The safety sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with a noticeable generational handover taking place. Unlike many other industries, safety professionals largely remained in their roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this stability has led to an impending wave of retirements, which is now reshaping the landscape of the industry.

At the OSHA Training Center at Chabot-Las Positas, we are witnessing this shift firsthand. In our recent classes, 30-40% of students are just beginning their journey in the safety field. Similarly, on our social media platforms, 60-70% of our new followers come from entry-level safety positions. This influx signals the growing demand for safety professionals as older generations retire, creating a vacuum that is quickly being filled by new job opportunities.

Moreover, there has been a noticeable uptick in enrollment for basic and awareness-level courses, while demand for advanced courses has declined. This trend suggests that many individuals entering the field are in the early stages of their careers and are seeking foundational knowledge. Our instructors are also part of this generational shift. Several of our long-serving educators have retired this academic year, and they are being replaced by younger professionals eager to share their expertise with the next generation of safety leaders.

The retirement wave, while challenging, presents a tremendous opportunity for those looking to build a career in the safety sector. With the increasing need for new talent, the safety profession is experiencing a significant transformation, opening doors for individuals ready to step into these critical roles.

Sincerely,

Naci Ozgur, PhD, CIH, CSP, CHMM

Job Coordinator

Director, OSHA Training Institute Education Center at Chabot-Las Positas Community College District