Safety First: How one TSTC program is turning ‘sticklers for the rules’ into professionals

Workplace safety is one of the most essential priorities for any company.

Regardless of the industry, most companies employ a safety inspector to maintain standards, including those outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

“The primary goal of health and safety inspections is to prevent accidents, injuries and other incidents in the workplace,” said Teresa Purcell, an Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance (OSEC) instructor at Texas State Technical College’s Abilene campus. “Companies often see lower insurance costs when fewer reportable injuries occur because safety inspectors help identify and prevent hazards.”

Purcell said the college’s OSEC program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to help companies develop effective safety and environmental programs. The program is offered at the Abilene, Fort Bend and Waco campuses.

“Students learn how to evaluate whether a workplace is safe and develop a strong foundation in safety, health and environmental topics,” she said. “They gain hands-on experience in water, soil and air sampling and testing procedures, as well as knowledge of OSHA regulations in construction and general industry. They also learn how to conduct environmental health site assessments.”

Industry Options

The opportunity to work in a variety of industries attracted Elizabeth Dixon, of Zephyr, to the program. After working as a waitress and in other jobs, she said she felt unfulfilled and wanted a change.

“I was ready for a career,” Elizabeth said. “I saw TSTC on social media and learned about the program, so I decided to look into the field.”

She said her first visit to the Abilene lab reinforced her decision.

“It was mind-blowing,” Elizabeth said. “Everything was so well organized, which creates a better learning experience.”

Elizabeth said her attention to rules made the program a natural fit.

“I love organization and cleanliness, and this program really stood out to me for those reasons,” she said.

She also noted the strong job demand in the region.

“There are so many opportunities for safety inspectors in this area,” she said. “This career offers a lot of potential for growth.”

Elizabeth said the program’s performance-based education structure allows her to balance school and work.

“I have felt welcome at TSTC,” she said. “I don’t have to choose between making a living and going to school. TSTC gives me the opportunity to earn a degree while supporting myself and my family.”

TSTC’s performance-based education model allows students to work at their own pace with the assistance of online lectures, videos and other learning content. 

Added Credibility

Calvin Tiner, a graduate of the program and now facilities manager for TSTC’s West Texas campuses, said earning an associate degree in OSEC adds credibility across industries.

“That degree gives you credibility in a wide range of fields,” he said.

Calvin said safety professionals can transition between industries with ease, such as moving from food inspection to manufacturing environments.

Before returning to TSTC, Calvin worked as a safety inspector and wanted to strengthen his expertise.

“I wanted to put my money where my mouth is when it comes to safety,” he said. “I wanted to be able to explain not just what to do, but why it matters and why things are done a certain way.”

Program Growth

Calvin said he is encouraged by the program’s growth. When he was enrolled, about 10 students were in the program. Today, enrollment exceeds 40.

“With the amount of construction happening, especially with data centers, there is a strong demand for safety inspectors,” he said. “There is significant growth in this field, and having highly educated safety inspectors benefits both employees and businesses.”

Purcell said that versatility is key to student success.

“This program provides a strong foundation in both safety and environmental areas,” she said. “Graduates leave with the ability to work in a variety of environments.”