, he joined a global tire manufacturer in 2001. While at Michelin, he became part of their Mining Tire Group in North America, at the time a 1 billion dollar a year segment of Michelins business. That experience lead him back to Wyoming and into his current role as the General Manager for one of the biggest giant tire dealers in the country, serving a 6-state area and specializing in the Mining industry. He has a passion for customer service and providing long term solutions for clients. Craig sits on the TIA (Tire Industry Association) Board of Directors where he advocates for continued safe industry practices and promotes common sense policies. He is an active member of the community in his hometown, is the past President of the local Kiwanis group, and active with his fellowship family at New Life Church. Craig continues to be tolerated by his wonderful wife of 24 years, Kathe, and their 3 grown boys.

Crystal Nelson

Board Certified Professional Ergonomist; Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Board Certified in Professional Ergonomics, Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist – Level 2
Fargo Ergonmics

Crystal Nelson is a distinguished Board Certified Professional Ergonomist, a Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist – Level II, a Remote Ergonomics Assessment Specialist and an occupational therapist. As the founder and owner of Fargo Ergonomics, she has established herself as North Dakota’s leading expert in workplace ergonomics and injury prevention.

Crystal holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Mary and boasts additional credentials in Lean training, functional capacity evaluations, functional job assessments, and pre-work screens/post-offer employment testing. She is the only Board Certified Professional Ergonomist in the state, offering specialized services tailored to industrial, manufacturing, healthcare, dental, office environments and many more.

With a strong background in occupational therapy and a proven track record in the treatment of upper extremity injuries, Crystal is passionate about helping organizations and individuals minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Her comprehensive approach combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of workplace dynamics, making her a trusted partner in creating healthier, more productive workspaces.

Dale Robinson

Master Instructor
Construction Education Foundation OSHA Training Institute

Nationally and Internationally renowned professionally safety and health consultant and trainer for many occupations (oil and Gas, Construction and General industries). Motivational speaker, key note speaker, educator, expert witness, subject matter expert and more. 42 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry. 22 years with one of the Largest Independent Oil and Gas Producers and 18 years as owner of HR Safety Consulting, LLC. Provide consulting and training for many major corporations and independent business across the United States. Consult and train trainers and employees in the Petrochemical Industry in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Developed and authored training programs for the Oil & Gas Industry. Developer, author, owner of the OGOP110 Essentials of Safety and Standards Course for the Onshore E&P Sectors of the Oil and Gas Industry. Specialties: Authorized OSHA Outreach Instructor in General and Construction Industries. Recognized Master Instructor Trainer Emirates of Medic First Aid International, Inc. Master/Lead instructors at Construction Education Foundation OSHA Training Institute Education Center in Denver, CO. Former adjunct instructor and Outreach Coordinator at RMEC Region 8 OSHA Training Institutes Education Center in Lakewood, CO.

David Cooper

CEO
Iviry

Mr. David Cooper is the Chief Executive Officer of Iviry IT and three sister companies within the Defense Industrial Base — Anglicotech, Anglicotech Philippines, and HazeGrayCyber — all operating under his Savannah Portfolio of companies.

He served more than twelve years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry Officer and an additional four years in the Marine Corps Reserve. In 2003, he completed a combat tour in Iraq, where he was attached to the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division as a Close Air Support Coordinator.

Mr. Cooper earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master’s degree in Information Technology Management from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Prior to founding the Savannah Portfolio of Companies, he spent five years on the government acquisition team for the Global Combat Support System–Marine Corps (GCSS-MC). This Oracle-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is modernizing the Marine Corps’ supply chain and maintenance processes.

Dr. David Saxon

Executive Medical Director Occ Med, MD
Sanford Health

Dr. Saxon is board-certified in family medicine. He has spent 32 years as a full/part time emergency medicine physician with 10 years as a clinical occupational medicine physician and 4 years as a clinical toxicologist. He is presently the Medical Director for Sanford Health Occupational Medicine and oversees the 7 dedicated OccMed clinics. He is a member of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Dennis Snodgrass

Senior Health, Safety, & Environmental Consultant
North Dakota Safety Council

Dennis has extensive experience in the safety and oil industry. He has served as a manager/director for a number of safety companies where he provided training, policy creation, incident investigation, safety audits and much more. Dennis has served as a regional safety manager in the Bakken region, and also has a military background and is a published author and public speaker.

Derek Sang

Senior Technical Training Manager, QSSP, CSHEP
Bulwark

With over 25 years of experience in the Flame-Resistant (FR) clothing industry, Derek Sang has been a pivotal figure in advancing safety standards and education worldwide. As Senior Technical Training Manager at Bulwark Protection and Workrite Fire Service, Derek spearheads Bulwark and Workrite’s training initiatives, developing comprehensive programs that address the selection, use, and maintenance of Flame Resistant/Arc Rated (AR) clothing and Stationwear. His work ensures that workers across industries are equipped to stay safe in hazardous environments.

In 2024, Derek continued to make a significant impact by hosting over 50 educational presentation and webinars, reaching over 4000 attendees. He also expanded the reach of Bulwark’s technical training through the online series “What in the FR,” “NFPA 70E made Easy” and “What you wear under your turnout gear matters”.

Derek holds professional certifications as a Qualified Safety Sales Professional (QSSP) and Safety, Health, Environmental Professional (CSHEP) with IASHEP. With a dedication to innovation and education, Derek remains a trusted expert and advocate for safety in the FR/AR clothing industry.

Don Moseman

Training & Education Director
North Dakota Safety Council

Don Moseman is originally from Rapid City, SD. He served in the United States Air Force with his last assignment as a squadron safety officer. He obtained the highest security clearance in the Air Force, which at that time which was for Critical Nuclear Weapon Design Information. Don was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1990 and received the USAF Commendation Medal. He then became a state police officer from 1991 to 2007 and has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. He had many duties, including his role as a hand-to-hand combat and active shooter instructor.

He began working in schools in 1996 as part of a federal anti-school violence program which placed police officers in schools. In 2003, he was recognized as the Law Enforcement Education Officer of the Year for the United States by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms for his work in combating school violence.

He has been a certified instructor in more than 40 state, federal and National Safety Council programs. In total, he has taught more than 1,000 law enforcement, safety and leadership courses and instructed over 50,000 people. Don has studied more than 100 school and workplace shootings and has responded to three active shooter events. Don is a practitioner for emergency risk assessments through the National Institute of Crime Prevention. Don previously worked for the National Safety Council and came to the NDSC in 2013.

Doug Bohl

Sr. Territory Manager
Ansell

Doug Bohl is with Ansell Gloves from Mandan, ND. He has been in the safety industry for around 28 years and with Ansell since 2013.

Dustin Workman

MS, CSP, OAT
Risk and EHS Director

Environmental, Health, and Safety Leader with more than 15 years of experience in risk management, compliance, and safety leadership across defense, manufacturing, and food distribution sectors. He currently oversees EHS operations for Sysco North Dakota and is a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Officer for the North Dakota National Guard. Dustin is an OSHA Authorized Trainer and ISO-certified auditor with expertise in DOT compliance, hazardous materials management, and advanced safety technologies. His academic background includes his Certified Safety Professional designation from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals, Hazardous Materials Awareness, Operations, and Technician from ProBoard, Toxic Chemical defense and Radiation Safety Officer from the Department of Defense, Master’s in Safety Management and ongoing doctoral research in Safety Sciences.

Ed Oslica

Domestic Security Strategist, US Secret Service Trainer
U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC)

Ed Oslica currently serves as a Domestic Security Strategist (DSS) with the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) where he interfaces with community safety partners to facilitate access to NTAC resources and the development of targeted violence prevention programs. His area of responsibility includes seven Midwestern states.

He is regionally stationed at the Secret Service Kansas City Field Office. In addition to developing relationships and responding to the needs of community partners, Mr. Oslica provides briefings on NTAC research findings, and assists with consultations on threat assessment policy development and on individual complex threat cases.

Prior to joining the Secret Service Mr. Oslica served as the Intelligence Specialist for the US Attorney, in the District of Nebraska. He served in this position for 14 years, assigned to the Criminal Division where he functioned as a liaison to the Joint Terrorism Task Force with the FBI Omaha Field Office. He conducted complex investigative analysis on a wide array of federal, state, local, and tribal criminal investigations. Additionally, he served as the Law Enforcement Coordinator and Suspicious Activity Reports coordinator, working with law enforcement and financial institutions across the state hosting and conducting training events.

Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office Mr. Oslica served 23 years in the U.S. Air Force, Security Forces and retired as a Master Sergeant. He earned a B.A. in Homeland Security from American Military University.

Dr. Geri Wolff

CEO/Founder of Hope Therapy Center PLLC | Doctor of Behavioral Health & Occupational Therapist
Hope Therapy Center PLLC

Dr. Geri Wolff is the owner and founder of Hope Therapy Center and a distinguished healthcare professional with over 28 years of experience in healthcare and insurance, including 15 years in private practice. She holds a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) and is a nationally registered, dual-state licensed Occupational Therapist (ND and MN OTR/L).

Dr. Wolff has completed extensive advanced training in integrated mental health practices, cognitive-behavioral group therapy, brainspotting (Levels 1 & 2), attachment trauma treatment, CogMed coaching, and holds an adult mental health micro-credential through the National Board of Occupational Therapy. Her diverse credentials allow her to integrate behavioral and occupational health strategies to address both the psychological and functional needs of her clients.

Through her work, Dr. Wolff helps individuals and organizations understand and overcome the effects of stress, trauma, and burnout. She bridges the gap between behavioral health and practical, evidence-based approaches that foster resilience and sustainable change. With a passion for education and empowerment, she delivers engaging workshops and presentations that raise awareness of trauma’s hidden impact on the mind and body while equipping audiences with actionable tools to strengthen personal and organizational well-being.

Jim Ash

Safety Consultant Manager, CSP, ARM
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

Jim Ash is WSI’s Safety Consultant Manager, supporting safety consultant operations across North Dakota. With 29 years of experience in heavy industrial construction, aerospace manufacturing, and workers’ compensation, he oversees WSI’s Safety Incentive Programs, helping businesses improve safety management. A Certified Safety Professional with an Associate in Risk Management designation, Jim also dedicated 19 years as a firefighter and Safety Officer with the City of Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department.

James Moe

UAS Operations – Chief Flight Instructor
John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences (JDOSAS)

James Moe -Mr. Moe is the UAS Operations – Chief Flight Instructor for the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences (JDOSAS).  A veteran of 20 years, he retired in 2010 at the rank for E-7 serving as a Production Superintendent in Aircraft Maintenance at Grand Forks AFB where he gained experience supporting a wide variety of aircraft systems and support equipment.  Upon retirement from active duty, he went on to enroll into the University of North Dakota obtaining a degree in UAS Operations as well as completing multiple FAA certifications for airplane, single and multi-engine land, rotorcraft helicopter with instrument ratings and certified flight Instructor for airplane.  Mr. Moe has also completed OEM training as an Insitu ScanEagle UAS pilot operator and maintenance provider.  He is currently responsible for monitoring UAS flight operations for over 200 students as is instrumental in providing flight and maintenance to support all UAS and C-UAS research efforts for the UAS Operations program.

Mr. Moe is currently teaching the ScanEagle Operators course and has the ability in instructor in multiple UAS courses.  His activities include managing UAS flight operations for both training and research, performing safety risk assessments and developing flight profiles and test plans.  He also manages UAS maintenance and aircraft modifications related to research.

Jay Skarphol

Speaker and Trainer
Trevor’s Story

Jay Skarphol is a former (HESS retired) Senior Environmental Health and Safety Specialist, and NDSC Safety Consultant (retired) with a wide range of experience in general industry, construction, and oil and gas safety. In his former positions, responsibilities included: safety management system reviews including incident investigations, safety training, on-site inspections, audits, and evaluations. Jay was also TapRooT Advanced Investigations (Facilitator/Instructor) Team Leader.

Jay Vietas

Senior Director, Research; PhD, CIH, CSP
National Safety Council

Jay Vietas brings over two decades of experience leading scientific and operational teams across government and military sectors. Most recently, he served as Chief of the Emerging Technologies Branch at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), where he led the $10M Nanotechnology Research Center and spearheaded national research initiatives on artificial intelligence and occupational health. Under his leadership, his team advanced over 80 cross-institute projects and contributed significantly to federal AI policy development.

Prior to joining NIOSH, Vietas served in executive leadership roles in the U.S. Air Force, including as Chief, Bioenvironmental Engineering. In this capacity, he oversaw programs and policy for health, safety, and environmental protection—leading strategy and training for 1,900 professionals supporting more than 500,000 personnel.

Vietas holds a PhD in Environmental Health from the University of Cincinnati, a Master of Science in Bioresource Engineering and a Master of Science in Environmental Health from Colorado State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the United States Air Force Academy. He is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and Certified Safety Professional. He resides in West Chester, OH.
Expertise: Emerging Technologies, Artificial Intelligence in Safety, Occupational Health Research.

Jodie Mjoen

CEO
Impact Dakota

Jodie J. Mjoen is CEO/President of Impact Dakota, leading strategies to modernize North Dakota’s manufacturing and help small manufacturers integrate technology and growth. He has 25+ years of experience in high-tech, industrial, military, and service-based manufacturing, focused on quality, process improvement, and leadership. His career includes roles at United Technologies Aerospace Systems and Pemstar. Jodie holds a BS in Business Administration from Minot State and an MA in Leadership from the University of Jamestown. He is a Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean practitioner, U.S. Army veteran, former mayor, and lives in Jamestown, ND with his wife and two daughters.

Joe Schommer

Business Development Manager, NFPA Educational Certificate of Achievement

Joe Schommer has been involved in the electrical maintenance and testing industry for over 30 years. Starting as a field service technician and progressing through the disciplines, Joe has experienced the importance of maintenance and electrical testing and how these practices improve reliability and ultimately safety within your electrical distribution system. Joe brings practical application experience for improving the safety of your facility by adhering to NETA and the NFPA 70E and 70B guidelines, merging electrical safety with electrical maintenance which are both critical in regards to your electrical safety program.

Joe Walch

Joe Walch
Fall Protection Specialist, 3M

Joe Walch is the 3M Fall Protection Specialist for MN, SD, and ND.  While being new to PPE sales, Joe has over 14 years of leading teams, elevating customer service, driving sales, and process improvement.  In his current role, Joe is solely focused on 3M’s fall protection and confined space portfolios, providing product, technical and demo awareness solutions.

John LaFrance

HPI Practitioner | MS, CSP, CIH
Idaho National Laboratory

John LaFrance is a seasoned Industrial Hygienist with over ten years of expertise in the chemical manufacturing and research sectors. He possesses a Master’s degree in Occupational Health from the University of Utah and is a Certified Safety Professional. Additionally, John is a skilled human performance practitioner and accomplished speaker, dedicated to helping others apply human performance principles to improve workplace safety.

John Snawder

Research Toxicologist, PhD, DABT, Fellow ATS

John Snawder worked at NIOSH as a toxicologist for 30 years and retired in 2022. His research focused on the role of metabolism in individual toxicity, the use of biological monitoring to measure exposures, evaluating the effects of exposures and the application and development of real-time technology and new sampling and analytical methods for exposure assessment. Dr. Snawder and his team coordinated workplace sampling and biological monitoring for many NIOSH studies including exposure assessment and biomonitoring studies for upstream oil and gas workers, military fuel handlers, construction workers, and first responders.

John Wagle

Application Engineer
Industrial Scientific Corporation
10 plus year experience in oil and gas

John Wagle has been a numerical modeler since 2010 in both upstream and midstream oil and gas, first as a geologist and now in hazardous gas dispersion, explosion, and fire modeling. He joined Industrial Scientific in 2021, primarily working with the SAFER package to present, demonstrate, and deploy the technology to both Industrial Scientific’s largest operators and to many local HazMat / first responder teams. He has presented hazardous gas detection workflows at dozens of conferences, trade shows, and industry events and has several publications and awards in chemical emergency response.

Dr. Josh Steffan

Education & Programs Division Chief | Ph.D.
North Dakota Parks and Recreation

Dr. Josh Steffan is the Education and Programs Division Chief for North Dakota Parks and Recreation. In this role, he oversees a team of passionate outdoor educators and historical interpreters across all fourteen ND state parks and leads statewide educational and special programing initiatives. Prior to joining ND Parks and Recreation, Dr. Steffan was an associate professor of agriculture and biology at Dickinson State University for nearly a decade. He earned a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from Louisiana State University and holds a B.S. degree in Environmental Health. He has published over 25 peer-reviewed research articles with many of them related to the inter-relationship between soils and human health.

Trooper Joshua Anderson

North Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper
North Dakota Highway Patrol

Trooper Joshua Anderson has over 20 years of service with the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the last 16 years as a MCSAP Trooper.  He is currently serving as the department’s MCSAP Coordinator.  He is an Associate Instructor for FMCSA’s National Training Center, certified to instruct North American Standard Inspections Part A and Part B, General Hazardous Materials, Cargo Tank Inspection, and Advanced Roadside Hazardous Materials.  He also performs roadside inspections and conduct Safety Investigations for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), as well as conducting training with enforcement and industry.  He is the Chair of the CVSA Hazardous Materials Committee.

Kacy Kirby

Health, Safety & Environmental Consultant
North Dakota Safety Council

Kacy has a bachelor’s degree in history and political science with a concentration in Secondary Education. After teaching High School for a few years, he got his start in the safety world while working for his Father’s Oilfield Service Company in Williston. Since moving to Fargo, Kacy has worked primarily as a safety specialist and manager in the manufacturing industry. During his time in safety, he has been certified to teach PEC Safeland, First Aid/CPR, Reasonable Suspicion, Forklift, as well as others. Kacy is really looking forward to concentrating on the training aspect of his education and helping to make each student successful.

Kam Alipour

National Protective Apparel Specialist, QSSP, National Member NFPA, National and Regional Member of NSC and ASSP
Cintas

Kam Alipour is the National Protective Apparel and Safety Specialist for the US and Canada in the direct purchase division. Cintas is North America’s largest provider of managed flame-resistant clothing programs. Kam has over 18 years of experience with Cintas and has a solid working knowledge of regulations and standards related to the care and maintenance of protective apparel and PPE. Kam’s professional experience with NFPA 70E lies in nearly every industry with customers ranging from local, regional and Fortune 500 companies. His passion is around helping companies with solutions around PPE and Protective clothing and helping to understand what’s out there and available to help keep your employees safe.

Kerry Gortmaker

Trooper/Operation Lifesaver Authorized Volunteer, AAS, MBA
NDHP/ Operation Lifesaver of the Dakotas

Kerri earned her AAS in Business in 2006. She then earned a massage therapy license & ran her own massage business until she began the LRSC police academy in 2011. Following the academy, was worked for Fargo PD until 2016 & then transitioned to BNSF Police as a Special Agent. During this time, she also graduated with an MBA from University of Mary in 2021. She transitioned to a Claims Rep with BNSF in 2022 while continuing to work with Cass County Sheriffs Office as a Licensed Reserve Deputy. After 8 years with BNSF, Kerri became a Trooper for the North Dakota Highway Patrol. Since 2016, Kerri has served as a Volunteer for Operation Lifesaver of the Dakotas promoting train safety to LE & the public.

Kevin Miiller

Speaker, Trainer, and Coach, PE, MBA

Kevin Miiller, PE, MBA, author of Finding Ways to Win & Doing More with Less and John C Maxwell certified speaker, trainer and coach. With 30 years of management experience, Kevin’s expertise ranges from construction foreman, engineering management, regional and national sales manager, and GM. Taking his success in athletics to the business world, he has brought about growth factors of 60%, 200%, 300%, and 500%, in different industries and each in less than 5 years. Kevin’s heart is to join forces with leaders and managers to help them solve problems, reduce stress and enjoy higher levels of success. Kevin believes that an organization’s workplace culture is the biggest competitive advantage, and that culture starts with good leaders.

Kurt Rhea

CEO
Rad Pros

13 years of training experience in the oilfield including TENORM, hazardous wastes, and employee safety. Kurt Rhea is the founder and CEO of Rad Pros, America’s best-known resource for the management of radioactive and hazardous materials, including NORM/TENORM. Kurt is well-known for bringing enthusiasm, humor, and sincerity in his presentations. With vast experience and stories from years of serving the oil & gas, mining, and water treatment sectors, attendees will hear about real-life issues. Rad Pros provides both consulting and field services and is a licensed radioactive materials contractor here in North Dakota. Kurt’s team also works across the country and internationally, decommissioning facilities and well sites, performing cleanups of spills, and managing/brokering special waste streams to the most economical and compliant facilities available. A strong supporter of the NDPC, API and the U.S. energy industry, Kurt and his team support multiple companies in North Dakota and across the U.S. with technical field services and regulatory consulting. Their services also include complete waste management and brokering, decontamination, demolition, and tank/vessel turnarounds in multiple states. Kurt and his wife, Tina, are active in their local church and have 2 adult children and 4 grandchildren. They actively support women struggling with human trafficking and pregnancy as well as our youth through organizations like FCA, Lifeline, Hope House, and Covered Colorado.

Leland Vetter

Welding Inspector and Trainer, Certificates and Diplomas from North Dakota State College of Science, (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector

After attending the North Dakota State College and working in the oil Industry, Leland has taught Welding and Machining for over 40 years at Eastern Wyoming College, Bismarck State College and training in the mining industry.

Lynette Borjeson Painter

Professor | PhD in Education, a graduate certificate in Cybersecurity Technology, several industry certifications, including SANS AIS247, AWS Certified AI Practitioner, and Azure AI-900.
Bismarck State College

Lynette Borjeson Painter teaches in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity programs. Her educational background includes a PhD in Education and a graduate certificate in Cybersecurity Technology. She holds several industry certifications, including SANS AIS247, AWS Certified AI Practitioner, and Azure AI-900. She has co-authored articles for NBEA’s Business Education Forum in addition to speaking at state, regional, and national conferences on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and cybersecurity-adjacent topics. Prior presentations include to the ND Rural Electric Cooperatives, ND AI Summit, the ND CTE Professional Development Conference, and BSC CyberCon.

Matthew Christmann

SOC and Service Delivery Manager
Iviry
Certified CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CompTIA CySA+ CE, Security+ CE

Mr. Matthew Christmann brings over 15 years of experience in the U.S. Marine Corps working in intelligence fields. He currently leads Iviry’s Security Operations Center (SOC) and Service Delivery Team, where he oversees cybersecurity operations, compliance support, and client engagement within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).

Mr. Christmann is a Certified CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP) and holds both CompTIA CySA+ CE and Security+ CE certifications. He has extensive experience conducting guided gap analyses to assess organizations’ current states of compliance, developing tailored policy and plan documentation, and managing remediation activities in alignment with NIST and CMMC requirements.

Trooper Michael Hinrichs

North Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper
North Dakota Highway Patrol

Trooper Mike Hinrichs has over 17 years of service with the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the first 11 years as a Motor Carrier Trooper where he enforced ND size and weight laws, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), as well as traffic duties. He transitioned to a MCSAP Trooper over 6 years ago.  He performs roadside inspections and conducts Safety Investigations for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), as well as conducting training with enforcement and industry.

Mitchell Rumple

HSE Director
Mann Enterprises LLC

Safety professional for over 40 years. I was a police officer in North Dakota for 36 years. I retired from the North Dakota Highway Patrol in 2014 following a 25.5 year career with that agency.

At the time of my retirement, I was assigned to the Motor Carrier Enforcement Division.

From 2014 to 2020 I worked for Nuverra Environmental Services as a field safety professional, DOT Compliance Manager, and Safety Director.

In 2020 I started and operated Compliance Services LLC, a consulting business that helped motor carriers with US DOT Compliance. In October of 2024 I began working for Mann Enterprises LLC, a trucking company working in western ND. I am currently the HSE Director for that Company.

Nathan Schulte

WSI Safety Consultant
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

Nathan is a Safety Consultant with WSI. He has experience in the Agricultural Industry, Law Enforcement, and the Mental Health field. Nathan is young in the world of safety, but is driven by research to implement new tools that can drive change in workplace safety and safety culture.

Nichole Schlosser

Claims Supervisor | Claims Supervisor & Trainer/ CWCP
WSI

Nichole has been with WSI for over 12 years, beginning her career as a claims adjuster and advancing to her current role as Claims Supervisor and Trainer. In this position, she is responsible for training new adjusters in the claims adjudication and management process, as well as ensuring adherence to WSI’s policies and procedures. Nichole also provides ongoing coaching to adjusters on the day-to-day management of their caseloads. She leads a team of highly skilled adjusters with extensive workers’ compensation experience and is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of new team members through mentorship and support.

Nicole Spoor

Employer Compliance Specialist, CWCP – Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional and APA – Associate in Premium Auditing
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

Nicole Spoor has worked in the Policyholder Services division of Workforce Safety & Insurance for 17 years. In her role as the Employer Compliance Specialist, Nicole provides individualized support to the various departments within the organization, assisting and educating both employers and WSI staff with understanding the workers’ compensation requirements in North Dakota. Nicole joined WSI with a diverse background in business and finance. Nicole holds the CWCP, Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional designation, as well as an APA, Associate in Premium Auditing.

Nikki Dixon-Foley

Partner & Master Consultant
Future-Sync, International
MS, Organizational and Leadership Development

Nikki holds an M.S. in Organizational Leadership and has a proven record of building intentional cultures, enhancing employee engagement, and coaching leaders to unlock their full potential. As a certified neuroscience leadership coach, she seamlessly integrates neuroscience principles into leadership strategies, fostering impactful and sustainable change. Nikki’s dynamic, hands-on approach to teaching, coaching, and organizational development challenges conventional wisdom, empowering individuals and teams to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Nikki’s philosophy of prioritizing “meaningful impact over ineffective activity” has led organizations to achieve prestigious accolades, including recognition from FORBES, B-Corps certification, and “Best Places to Work” honors. Renowned for her forward-thinking operational mindset, she specializes in implementing innovative organizational practices that redefine how people lead, collaborate, and drive success. With a deep passion for transformation, Nikki is dedicated to creating lasting legacies that inspire growth and excellence.

Paul Snyder

Director of UAS Operations
University of North Dakota

Professor Snyder is an Assistant Chair / Director of UAS Program for the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences and Lead for Autonomous Platforms at the University of North Dakota (UND). He continues to be active in aviation education with experience as an FAA Designated Pilot and Instructor Examiner, an OEM certified Insitu ScanEagle UAS pilot, Chief Flight Instructor, Associate Professor, and Safety Consultant for various aviation organizations. As a DOT-certified SMS trainer, Professor Snyder is a member of UND SMS Committee and Events Review Team (ERT), analyzing flight data and conducting safety risk assessments to reduce risk within the organization. He has worked with the FAA to assist UND Aerospace in being recognized as meeting active conformance for UND’s Part 141 Pilot School and Part 145 Maintenance Repair Station under the FAA SMS Voluntary Program. Professor Snyder also actively teaches safety management systems, aviation safety, unmanned aircraft systems, and various advanced flight courses for the UND.

Detective Phillip Worley

Detective/Task Force Officer
Dunn County Sheriff’s Office

Phillip Worley is a seasoned law enforcement professional with 25 years of distinguished service in Georgia and North Dakota. He currently serves as a Narcotics Detective with the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office, bringing a broad and diverse background in investigations, narcotics enforcement, supervisory leadership, internal affairs, and professional standards.

A POST-certified officer in both Georgia and North Dakota, Phillip holds a Bachelor of Science in
Criminal Justice and has completed over 2,500 hours of certified law enforcement training. His career has included roles as a Patrolman, Patrol Sergeant, Narcotics Investigator, Internal Affairs Investigator, Training Officer, Warrant Unit Supervisor, and Instructor in both general topics and firearms. He has completed the FBI firearms instructor course and is also certified as a Defensive Tactics Instructor in Georgia.

In addition to his law enforcement experience, Phillip is a U.S. Army veteran, he joined the U.S. Army in 2011 at 37 years old (turned 38 seven days after arriving to basic training). He has leadership and logistics expertise, having served as a Range Safety Officer and Heavy Truck Operator. Known for his integrity, dedication to ethical policing, and commitment to officer development, he has played a key role in mentoring new officers and maintaining interagency cooperation at the local, state and federal levels.

Randy Wegge

Loss Control Ergonomic Program Manager | BS, OTA/L, CEES
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

I’ve been employed at WSI for 24 years. My background is in Occupational Therapy, I also hold a certification in the field of ergonomics. I worked in the return-to-work department for my first 6 years at WSI and have been in the Loss Control department for the last 18 years. I’m currently a manager in the Loss Control dept…my main job function is overseeing the ergonomic grant program.

Dr. Robin Landwehr

Integrated Care Director | Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Spectra Health North Dakota

Dr. Robin Landwehr is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and the Integrated Care Director at Spectra Health North Dakota. Robin oversees behavioral integration efforts in the health centers and provides brief behavioral interventions with patients who in clinic for primary care visits. She holds a Master of Science degree in mental health counseling from Capella University, and a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree from Arizona State University. In addition to her work in primary care, Robin has served as a manager at a large domestic violence shelter, a coordinator at a homeless shelter for at-risk youth, and a program manager for CHAD, as well as other roles. She is a certified instructor in the Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) and Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) suicide prevention programs. Robin is a member of the Disaster Mental Health (DMH) team for the American Red Cross – Dakotas Region.

Robert Nocco

Health Science Consultant, CSP, CIH, CFPS, DABT, RRPT

Bob Nocco has nearly 35 years of technical safety and process safety experience, both upstream and downstream operations and has worked Chevron and Shell. He is actively involved in the several professional and trade organizations: American Institute of Chemical Engineers, ASSP, AIHA, and previously involved in API as well as nSTEPS and NIOSH O&G NORA Council.

Ryan Bouda

Professional Development Specialist
LEAP Training and Coaching

Ryan Bouda is a dynamic speaker, coach, and trainer with years of experience taking leaders, teams and organizations to their next level of greatness. He has spoken to thousands of people on cultivating leadership, building teams and improving communication. Ryan has a master’s degree in leadership development and is certified in Conversational Intelligence®. His passion is to develop a company’s greatest asset: their people. Ryan has worked with companies such as NASA, Hospital Corporation of America, Habitat for Humanity, Nebraska Medicine, and Medical Solutions.

Ryan Pietzsch

Program Technical Advisor – Driver Safety
National Safety Council

Ryan is the lead subject matter expert on driver safety at the National Safety Council. An innovative leader and educator with expertise in risk management and strategic planning, Ryan is focused on total quality improvement in safety on the road.

He is responsible for advancing NSC driver training content, directing the NSC International Advisory Committee and advising the Council on matters of driving regulations and standards. Ryan has conducted large-scale needs assessments and has developed training in a diverse array of disciplines. He is a member of several transportation safety advisory groups and actively participates with the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies’ Committee on Operator Education, Training and Licensing, and Senior Driver and Young Driver Subcommittees. He is also an active advisor to the National Distracted Driving Coalition, an NTSB initiated coalition to address the epidemic of distracted driving.

An Iowa native, Ryan began his safety career as a firefighter, progressing through the fire service ranks to Career Fire Lieutenant in the West Des Moines Fire Department. He served as Public Information Officer and Safety Officer at various emergency events, and in addition to his fire and EMS duties, Ryan took on an active role in establishing total quality management in the municipal government. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Grand View College in Des Moines, IA, and his Master’s in Safety, Security and Emergency Management from Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY.

Samantha Bouda

LEAP Training and Coaching

Samantha Bouda is an expert curriculum designer and educator with over seven years of experience creating learning experiences that inspire behavioral change and organizational growth. She holds a Master’s in Learning & Technology and has developed and delivered programs for leaders across industries—including speaking at NASA. Beyond her professional work, Samantha serves as Chapter Lead for the nonprofit For Goodness Cakes and brings her passion for teamwork and excellence to everything she does.

Scott Gaddis

VP Safety and Health
Interlex Technologies

Scott Gaddis leads thought leadership and is Vice President and Global Practice Leader of Safety and Health for Intelex Technologies in Toronto, Canada. Scott leads the building of partnerships with key clients and other top influencers in EHS. Before joining Intelex, Scott was Vice President of Global Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability for Coveris High-Performance Packaging Company in Chicago, Illinois. Before that, he spent five years as Executive Director of Global EHS for Bristol-Myers Squibb, eighteen years with the Kimberly-Clark Corporation in various senior EHS leadership roles, and ended as the Global Director of Occupational Safety and Health. Scott started his career with the GE company, spending five years as EHS Director in the Motors Division.

Mr. Gaddis has been published in various EHS trade journals and has lectured at National and International EHS conferences. He recently authored and published the book “From Participation to Partnership—A Journey to Safety at the Frontline.” Scott is a Special Government Employee supporting the Department of Labor and has received numerous awards, including VPPA Mentor of the Year and others recognizing his leadership in EHS. Scott is an Occupational Safety and Health graduate from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky.

Scott Overson

OSHA Area Director
Occupational Safety & Health Administration

Scott Overson joined the Occupational Safety & Health Administration in February of 2003 as a compliance safety and health officer. Prior to joining OSHA, he spent five years in the construction industry as an industrial sandblaster and painter. He also served as a Fire Captain with 17 years in the fire service. He graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety & Environmental Health.

Scott Stone

General Manager – Lockout Tagout Division | Safety Management
Rockford Systems

Scott has more than 25 years of experience in the safety industry developing and managing safety management systems that drive cultural change for organizations. Over his career, he has worked as a safety leader for outsource facilities and production maintenance organizations, worked in the safety services industry where he developed and successfully launched Lockout/Tagout services and worked in the safety management software industry. Scott also has experience working as a Six Sigma Black Belt applying advanced statistical and problem-solving techniques for process improvement.

Stacey Fick

Health, Safety & Environmental Consultant
North Dakota Safety Council

Stacey has been in the safety training industry since 2013. She has taught various classes such as OHSA 10&30, Safeland, Core Compliance, FA/CPR/AED, LOTO, Confined Space and many other courses over the last 10+ years.

Stacey believes that safety is not just a requirement. Safety is a mindset that starts with education, awareness, and accountability, and achieves that goal through innovative training methods and a culture of continuous improvement in workplace safety.

Stacey Kautzman

Unit Director, Special Investigations
Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI)

Stacey Kautzman is the Special Investigations Unit Director at Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI). She started her career at WSI in 1997 within the Claims Department where she served in multiple positions to include Senior Claims Adjuster and Claims Unit Supervisor. Stacey joined the SIU in 2008 and served as a Paralegal before becoming the Director in 2014.

Tim Hall

Health, Safety & Environmental Consultant
North Dakota Safety Council

Tim’s first job out of high school was working in a mine in 1997. He has done everything in a mine from shovel coal to being an interim mine manager. Tim has done extensive work in engineering, environmental, training, safety, maintenance, and production, and has been a supervisor since 1998, so each area of work is at the highest level of exposure. Being versatile helps with perspective when looking at a safety issue. Tim is a certified MSHA instructor, a certified blaster, and has a surface coal foreman certificate.

Travis Black

Director of Technical Services | Bachelor’s of Science in Industrial Safety Engineering / 20+ Years in the Oil and Gas industry, specifically with Crane, Rigging and Transportation / Lean Six Sigma-Green Belt / OSHA 501, 511
ProLift Rigging

With just over two decades of experience in the crane, rigging, and specialized transportation industry, Travis Black serves as Vice President of Technical Services at ProLift Rigging, where he oversees key administrative and operational departments including Safety, Training, Engineering, HR, Recruiting, IT, Quality, Ministry, and DOT Compliance.

Travis began his career in the field as a swamper for an oilfield crane service company, gaining hands-on experience in complex lifting, heavy haul, and machinery-moving operations across multiple sectors. These sectors range from oil and gas to data centers, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. This practical foundation continues to shape his leadership philosophy and decision-making today.

A servant leader at heart, Travis is known for his humility, integrity, and deep commitment to developing people and processes that drive a culture of safety through operational ownership, resulting in sustainable growth. He has played a pivotal role in restructuring ProLift’s administrative functions, building a People-first framework that aligns compliance, performance, and culture.

Guided by his core strengths of Responsibility, Analytical Thinking, and Focus, and grounded in faith and purpose, Travis challenges traditional boundaries while honoring the industry’s long-standing principles of safety, precision, and stewardship.

When he’s not driving organizational strategy, Travis is mentoring emerging leaders and helping teams mature through operational excellence and healthy relationships, which is a hallmark of his belief that strong people build strong companies.

Dr. Travis Maddock

President, Owner, Lead Consultant | MS, PhD
Dakota Global Consulting

Travis Maddock, Ph.D., is the founder and owner of Dakota Global Consulting, LLC. Travis has over 20 years of practical experience in livestock production and food and feed manufacturing and advises companies both in the US and abroad. He is accredited to teach HACCP and Preventive Controls for both Human and Animal Food. Travis earned his baccalaureate degrees in animal science and education from North Dakota State University, a M.S. in meat science from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in ruminant nutrition from North Dakota State University. He served as a post-doctoral research fellow with the University of Florida, studying the economics and biology of nutritional efficiency in beef cattle systems. Travis’s professional affiliations include the American Society of Animal Science, American Meat Science Association, and the National Cattleman’s Beef Association. He currently serves on the North Dakota Beef Commission. Beyond consulting, Travis remains connected with production agriculture as the planning and marketing partner for Angle M Cattle Company, a beef-cattle based agribusiness located in North Dakota that was recently recognized by the State of North Dakota as exceptional for its conservation and management of natural resources. Travis resides in Davenport, ND with his wife, Mistte, and two children.

Wyatt Bradbury

Principal – Health and Safety
Adjunct Professor, MEng, CSP, CHST, CIT

Wyatt Bradbury serves as a Principal Health and Safety for Avetta and is part of the Department of Engineering Faculty and the University of Alabama Birmingham teaching Professional Ethics and Introduction to System Safety for the Advanced Safety Engineering and Management Program. He has experience in aquatic and recreation risk management, electrical construction, powerline safety, rail safety, and safety consulting. Mr. Bradbury holds CSP, CHST, and CIT certifications from the BCSP and a Master of Engineering in Advanced Safety Engineering and Management from the University of Alabama Birmingham.

Wyatt Bradbury is a Past-President of the National Capital Chapter, and is a member of the Advisory Group Operations Committee for ASSP. Bradbury currently serves as the National Capital Chapter Advisory Group Representative. Bradbury also supports the BCSP Qualified Academic Programs by being a part of the QAP Chair Committee.

Wyatt Bradbury is on the Drafting Committee for the ANSI Z590.6 Technical Report Guidance for the sizing, fit, selection, and use of personal protective equipment and apparel marketed toward women. He also serves on the Drafting Committee of the ANSI Z490.1 OSH Training Standard. Wyatt Bradbury is also a member of the ANSI Z10 Committee and the US TAG ISO/TC 283 supporting the development of ISO 45001.

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