As an industrial safety specialist, Nicole ensures that Publix Distribution associates within her purview are working in a safe environment by completing orientations, weekly assessments, and required trainings. She addresses any safety-related concerns and provides guidance on incidents that occur.

Nicole is regularly at work as early as 5:30 a.m. The first task on her list is to check her email for any safety incidents that may have occurred the previous work day. She reviews incidents to determine any necessary paperwork, and enters information into a tracking system. If an incident involves an injury, she enters it into a risk management database.

Three days a week, Nicole reserves time to conduct safety assessments. During this time, she interacts with associates and management in multiple areas. Every other week, she spends a day conducting a safety orientation for new associates.

Nicole has been with Publix since April 2022. She was hired into her current role with a degree in Occupational Safety and Health, which she was inspired to obtain following a tragic on-the-job safety incident that occurred in her former workplace.

Unfortunately, this background story is not unique to Nicole—she says that when conducting an orientation, she often hears from new associates who “left companies where safety was not important to management.” These associates appreciate the emphasis placed on safety procedures at Publix. It is Nicole’s observation that she is supported by a Distribution management team that truly values associates’ safety. For her part, she is passionate about telling her story and making a difference.

When not on the job, Nicole enjoys RVing, camping, and four-wheeling (safely, of course!) She is also a member of a community service organization.

Nicole’s inspiration is her mom. “In 1982, my father became very sick and became disabled,” she says. “My mom realized that her current job was not going to pay the household bills.” Despite not having a high school degree, Nicole’s mom went on to become a successful business owner who retired in 2023. Nicole recalls, “She always said, you do not have to be the richest person in the room. You do not have to be the most educated person in the room. You just must be the most determined person in the room.”