Hello
Kiewit’s SafeGuard Heroes: Living the Values of Plan, Own, Commit
At Kiewit, safety is more than a policy—it’s a way of life. Every employee, from laborers to leadership, plays a role in creating and sustaining a culture where every team member returns home safely. At the heart of that culture are our SafeGuard Heroes, individuals who exemplify what it means to Plan the Work, Own the Environment, and Commit to SafeGuard.
Who Are SafeGuard Heroes?
SafeGuard Heroes are team members who consistently go above and beyond to ensure safety on site. They take proactive steps to identify and address hazards, lead by example, and uphold Kiewit’s Plan, Own, Commit approach in everything they do.
PLAN: Safe Work Starts with Preparation
SafeGuard Heroes begin every task with a solid plan. They understand that safety starts long before boots hit the ground.
Take Sarah Mendoza, a project coordinator in Texas. Before a complex lift involving multiple cranes, Sarah led a detailed pre-task planning session, ensuring that everyone involved understood the sequence, potential hazards, and contingency plans. Because of her diligence, the lift was completed without incident—and with full crew alignment.
OWN: Taking Responsibility for the Environment
Ownership is about more than doing your own part—it’s about watching out for your team. SafeGuard Heroes step in, speak up, and take action when something doesn’t look or feel right.
In Alberta, pipefitter Trevor Ng noticed a crew working near an unbarricaded trench. Without hesitation, he stopped work, notified the supervisor, and secured the area. His quick response prevented a potential fall and showed what it means to own the environment, not just your task.
COMMIT: Putting Safety Above All Else
Commitment to safety isn’t conditional—it’s constant. SafeGuard Heroes demonstrate this through their daily actions, ongoing communication, and relentless dedication to the well-being of others.
On a bridge project in Nebraska, foreman Mike Daniels introduced a weekly “safety walkabout” with his crew, encouraging everyone to point out risks and suggest improvements. His commitment has empowered his team to speak up and take pride in their safety culture, resulting in a noticeable drop in near-misses.
Celebrating Everyday Heroes
Kiewit’s SafeGuard Heroes are recognized across projects for embodying what it means to Plan, Own, and Commit. Their stories are shared not just to reward them—but to inspire others. They remind us that safety isn’t about compliance; it’s about leadership, care, and action.
A Safer Future, One Hero at a Time
The SafeGuard Hero program is more than recognition—it’s a movement. It encourages every Kiewit employee to take personal responsibility for safety and contribute to a culture where we all look out for one another.
Because at Kiewit, safety is not just a goal—it’s a value. And SafeGuard Heroes are the ones who bring that value to life.
