Nicholas Richardson, Safety Director

Can you share a bit about your branch, military background, and the role you served during your service?

I am Major Nicholas Richardson, and I am currently serving as an Inspector General (IG) Officer for the 81st Readiness Division at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Prior to this role, I was the Conus Replacement Center Battalion Operations Officer S-3 for the 2nd Battalion, 309th Regiment (5th Armored Brigade) at Fort Bliss, Texas. With a background encompassing seven years of Active Duty and over six years in the Army Reserve, I've held diverse staff positions. My military journey began when I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Murray State University and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Artillery Branch in May 2010.

My experiences include deployments to Afghanistan, where I served as a Fire Direction Officer and Fire Support Officer supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Over the years I've transitioned through various roles, including Battalion S-1, Brigade Strength Manager, Brigade S-1 and Battalion S-3, before becoming an Inspector General. My extensive military education includes courses in Artillery, Adjutant General, Command and General Staff College and specialized training such as Company Commander and Observer Coach Trainer.

I am honored to have received several awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal (2 OLC), Army Commendation Medal (1 OLC), Army Achievement Medal (1 OLC), Army Reserve Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon (1 Bronze Star), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Ribbon, Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, NATO ISAF Medal, International March of Diekrich Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation (1 OLC), Combat Action Badge. Major Richardson was also awarded the Order of Saint Barbara by the National Artillery Association.

What inspired you to join the military in the first place, and how has that experience shaped you personally and professionally?

Joining the army after the 9/11 attacks was a deeply personal decision rooted in profound patriotism, duty, and a fervent desire to safeguard the nation. The events of September 11, 2001, cast a shadow over the United States, stirring an unwavering commitment among individuals, myself included, to actively contribute to the security and defense of our country. I was driven by a determination to respond decisively to such heinous acts, joined the military with the resolve to fight against terrorism and ensure that similar atrocities would never happen again.

Additionally, for some like myself, military service became a cherished family tradition, adding a layer of significance to the decision. Having parents, grandparents, or other relatives who had served in the military created a strong familial connection to this noble profession. Embracing this legacy, I, like many others, chose to follow in the footsteps of my family, further deepening the sense of duty and pride associated with serving in the armed forces. In the face of national crisis, this combination of patriotism, a response to terrorism, and a dedication to upholding family traditions propelled me to make the commitment to defend our country and preserve its values.

How did you transition from the military to your current role at CEG? Were there any unique challenges or opportunities you encountered during this transition?

Transitioning from the military to my role as a Safety Manager and later a Director of Safety at CEG Solutions was a process that required adapting my military skills to the civilian work environment. One of the challenges I faced was navigating the differences in workplace culture and communication styles between the military and civilian sectors. However, this transition also presented unique opportunities. My military background equipped me with strong leadership, discipline, and problem-solving abilities, which I seamlessly integrated into my role as a Safety Director . Moreover, my military training Occupational Safety and Health provided a solid foundation for handling safety challenges effectively in the civilian workplace. Overall, while there were initial challenges, my military experience ultimately positioned me well to excel in my current position, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the safety and well-being of CEG and its employees.

Can you highlight some skills or values from your military service that you find particularly valuable in your work at CEG?

Certainly, my military service has endowed me with invaluable skills and values that have proven instrumental in my role at CEG. The discipline instilled in me during my military training has translated seamlessly into ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines within the workplace. Additionally, my experience in leadership and effective communication, honed in the military, has enabled me to efficiently manage safety teams and convey crucial safety information to employees at CEG.

Moreover, the ability to remain calm under pressure, a trait cultivated in high-stress military environments, has been crucial in handling emergency situations and making swift, well-informed decisions in the face of workplace challenges. Teamwork and collaboration, which are core military values, have played a significant role in fostering a safety-conscious culture at CEG. By encouraging teamwork and emphasizing collective responsibility for safety, we have established a robust safety framework within the organization.

Lastly, the military's emphasis on adaptability and continuous learning has empowered me to stay updated with the latest safety standards and technologies, ensuring that our safety protocols at CEG align with industry best practices. Overall, the blend of these skills and values from my military service has greatly contributed to enhancing safety awareness, preparedness, and overall well-being within CEG.

In what ways do you think your military experience contributes to CEG's success and its commitment to serving clients effectively?

My military experience brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to CEG, directly contributing to the company's success and its commitment to serving clients effectively. The military taught me the importance of meticulous planning, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, all of which are crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of both our employees and clients at CEG. Additionally, my background instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, accountability, and integrity, which are vital traits in upholding CEG's reputation for reliability and professionalism.

Are there any memorable experiences or lessons from your time in the military that you apply to your work here at CEG?

Certainly, my experiences and lessons from my time in the military have profoundly influenced my approach as a Safety Director at CEG. One of the most impactful lessons I carry from my military service is the significance of thorough preparation and attention to detail. In the military, overlooking even the smallest detail could have significant consequences. This mindset translates directly into my work at CEG, where I meticulously analyze safety protocols and procedures, leaving no room for oversight. This attention to detail ensures that our safety measures are comprehensive and effective, minimizing the risks our employees might face.

Could you share an achievement or project at CEG that you're particularly proud of and how your military experience played a role in it?

Certainly, one of my proudest achievements as a Safety Director at CEG has been the successful implementation of ISO 45001, the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems. This certification represents a significant milestone for our organization, showcasing our unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for our employees, aligning seamlessly with my military background.

My military experience played a substantial role in this accomplishment. The military instilled in me a deep appreciation for structured processes and meticulous attention to detail. Applying these principles, I meticulously assessed our existing safety protocols, identifying areas of improvement and aligning them with the stringent requirements of ISO 45001. Through thorough analysis and strategic planning, we streamlined our safety procedures, ensuring they met international standards while remaining practical and applicable to our daily operations.

Additionally, my military background in leadership and team collaboration was instrumental in fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork within our organization. I utilized military-inspired leadership strategies to inspire our team, emphasizing the shared responsibility of achieving and maintaining ISO 45001 compliance. Clear communication, defined roles, and a sense of collective purpose, values ingrained in military service, were pivotal in ensuring that every team member understood their role in the certification process.

What advice would you give to other veterans who are transitioning into civilian careers, especially those considering opportunities at CEG?

Transitioning from the military to a civilian career, especially in the field of safety management at a company like CEG, can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. From my perspective as a Safety Director, I would offer the following advice to fellow veterans making this transition:

• Leverage Your Military Skills: Your military training equips you with a unique set of skills such as leadership, discipline, adaptability, and crisis management. These skills are incredibly valuable in the civilian workplace. Recognize how these abilities can be applied to your new role, especially in safety management, where leadership and quick decision-making are vital.

• Continuous Learning and Certification: Stay updated with industry standards and certifications related to safety management. Certifications such as OSHA certifications or specialized safety management courses can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise. The military values continuous learning, and this mindset is equally important in the civilian job market.

• Effective Communication: Communication skills are key in any workplace. In the military, clear and concise communication can be a matter of life and death. Apply this same level of precision to your communication at CEG. Ensure that safety protocols are communicated clearly, and encourage an open dialogue with colleagues and subordinates to promote a safety-conscious culture.

• Embrace Teamwork: The military places a significant emphasis on teamwork. Fostering a collaborative environment where everyone understands their role in ensuring safety is paramount. Encourage teamwork, mutual support, and shared responsibility among your team members.

Remember, the skills and values you gained in the military are not only transferable but highly sought after in the civilian workplace. Embrace your transition with confidence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn, and you'll find a fulfilling and successful career at CEG or any other organization you choose to work with.

How does being part of a company that recognizes and celebrates veterans through initiatives like the Veteran Resource Group (VRG) feel?

Being part of a company like CEG that recognizes and celebrates veterans through initiatives like the Veteran Resource Group (VRG) is incredibly meaningful. It creates a supportive and inclusive work environment where the unique skills and experiences of veterans are not just acknowledged but valued.

Lastly, what are your aspirations and goals for the future?

The future holds exciting possibilities and important responsibilities. As someone dedicated to ensuring the well-being of employees, my aspirations and goals revolve around creating safer workplaces and contributing to the broader safety industry. In essence, my aspirations and goals as a safety director revolve around continuous improvement, education, and community engagement. By embracing innovation, fostering a strong safety culture, and actively participating in the safety discourse within our industry, I believe we can create workplaces where employees thrive, free from unnecessary risks, and where safety is a shared responsibility and a source of pride for everyone involved.