Schneider Bulk’s Bridgette Gerl named to NSC’s 2016 Rising Stars of Safety

The National Safety Council (NSC) recently released its class of 2016 Rising Stars of Safety, naming Bridgette Gerl, Schneider Bulk Division safety and training manager, to the elite list.

The Rising Stars program shines a light on safety-minded individuals who have a proven track record of safety leadership and promote continuous safety improvement. To be considered, honorees need to have at least five years of direct safety experience, some level of safety oversight and demonstrate safety leadership through practical examples.

Based on Gerl’s leadership attributes and her ongoing commitment to raising the safety bar, Ken Vaughn, director of safety for the Schneider Dedicated and Bulk divisions, nominated her for this prestigious accolade.

“Bridgette won’t accept the status quo as the answer and exemplifies our belief that safety is paramount in an organization,” Vaughn said. “She is well respected by both her peers and leaders, who all turn to her for suggestions when they are looking to build upon our already strong safety processes.”

Nominees’ submissions were rated against the following five statements, each based on a five-point scale:

• The leadership attributes described in the application set the individual apart from his or her peers

• There is substantial evidence that the individual initiated and/or led safety initiatives, resulting in positive, measurable outcomes

• The individual engaged his or her peers to transform safety culture both on and off the job

• The individual exhibits strong personal beliefs in the value of safety to business operations

• There is no doubt that the individual is a rising star in the field of occupational safety, health and the environment.

Throughout her career at Schneider, Gerl has led and implemented several impressive safety initiatives. For example, she regularly delivers safety-focused communications to driver and operations associates and develops training curriculum for driving associates. Additionally, Gerl implements ongoing campaigns to keep safety at the forefront of associates’ minds throughout the changing seasons.

“Schneider takes safety very seriously, and it’s a true testament to our mission when associates take the initiative to live and continuously improve that core value,” said Tom DiSalvi, vice-president of safety and loss prevention at Schneider. “Bridgette’s safety-focused nature is a true asset for the organization, and more importantly, her fellow associates.”