April 3, 2025 — The PEF members who achieved certification as OSHA trainers last month share why it’s such a significant step for them.
“Becoming an OSHA Authorized Trainer means so much to me because I want to help people stay safe at work. I’m honored to be among PEF’s first OSHA member trainers, and I’m excited for the opportunity to make a difference. We can’t wait to start sharing what we’ve learned and help create safer workplaces for everyone.”
– Letitia Rivera, Intensive Case Manager, Bronx Psychiatric Center
“I chose to become an authorized OSHA trainer because I firmly believe that every individual should return home in the same condition in which they arrived at work. I am excited to provide education to my fellow PEF members on identifying safety hazards, equipping them with the essential tools needed to enhance workplace safety. This opportunity also enables me to leverage my creativity and further develop my skills in adult education.”
– Kelly Otis, Safety Health Inspector, Binghamton Department of Labor
“Achieving my Authorize OSHA Trainer Certification was vital to me because it solidified my commitment to workplace safety and provided a structured, comprehensive understanding of OSHA standards. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about proactively creating safer environments for everyone. Moving forward, I’m excited to engage with PEF members by sharing my OSHA expertise. I look forward to facilitating practical, accessible training sessions, answering specific safety-related questions, and fostering a culture of prevention.
– Gwendolyn Culpepper, Recreation Worker, OPWDD Bern Fine DDSO
“I am so excited to be able to now go out and train the members with these newly acquired tools of OSHA standards to help the members keep management accountable for Health and Safety issues and Workplace Place Violence Reports. I am ready to teach others what to look for and what to ask for from management to keep themselves and their co-workers safe.”
– Michele Rosello, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Creedmoor Psychiatric Center
“I learned the tools of education, language, and the law to support the fight for safety and health for myself and coworkers in the workplace. I am excited for the opportunity to serve my union and to be a part of the bigger picture.
– Alison Rissing, Parole Officer, New Rochelle Area Office, DOCCS
“This important program will significantly improve the safety and health within state agencies and provide valuable information to our members. The OSHA outreach program will ensure that the membership has the knowledge and tools they need to address unsafe conditions within the workplace. I look forward to working with my fellow OSHA trainers in the future.”
– Michael Marquez, PEF Health & Safety Trainer