My Story: Tina Arthur-Peterworth

Thirty-three years old, three children, no job and minimal work experience (12 years self-employed and one year at a sewing factory). My younger brother and sister helped me get a job with the company they were working for. It was an hourly, on-the-floor, manual labor manufacturing job. But it was a job.

After a year, I put in a bid for a position in the front office: executive assistant to the plant manager and safety director. I was told I wasn’t qualified.

I was upset because I knew I could do the job. I just wasn’t given the opportunity to prove I could, nor was I given any tests to show I could. I was judged strictly on how I interviewed and on my work history. Instead of letting the rejection define me, I put in a bid for another job: the hazardous materials coordinator. I got the job. I loved working in the environmental field! I excelled in the position, and many of my reports were going directly to the owners of the company. (Of course, that made me feel important!)

Another year passed, and the executive assistant position again came open. Once again, I put in a bid for it. I was asked during the interview why I thought I was qualified for the position this time when I wasn’t qualified the first time. I looked them straight in the eyes and said, “Because you were wrong the first time.” I got the job!

While working as EA, the plant manager asked me why I hadn’t obtained a college degree and encouraged me to get one that was related to the work I was doing. My company sponsored employees seeking degrees related to their jobs, so my out-of-pocket expenses would be minimal. I already had some college credit but was never able to complete my studies because of costs.

With the employee assistance program my company offered, I was able to obtain my bachelor’s in business management. After that, I took it upon myself to obtain my master’s in business administration.

A few years later, the plant manager left, and I began working exclusively for the corporate safety and environmental director. He was, and still is, a remarkable mentor. He made sure I received the training (and tools) I needed to perform my job. I attended OSHA classes, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and Department of Transportation training, and so many others that set me up for success.

During this time, I built a network of safety and environmental professionals and a network of supportive men and women. I’m a member of the National Association of Women in Construction and served in every position available on the local level. I’ve served as chair of the Auburn/Montgomery Section for the Alabama Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals. I currently serve as chair of the Alabama Chapter for Women in Manufacturing and as chair of the Women’s Division at the National Safety Council.

Five years ago, I took the initiative and obtained my Certified Hazardous Material Manager credentials. Last year, I obtained my Certified Safety Professional credentials.

My journey has been 25 years long, and what a ride it’s been. I’m looking forward to the next chapters and always excited about building a bigger network.

If I could offer a few thoughts or advice to other safety/environmental pros, one would be the words from Louis V. Gerstner Jr.: “People don’t do what you expect, but what you inspect.” Next, pursue personal development and always prepare yourself for tomorrow. Last, be consistent and treat everyone equally.

Tina Arthur-Peterworth
Environmental, Safety, Health and Security Manager
Hager Cos.
Montgomery, AL