My Story: Lindsay Kastanis

When I was growing up, my dad was a full-time pilot, as well as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. During this time, I received my first aid license, then my water safety instructor aid, lifeguard training, community first aid and safety, waterfront lifeguard, and CPR for the professional rescuer licenses all by age 15. I was also part of our local fire department’s Explorer program and was a frequent shadow student at the veterinarian’s office in town. I’d help draw blood and watch surgical procedures on animals, which was very educational and intriguing.

Also around this time, I was learning to fly an airplane and achieved my goal of soloing on my 16th birthday – before I could legally drive a car.

After high school, I attended Siena Heights University in Adrian, MI, and completed my bachelor’s in business administration. But I really had no idea what I wanted to do with my life.

Skip ahead a few years to when I realized how much I enjoy helping people. It didn’t really matter in what capacity – whatever I could do to put a smile on people’s faces or make their day better made me feel good as well. I spent 10 years working at a tax preparer, and then six more working in the customer service department at a chemical factory. I learned so much about hazardous materials, continuous improvement, safety, Department of Transportation regulations, the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals – the list goes on. It was my first “big girl” job and I loved it. Sadly, I hit a rough patch in life and left that job to do odd jobs so I could match my kids’ school schedule.

The real turning point in my life, as far as safety, was working with kids with special needs. This doesn’t necessarily fall under the “safety” umbrella that we deal with, but the world around them does. For example, is the elevator up to code? When was it serviced last? What’s the fire procedure for kids in wheelchairs on the second floor? Is the inside swing safely attached to the ceiling brace? Does it get inspected often, or even at all? Who’s in charge of this?

A few years after this life chapter, I ended up at Adrian Steel in information technology for more than a year. Then, the safety coordinator job was posted. I knew right away that this was what I was meant to do.

Granted, I had no “real” experience, certifications or schooling, but I knew my knowledge, life experiences and eagerness were enough to apply and have a great chance.

From the moment I accepted the job, I was on a mission to learn as much as I could. I signed up for the OSHA 30-hour class and found all kinds of webinars through the National Safety Council and a few other partners we have. I’ve also been working with Michigan OSHA’s Training Institute and taking classes to get a General Safety and Health certificate, a Safety and Health Management Systems Level Two certificate, and an Occupational Health certificate.

I want to show my kids that hard work pays off, that you can do what you put your mind to. Or, as my dad always says, “Make the airplane do what you want it to do” – meaning you’re in charge of it. Live your life to the fullest and don’t expect anything less!

Lindsay Kastanis
Safety Coordinator
Adrian Steel
Adrian, MI