Happy New Year, PSHFES community! My name is Niki (or Ninica, for my mother’s benefit) Howard and I’m the new president of PSHFES. As a brief introduction, I have been an ergonomist and researcher with the SHARP Program, in the Department of Labor and Industries, for the past 23 years. My degree is in Work Environment from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. I have served on the executive council for the past three years as the symposium chair.

So this is my first president message. Where to start? At this time last year, we had no idea just how much our lives would change in a short period of time, or just how much our jobs would change. We are dealing with so much right now, the pandemic and its mounting infections and deaths, racial injustice, massive job losses. All these have and will probably continue to affect how we do our jobs for some time. So our challenge, as it has always been, as occupational health and safety professionals, is to use our expertise and knowledge to address the new and emerging issues that have arisen, all the while continuing to do the great work we were already doing. So simple, right?

But here is what I know. I know that we are a brilliant and resourceful group and that we are up for the challenge. Together, we share, we commiserate, we problem solve and support each other. There is no better or strong community. I am truly honored to be the new president of this society. I’m looking forward to serving in this role and supporting the PSHFES community as we strive to help ensure safe and healthful working environments.

I am truly honored to be the new president of this society. I’m looking forward to serving in this role and supporting the PSHFES community as we strive to help ensure safe and healthful working environments.

Niki Howard

President, PSHFES