Verna Liezl Perdon
SMACNA is proud to announce that Verna Liezl Perdon, a Mental Health and Psychological Safety Specialist with the Modern Niagara Group, is the recipient of the 2024 SMACNA Safety Sponsorship. She exemplifies the core values of the SMACNA Safety Sponsorship Program and the Sheet Metal Industry BE4ALL initiative. As a woman working in the construction sector, she is a strong advocate for creating a diverse and inclusive industry that prioritizes the well-being of its workforce.
Verna, inspired by her father's workplace injury, has dedicated her career to occupational health and safety since 2011. Currently leading the development of a mental health program at Modern Niagara, she recognizes the industry's struggles with mental health, substance abuse, and suicide. She aims to leverage this opportunity to enhance her expertise and contribute to a safer construction industry, particularly with a focus on mental health and wellbeing.
This award represents an opportunity for Verna to attend the prestigious National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo. This century-old event offers unparalleled access to cutting-edge technologies, educational resources, and an opportunity to network with pioneers in the safety industry.
The Safety Sponsorship program is a collaborative endeavor between SMACNA's Safety and Health Committee and BE4ALL. It underscores the industry's unwavering commitment to fostering a workforce that thrives on the exchange of knowledge, inclusion, and advancement while offering a valuable opportunity to a deserving SMACNA member who aligns with the vision and goals of the BE4ALL initiative.
Verna talked about the award and what it means for her career and the industry; " I am incredibly grateful to have been selected for this award and to have had the opportunity to attend the prestigious National Safety Council Safety Congress & Expo in Orlando, FL. This will be my first time attending, so I am excited to learn about the emerging trends and network with other safety professionals. The knowledge I will gain will be invaluable. I am eager to share this experience with my team and others. As a passionate health and safety professional, I believe that promoting mental health awareness, diversity, and inclusion in the industry is important. Collaboration and knowledge sharing with others are key to finding solutions and ensuring everyone stays healthy and safe in the workplace. Again, thank you, SMACNA Safety and Health Committee, in partnership with the BE4ALL initiative, for this amazing opportunity."
In line with her program commitment and to further amplify the impact, Verna will present her experiences from the (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo to the SMACNA Safety and Health Committee during their winter meeting. Her insights and feedback will play a pivotal role in guiding them as they continue to shapethe future of the Safety Sponsorship Program.
SMACNA congratulates Verna Liezl Perdon and looks forward to her contributions to a more inclusive and safety-focused sheet metal industry!
