Tracey Cekada
Tracey Cekada, chair of IUP’s Department of Safety Sciences and Environmental Engineering, is a guest for Building PA Podcast’s latest episode, “.”
The Building PA Podcast, begun in 2021, has more than 170 episodes on topics ranging from business leadership to COVID-19 to workforce development.
Cekada’s episode, hosted by Jon O’Brien and Chris Martin, discusses a variety of topics, including the importance of safety education in the construction industry and beyond; the various degree programs offered at IUP, including the unique opportunity to pursue a PhD in safety sciences; insights into the job market for safety professionals and the diverse career paths available, from construction to sports safety; the hands-on experiences students gain through co-ops and internships, ensuring they graduate with real-world experience; and the essential skills that make a successful safety professional, including the critical role of communication.
Cekada also shares stories of students who have found their niche in safety. She notes that the demand for safety professionals is high in both medium and large companies, so there are many opportunities for students. IUP students have gone on to work for major companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and even Fox Sports, overseeing safety during large events.
She also explains the recent merger of two departments into one at IUP, emphasizing the growing importance of safety education in various industries, including construction, oil and gas, and even sports.
“Building PA is well known in the industry and is a great resource for a wide range of professionals in the construction and related fields,” Cekada said. “It’s an honor to be asked to be part of the series.”
also includes the hosts discussing the importance of safety in construction and the Keystone Contractors Association’s scholarship program, which recently awarded its first scholarship to Mackenzie Daniel, a student in IUP’s safety program. The episode also highlights the common questions incoming students and their parents have about the job market and career prospects in safety.
The episode outlines what first-year students at IUP can expect, including foundational courses and hands-on laboratory experiences. She emphasizes the importance of internships and co-op opportunities, which are integral to the program, ensuring that students graduate with real-world experience.
The discussion also touches on the significance of communication skills for safety professionals, as Cekada explains how effective communication can make a difference in promoting safety culture within organizations.
The episode wraps up with a discussion on the resources available for those looking to enter the safety field, including certification options and the potential for an associate’s degree aimed at smaller contractors.
Since its founding in 1875, IUP has evolved from a teacher-training institution into a doctoral research university recognized for its commitment to student success and achievement. As IUP celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025, the university honors a legacy of educational excellence while looking toward a future of innovation, leadership in healthcare education, and public service.