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Nicholas Coia has served on the Portage County Safety Council Steering Committee since 2013. During that time, he has been instrumental in most of our annual safety programming, finding speakers, developing training programs and helping us to win or be nominated for several awards at the state and county levels. Nic played a big role in the 2014, 2016 and 2018 Portage County Workplace Safety & Health Expos where he helped plan and organize the event. He has presented to our council many times and has facilitated multiple OSHA 10 training courses completed by hundreds of our members. He is also the co-host of the Portage County Safety Council Podcast which has produced nearly 300 episodes and over 80 hours of original workplace safety & health content that has been downloaded in over 50 nations!

What did you enjoy the most about serving at the Portage County Safety Council?

“One of the most fulfilling aspects of serving on the Portage County Safety Council has been witnessing the profound impact our work has had on the community. The dedicated steering committee members I’ve had the privilege to serve alongside have been unwavering in their commitment to keeping the workers of Portage County safe.

Together, we’ve spearheaded initiatives such as the Safety Expos, which introduced vital safety education to our county, and sponsored outreach programs to ensure families in need had food on their tables. Each program and event was driven by our shared mission to enhance workplace safety and strengthen our community’s well-being.

While it’s difficult to pinpoint a single standout moment, the collective efforts and the positive outcomes they’ve generated make every initiative memorable. I will always treasure the experiences, friendships, and collaborations formed while serving on this committee.

The work we’ve accomplished reflects not just a commitment to safety, but also a dedication to fostering a stronger, more resilient Portage County. I am deeply honored to have played a part in this important mission.”

What accomplishments are you most proud of during your time serving at the Portage County Safety Council?

“Reflecting on my time with the Portage County Safety Council, I am incredibly proud of several accomplishments that have made a tangible impact on our community and workplaces:

1. 2015 Celebrate Portage Best Health Initiative Award: This award was a significant milestone, recognizing our efforts to promote health and wellness throughout Portage County. It showcased the value of collaboration and innovative programming in improving the overall well-being of our community.
2. Honorable Mentions at the Ohio BWC Safety Council of the Year Awards Ceremonies: Being recognized multiple times at these ceremonies was a testament to the dedication of our team and the effectiveness of the programs we developed. These Honorable Mentions highlighted our leadership in fostering safer workplaces across the county.
3. Development of the Engaging Your Workforce in Wellness Publication: Creating this resource was a rewarding experience, as it provided organizations with actionable insights to enhance employee wellness and engagement. This initiative further reinforced the Council’s commitment to holistic workplace health.
4. Production of the Safety Council Podcast: Launching the podcast allowed us to extend our reach, sharing critical safety information and best practices with a broader audience. It became an innovative way to keep safety and health topics accessible and top of mind for organizations across the region.

Each of these accomplishments represents the dedication, innovation, and teamwork that define the Portage County Safety Council. I’m honored to have contributed to these initiatives and proud of the lasting impact they continue to have on our community.”