2026 Safety Week Kickoff Meeting at the Oregon Zoo
Meeting title
Focus on the Human, and Safer Work Will Follow
Description
Safety programs in construction have made significant progress through stronger policies, training, and compliance efforts. Yet leaders continue to face rising burnout, growing disconnection, and ongoing workforce strain. So what can leaders do to build cultures of wellbeing that actually show up on the jobsite?
As SafeBuild Alliance kicks off Safety Week, this session will explore what it means to center workplaces around fundamental human needs. Drawing on evidence-based frameworks and practical workplace examples, participants will examine how factors such as energy and recovery, connection, psychological safety, and purpose influence how people communicate, make decisions, and look out for one another on the jobsite.
Participants will gain practical insights into how leaders can strengthen both safety culture and workforce wellbeing by intentionally focusing on the people doing the work. When organizations prioritize the needs of the people doing the work, they create environments where teams communicate more effectively, look out for one another, and perform at a higher level.
Our keynote speaker is Chase Sterling of Wellbeing Think Tank. Chase is a leading expert in workplace wellbeing, with over two decades of experience helping organizations create cultures where employees thrive. She is known for amplifying experts over influencers and providing educational events that support individual and organizational wellbeing.
Location & Parking
We are pleased to return to the newly renovated Cascade Crest Ballroom at the Oregon Zoo! Arrive by 6:30 to enjoy breakfast, chat with old (and new) friends, and grab a great seat. Follow the signs and enter through the Oregon Zoo main entrance. Be sure to arrive early enough to park (free parking until 9:30am) and make your way into the building.
Affiliate Meeting Sponsorship
We are now accepting sponsorships in support of the event. Affiliate sponsorships are $500, and include your logo and recognition at the event, on our website, and in our communications.
Thank you to our Title & Elite Sponsors
ICON level membership includes Elite Safety Week sponsorship recognition. If you would like to upgrade your membership to ICON, contact us here.
