My Story: Raymond Provencio

When I left the U.S. Air Force, I worked on the flight line, maintaining the weapons systems. I remember the small safety truck that we would catch a glimpse of and know that we were being observed for proper flight line safety practices. I laugh now because I can clearly recall stating that I would never be in a safety job! Little did I realize that safety would find me and it would be an adventure of a lifetime.

After leaving the Air Force, I took a job with the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Prison System as a correctional officer. One night while on shift, we all received an email notification of a safety trainee position open for our location. I laughed and said I should apply so I could sit around all day, do a few inspections and the day was done. My fellow officer laughed and challenged me to apply for the position. Six months later – to my utter dismay – I was notified of my selection as the safety trainee.

Well, 21 years later, after retiring from the BOP, I reflect over my time as a safety professional, and it was the right move. If I could do it over again, I would. The experiences, knowledge, awesome people, and ups and downs in safety over the years were worth it.

Now, I have picked up that safety torch again with the State of Texas, Department of Insurance, in their Workplace Safety Section. I inspect the workers’ compensation carriers conducting business in Texas to ensure they’re providing the necessary accident prevention services (safety) to their respective policyholders, get to visit their policyholders to validate the information and provide safety recommendations to help them with their safety programs. The satisfaction of seeing companies and their employees jointly working together toward a good safety program is worth it, and, best of all, when they shake your hand and you can see it in their eyes that they truly appreciate your help. Safety is part of my life and I enjoy sharing that information.

Raymond Provencio
CSHO, CESCO, SHEP, Senior Safety Inspector
Austin, TX