Athena Chiera Wins SMACNA Safety Sponsorship Award

Athena Chiera, Vice-President of Athena Engineering in California, has won the SMACNA Safety Sponsorship Award. Since joining the family business in 2008, she has developed the company’s safety program, which also earned recognition from the ICW Group. Looking ahead, Athena hopes to expand her skills to raise mental health awareness at her company and improve near-miss reporting to prevent injuries. She also wants to support women in construction by making sure PPE fits properly, improving bathroom access, and encouraging more reporting of harassment.

In talking about the award, Athena said I've spent 18 years running our safety program while sending everyone else to the conferences. This scholarship is the first time it's been my turn. Grateful to SMACNA and RISE for opening a room I wouldn't have sent myself to.

The SMACNA Safety and Health Committee, in partnership with the Representation, Integrity, Support, and Empowerment (RISE) Committee, offers an annual Safety Sponsorship to one eligible individual in the safety field. This program provides the opportunity to attend the National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo to promote professional development, learning, and networking. 

Click here to learn more about SMACNA’s Safety Sponsorship Program.