Name: James Harrald
Company/Position: Border Construction Specialties/ Director of Safety
Website: https://teamborder.com/
In my role as Director of Safety at Border Construction Specialties, it is my job to support customers and sales with training and safety knowledge. My favorite part of this role is that no two days are the same – in safety there is always something new to discover or work through. Our clients need constant support and education, so I do all I can to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technology, as well as keeping well-versed in the regulations.
I originally joined the ABA back in 2013 by default of joining Border. But by 2014 I had become very involved. I attended as many open events as I could, and joined committees right away. Because of this, I have established many lasting friendships. In my opinion, networking is the key to construction success, and ABA affords me that opportunity. As a member, we can get as little or as much as we want from an association. But by staying active we can help make ABA beneficial to the entire industry.
When asked at my interview, “What is your greatest accomplishment?” That would be staying married to my wife Laura for now almost 29 years. I am proud of that beyond any work accolades.
From a professional standpoint, I recently earned my Associated Safety Professional credentials from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. I decided to pursue the ASP as confirmation of my safety knowledge. I am also an OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer for Construction.
How do I spend my time outside of work? Well, after joining Border I took up distance running. I realized my body could not keep up with hockey or soccer anymore, so running seemed…fun? I have since run 5 marathons and a multitude of other race distances. I don’t run as much as I used to, but I always participate in Pat’s Run. Laura and I also have horses and dogs, and keep up a large garden. In my downtime, I like to read.
The philosophy that I try to live and work by is something I have hanging up in my office and I think it applies to everything in life: “I am responsible.” My Dad told me constantly to keep my word and not embarrass the family name. I think I have done a good job so far!
One more quote that I have posted in my office that I’d like to share:
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.” – Einstein
