Collaboration as a Strategic Weapon in Safety Training

Doug Downs, Stories and Strategies

Big strides in safety training take centre stage in Episode 50 of The Safety Moment podcast.

In this episode we unpack an initiative set to redefine industrial safety standards. Debbie Shelley from Global Training and Jeff Mulligan with Aztec Safety join Mike Sullivan. Together, they introduce us to the birth of the Alternate Locate Provider training program, a first in Canadian safety practices.

Global Training, known for its leadership in safety training, has joined forces with Aztec Safety, a company that has grown exponentially in the online safety training sector. This collaboration is not just a unity in the industry; it represents a shift in the standard, showcasing that cooperation over competition can lead substantial advancements in the field. 

Transitioning from being a CEO of a financial institution to becoming a pivotal figure in safety training, Jeff's path is a testament to the evolving nature of the safety training sector. "Collaboration is a strategic weapon," he asserts, highlighting the innovative partnership between Global Training and Aztec as a significant step forward for the industry.

This episode isn't just about the birth of a new training program; it's a narrative of how traditional competitors can come together for the greater good of the industry and society. The partnership between Debbie and Jeff's companies marks a pivotal moment in safety training, setting a new standard for cooperation over competition. Their combined efforts have not only created the Alternate Locate Provider training program but have also paved the way for a more collaborative future in safety education.

The significance of their work was underscored at the Utility Safety Partners' 40th Anniversary Conference, where the session on the Alternate Locate Provider program was, as Mike describes, "standing room only." This overwhelming interest is a clear indicator of the industry's hunger for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts in safety training.

Beyond the immediate impact of their program, Debbie and Jeff also discuss the broader implications of their work, touching on the potential for their training program to be adopted beyond the borders of Canada. "The program itself was designed to be borderless," Debbie explains, highlighting their vision for a future where their training can impact safety protocols globally.

Jeff echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of establishing a strong foundation within Alberta before expanding further. "We have to perfect what we're doing in this environment right now," he states, outlining their cautious yet ambitious approach to broadening the program's reach.

As wrapped up in Episode 50 of The Safety Moment podcast, it's clear that Debbie Shelley and Jeff Mulligan are not just leaders in their respective companies; they are pioneers at the forefront of a shift toward a more collaborative and innovative future in utility safety training. Their discussion leaves listeners with a sense of optimism for the evolution of safety practices, driven by the power of collaboration and the relentless pursuit of excellence in training standards.