Don Rachal – Assistant Superintendent and Safety Coordinator

What is the most exciting thing about working in this business?  The most exciting thing about working in this business is Safety. Safety is one of the most significant rewards I could ever have. The feeling you have just helping people to get back home to their family

What is your philosophy about giving back to the community? My Philosophy about giving back to the community reminded me of when I was working for the Air Force. I played a character that was called Captain Potholder. I would go to different churches, schools, and organizations to discuss home fire prevention. To see the look on their face when I walked in as Captain Potholder will be with me for the rest of my life.

Name a technology innovation that has made an impact in construction or an area where there are opportunities for innovation? The only thing I can think of is a ladder. In construction, the old A-frame type ladder is one of the most dangerous ladders to work off. In construction, 34% of workers are injured or falling off ladders. The new style ladders that we have today are the platform and podium style ladders. This type of ladder is so easy to work from. On this ladder, you can do 360 degrees without falling off. This is one of the greatest innovations they have made in the construction field.

Tell us an awesome fact about yourself or the role you have in the company? I was a Firefighter for 32 years. I worked for the Air Force and Navy during this time; I trained hundreds of guys in the fire service. I didn’t only teach them to fight the fire; I taught them to stay alive. Being in the safety field, one of my roles as a safety professional is ensuring everyone goes back home to their family. For the companies that I’ve worked for, I take great pride in protecting that company and its people.

7 July, 2022