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In the safety and environmental professions, credentials often carry real weight. The right letters after your name can influence job opportunities, credibility with leadership, and even your paycheck. But not all certifications deliver the same value. While some, like the Certified Safety Professional (CSP), are recognized across industries, others, such as CUSP, CHSP, and CHMM, offer specialized career advantages tied to specific fields. The Benchmark: Certified Safety Professional (CSP) The CSP, issued by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), remains the most widely recognized safety credential in the United States. It’s often viewed as the gold standard for environmental, health, and safety (EHS) professionals, signaling both technical competence and leadership capability. Career Impact: Employers frequently list “CSP preferred” or even “CSP required” in job postings for safety manager and director roles. Holding the CSP communicates that a professional has broad experience across risk assessment, systems management, and regulatory compliance. In practice, it can differentiate candidates competing for high-responsibility positions in manufacturing, construction, or energy. Salary Impact: BCSP’s own salary surveys consistently show that CSP-certified professionals earn $15,000–$25,000 more per year than peers without the credential. Other studies estimate a 15–25% salary increase. For EHS managers, that can mean a jump from the $90k range into six figures—especially in sectors with high safety liability, such as oil and gas or chemical manufacturing. Specialized Power: Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) Safety in the utility sector; covering electrical, telecom, and natural gas operations, demands deep knowledge of field realities and technical systems. The Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) credential, issued by the Utility Safety & Ops Leadership Network (USOLN), was developed specifically for that environment. Career Impact: CUSP is valued by utility companies and contractors for validating both safety and operational leadership. Many organizations see it as an essential qualification for foremen, safety supervisors, and regional safety leaders. It also serves as a visible commitment to professional growth within an industry that places high emphasis on safety culture. Salary Impact: While comprehensive salary data for CUSP holders is more limited, anecdotal employer reports and USOLN case studies show that certified professionals often see 10–20% salary growth or faster advancement timelines. In union and contractor settings, the credential can also justify higher pay classifications due to recognized expertise. Healthcare Safety: Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) In hospitals and healthcare systems, safety extends beyond worker protection. It includes patient safety, infection control, and emergency preparedness. The Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) credential, offered by the International Board for Certification of Safety Managers (IBFCSM), targets those unique demands. Career Impact: Healthcare organizations increasingly look for CHSP certification when hiring for Safety Officer, Environment of Care Manager, or Emergency Management Director roles. The credential demonstrates an understanding of Joint Commission standards, OSHA healthcare regulations, and clinical risk environments; critical skills for maintaining accreditation and compliance. Salary Impact: Salary growth in healthcare safety is closely tied to specialization. CHSP holders often see pay differentials in the range of 10–15% compared to non-certified peers, and certification can be a deciding factor for promotions to senior EHS or compliance positions. For larger hospital systems, CHSP-certified professionals frequently cross the $100,000 annual threshold in leadership roles. Environmental Expertise: Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) While many safety professionals come from an occupational background, those managing chemical hazards, waste, or environmental compliance often pursue the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) credential. Offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM), CHMM certifies expertise in hazardous material transport, waste management, and regulatory programs under EPA, DOT, and OSHA. Career Impact: The CHMM bridges the gap between traditional safety and environmental management. It’s recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy, EPA, and numerous state agencies, making it a strong differentiator for professionals in compliance-heavy industries. Many environmental health and safety (EHS) directors hold both the CSP and CHMM, positioning themselves for senior leadership roles in sustainability or risk management. Salary Impact: Data from IHMM and EHS salary surveys suggest that CHMM holders can earn $10,000–$20,000 more annually than non-certified peers, especially in roles involving hazardous waste or environmental compliance oversight. Employers in manufacturing, energy, and environmental consulting routinely cite CHMM as a preferred credential for six-figure EHS manager and director roles. Real-World Perspective Speaking from personal experience, I’ve worked my way through the BCSP certification path; earning the ASP, OHST, SMS, STS, and the CSP. Like many professionals, I decided to maintain only the CSP, which carries the broadest recognition, and allow the others to expire. I also hold the CHSP credential because of my work in the healthcare system. For safety professionals who wear multiple hats or move between industries, holding more than one certification can strengthen your profile and demonstrate both depth and versatility. Beyond the Numbers Credentials alone won’t make someone a great safety leader, but they often open doors that experience alone cannot. They demonstrate commitment, verified competence, and an understanding of best practices within a professional framework. In the world of safety and environmental health, credentials do pay off; not just in salary, but in access, credibility, and career longevity. Whether you’re aiming for a director title, managing a complex compliance program, or leading crews in the field, aligning your certification path with your industry’s expectations is one of the most practical investments you can make in your career. 
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As the government shutdown continues, many federal employees and military families are feeling the financial strain. While service members are still scheduled to be paid on October 15, many federal civilians, even those working as “excepted” aren’t receiving pay right now. The good news: many banks and credit unions are stepping up to help. Institutions like United Services Automobile Association (USAA) and Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) are offering zero-interest loans and payment relief for qualifying members. You can also check the American Bankers Association’s verified list of participating banks at aba.com/government-shutdown-bank-action-2025  Scammers often take advantage of situations like this. To stay safe:
You’re Not Alone... Financial relief is available. You just need to go through legitimate channels. Check official sites like:
If in doubt, don’t click — call. Help is out there, and your bank wants to see you through this shutdown safely. Starting your own business is more than paperwork; it’s a leap of faith backed by preparation, purpose, and passion. I’m proud to share that I’ve officially launched Abbott Safety & Health, LLC, a Colorado-based company dedicated to providing safety and occupational health consultation as well as notary services. Establishing the Foundation After years of professional experience in safety and health, I decided it was time to create something of my own — a business built on integrity, knowledge, and service to others. The first steps were administrative but essential:
My Mission Abbott Safety & Health, LLC exists to promote safe, healthy, and compliant workplaces. My goal is to help organizations identify risks, improve safety culture, and ensure the well-being of every worker. Whether it’s conducting hazard assessments, developing safety programs, or providing occupational health consultations, I believe that prevention and education are the cornerstones of every successful business. In addition to safety consulting, I’m also offering notary services because accessibility, trust, and professionalism should be available to everyone in the community. Looking Ahead Starting this business is just the beginning. I’m excited to connect with local businesses, organizations, and individuals who share a commitment to safety, health, and integrity. My vision is to make Abbott Safety & Health, LLC a trusted partner for companies that value their people and their communities. If you’re in Colorado and need help with workplace safety, health compliance, or notary services, I’d love to connect.  As the days grow shorter and darkness sets in earlier, workplaces face unique challenges that can affect both safety and well-being. Seasonal changes don’t just influence our moods; they can disrupt sleep patterns, lower alertness, and even raise the risk of accidents. In my latest article for Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S), I explore how reduced daylight impacts fatigue, mental health, and workplace safety, and share practical strategies for employers and employees to navigate these seasonal risks. You can read the full article here: Shorter Days, Greater Risks: Managing Fatigue and Mental Health in the Workplace   Most people don’t think about where laws come from until those laws affect them directly. I recently found myself in that position with Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-3-213, the section that governs veteran license plate benefits.
After looking closely, I realized there was room for improvement. Room to make the statute fairer and more meaningful for Colorado veterans. Instead of simply shrugging and moving on, I decided to see what it would take to actually propose a change. Why This Matters As a veteran and a Life Member of VFW Post 4051 here in Colorado Springs, I know firsthand how small legislative details can make a big difference in the lives of those who served. Sometimes the law is written in a way that leaves veterans shortchanged, even though the intention is to honor them. This isn’t about politics. It’s about making sure statutes reflect the realities and sacrifices of the people they’re meant to serve. My First Steps I started by drafting a proposal for how the law could be amended, and then began reaching out to the organizations that represent veterans at the state level. So far, I’ve contacted the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Colorado, the American Legion state leadership, and the Disabled American Veterans Colorado office, requesting their support. My goal with these first steps is simple: build support within veteran service organizations (VSOs). If they stand behind this amendment, it strengthens the case when approaching lawmakers at the Capitol. What’s Next Right now, I’m waiting for responses from these organizations. I’ve set reminders to follow up in September. From there, the next step will be reaching out to my elected officials in the State of Colorado with a solid backing from the VSOs. Why I’m Sharing This I wanted to document the process publicly, because many people don’t realize that ordinary citizens can play a role in shaping the laws of their state. It takes persistence, patience, and a willingness to learn, but it’s possible. This is just the beginning of the journey. Whether or not my specific proposal succeeds, I hope it serves as an example of how veterans, and all citizens, can raise their voices when something needs fixing. Right now, I’m in Baby Step 2, working on paying off debt with the snowball method. But I’ve already started looking ahead to what comes next, because Step 3 is a big one: saving 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund. This step is about creating a strong financial safety net. It’s there to cover the big “what ifs” of life; job loss, medical expenses, or major home/car repairs, so you don’t slip back into debt once you’ve fought your way out. Why I’m Thinking Ahead I recently heard Jade Warshaw (Ramsey Solutions coach) talk about this step, and she made a great point: once you reach Step 3, the money shouldn’t just sit in a regular savings account. It belongs in a High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA). Here’s why that stuck with me:
How Much Is Enough? Dave Ramsey recommends 3–6 months of expenses (not income). That means looking at what it really takes to keep life running: housing, food, transportation, insurance, and other must-haves. Three months may be enough if you’ve got stable work or a dual-income household. If you’re self-employed or just want extra cushion, six months gives you more breathing room. Looking Down the Road I’m not there yet; but thinking ahead helps me stay motivated. Knowing that Baby Step 3 is waiting gives me a vision for the kind of peace and stability I’m working toward. When the time comes, I want that money in the right place... growing, safe, and ready for whatever life throws my way.  This blog series is based on my personal journey through Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps. I am not affiliated with or endorsed by Ramsey Solutions. This is for informational purposes only and not financial advice.
Politics often feels like something distant. Something that happens at the Capitol in Denver, decided by lawmakers and lobbyists. But in reality, Colorado’s legislative process was designed to include everyday citizens. Lawmakers rely heavily on input from residents to make decisions that affect schools, healthcare, transportation, taxes, and more. The Colorado General Assembly even publishes “A Citizen’s Guide to Effective Legislative Participation,” which explains step-by-step how anyone can get involved. Here are some highlights and practical ways to make your voice heard. Understand the Process The first step in being effective is understanding how laws are made. A few resources worth exploring:
Once you’re familiar with how things work, the system feels much more approachable. Learn the Issues If you care about a topic, whether it’s public safety, education, or environmental policy, do a little homework. Knowing who is affected, what the arguments are, and how the issue connects to your own community will strengthen your position. Personal experience combined with a few facts is often the most persuasive approach. Connect With Your Legislators Your representatives are elected to serve you, and hearing from constituents is part of their job. You can:
Consistent, respectful communication builds credibility over time. Work With Others A single voice is powerful, but a group of concerned citizens working together is even more effective. Look for community groups or organizations that focus on the issues you care about. Collaboration helps amplify your message. Stay Respectful and Constructive Advocacy is most effective when it’s civil and solution-oriented. A few reminders:
Final Takeaway Colorado’s legislative process was built for citizen participation. You don’t need special training or political connections; just a willingness to learn, speak up, and stay engaged. By taking part, you’re helping shape the future of our state.  This post is intended to encourage civic engagement and does not endorse or oppose any political party, candidate, or partisan position.
 Dave Ramsey’s “Baby Steps Millionaires” is one of the resources inspiring my financial journey. When it comes to money, most of us want the same things: less stress, more security, and the ability to plan for the future without constantly worrying about bills or debt. The problem is, money can get complicated quickly. Between budgeting, saving, paying down debt, and thinking about retirement, it’s easy to feel like there are too many moving pieces. That’s why I’ve decided to focus on something simple but powerful: Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps. Why the Baby Steps? What I love about the Baby Steps is that they take all the noise out of personal finance. Instead of trying to do everything at once, the plan breaks things down into clear, manageable stages. You don’t have to figure out all of life’s financial challenges in one sitting. You just have to take the next step. For me, that’s what makes this approach realistic. It’s not about being perfect with money, it’s about having a straightforward roadmap and the discipline to keep moving forward. What to Expect Here Over time, I’ll be writing posts that walk through each of the 7 Baby Steps in detail:
But here’s the key: this won’t be a weekly blog series or a quick run-through. Instead, it’ll unfold as part of my own journey. Some steps (like the debt snowball or paying off a mortgage) naturally take months or even years, and I want to share these posts in real time as I reach them. That means there may be some space between posts, and that’s okay. This process isn’t about speed; it’s about steady progress. Why I’m Sharing This I’m not a financial guru, and I don’t have it all figured out. What I do have is the same desire a lot of people share: to be wise with money and build a more secure future. Writing about the Baby Steps is a way to stay intentional on my own journey and hopefully encourage someone else along the way. Moving Forward So, consider this the starting point. I’ll be posting about each Baby Step as I get there, sharing what I’ve learned, how I’ve applied it, and the lessons along the way. If you’ve ever wanted to take control of your finances but felt overwhelmed, this series is for you. Let’s walk through it together... one step at a time. If you’d like to see the official overview of Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps, you can check it out directly on Ramsey Solutions. This blog series is based on my personal journey through Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps. I am not affiliated with or endorsed by Ramsey Solutions. This is for informational purposes only and not financial advice.
When most people think about workplace safety, they picture hard hats, safety signs, and training sessions. But the habits we build at work, like staying aware of hazards, thinking ahead, and preparing for emergencies, don’t have to stay on the job site. In my latest article for Occupational Health & Safety, I talk about how these same skills can make us safer at home, on the road, and in our communities. It’s about taking the lessons we’ve learned through workplace safety programs and using them to protect what matters most in everyday life. You can read the full article on OH&S here: Extending Workplace Safety into Everyday Life →  Author Jeremy R. Abbott is a safety and occupational health professional with more than two decades of experience in workplace safety, risk management, and employee well-being. His work focuses on creating practical, sustainable safety programs that protect people in diverse environments, including military healthcare facilities. I just published a new article in Occupational Health & Safety today, and it's something that matters deeply to me: CPR: A Lifesaving Workplace Priority explores how essential cardiopulmonary resuscitation training isn’t just a checkbox—it can literally mean the difference between life and death. I dig into why every workplace should not only offer regular CPR training, but also foster the confidence among employees to step in when emergencies strike. One of the most powerful lessons here: we often train for emergencies and never expect to use those skills—but when that moment comes, you’d rather be ready than wishing you were. If this resonates with you—whether you're an employer, safety professional, or simply a concerned coworker—I encourage you to read the full article on the OH&S website: Read “CPR: A Lifesaving Workplace Priority” ⟶  AuthorJeremy R. Abbott is a safety and occupational health professional with more than two decades of experience in workplace safety, risk management, and employee well-being. His work focuses on creating practical, sustainable safety programs that protect people in diverse environments, including military healthcare facilities. |
