Utah Transportation Conference
Join RS&H at the Utah Transportation Conference as we help drive conversations shaping the future of infrastructure across the state and beyond. Our team is proud to contribute insights that advance innovation, collaboration, and safe, sustainable mobility for our communities. Don’t miss our session moderated by Tom Everett, where industry leaders will discuss the importance of mental health awareness in the industry.
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Tom Everett, PE
Steven Byars
Mike LaViolette, PE
Ray Strandberg, PE
Jeremy McDonald, PE
Shelby Saarinen
Join us for Mental Health Matters: A Conversation for the Highway Industry
Tuesday October 28, 1-2pm
Highways are the arteries of modern infrastructure, keeping economies growing and communities connected, yet the mental health of those who design, build, and maintain highways often remains overlooked. Long hours, high-pressure environments, remote job sites, and safety-critical responsibilities can take a significant toll on emotional well-being. This panel brings together industry leaders representing perspectives of owners, contractors, and consultants to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by those in the highway sector. Through candid conversation and expert insight, we will examine the stigma surrounding mental health in construction and transportation, share real-world experiences, and highlight practical strategies for fostering a culture of support and resilience.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key mental health challenges affecting highway and transportation professionals.
- Learn how mental health impacts safety, productivity, and workforce retention.
- Apply practical strategies to reduce stigma and support employee well-being on projects and within organizations.
Panelists include:
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Tom Everett, PE RS&H Strategic Advisor & Former FHWA Executive Director – Moderator |
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Brandye Hendrickson TxDOT Deputy Executive Director |
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Elizabeth McMillan UDOT Director of Strategic Communications |
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Bradley Sant, JD, CSP, ASP ARTBA Senior Vice President |
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Brandon Carlson AGC Utah & Regional Safety and Health, Environmental, and Quality Manager Granite Construction |
Session Resources
Our panelists have compiled a brief list of resources and learning opportunities to help keep the conversation around mental health awareness in our industry going.
Please seek professional medical support if you are struggling.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: A free and confidential (U.S.) resource that connects individuals with skilled, trained counselors 24/7. Call 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Use the online Lifeline Crisis Chat or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “HELLO” to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Training
Mental Health First Aid Training: Mental Health First Aid is a course that teaches you how to help someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The training helps you identify, understand, and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses.
QPR Suicide Prevention Training: QPR is a suicide prevention training to recognize warning signs and question, persuade, and refer people at risk for help.
Tradewinds Leadership: Field-first coaching and development that equips leaders with the tools to change jobsite culture from the inside out. Contact Stephen Dummit (Founder | Coach | Lead Facilitator).
AGC Utah
ARTBA
- Youturn Health Partnership
- The Safety Zone Podcast
A three-part series on mental health and suicide intervention in the transportation construction industry. - Worker Safety and Welfare — Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse
ACEC
- Health & Safety Online Forum. Open to all ACEC National members. Log in to your ACEC account and join
RS&H Resources
Workplace burnout remains prevalent, but there are effective approaches to addressing it within your organization.
It starts with understanding the difference between sympathy and empathy and recognizing how these concepts can foster meaningful connections.
Consider the following three tips for implementing healthy strategies to achieve and maintain work-life balance.
