At Charter Construction, delivering high-quality work goes hand in hand with ensuring safety on the job. This commitment is more than just a set of rules; it’s a core part of our company’s operations and culture. Every project, every team member, and every job site operates under the principle that safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s a mindset.
Before joining Charter, Jessica worked as an EMT, a role that honed her ability to stay calm under pressure and think quickly in high-stakes situations. That experience made for a seamless transition into safety management when she was ready for a career change.
“In my time as an EMT, I learned how to stay calm under pressure, which has helped me think quickly in the safety work we’re doing,” Jessica said.
Now, after nearly six years at Charter, Jessica has become a vital leader for our safety team and a culture creator on job sites.
Safety in Action: Leading Collaboration from the Top Down
Jessica’s work as a Safety Manager is deeply rooted in collaboration. She’s part of a safety team that rotates between various sites, providing crews with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to work safely and efficiently.
Her mornings start with checking in to ensure crews have completed their Pre-Task Safety Analysis (PTSA) Board, where they outline daily tasks, identify potential hazards, and document strategies to prevent accidents. She also confirms they have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and necessary safety anchors before work begins. Throughout the day, she actively monitors the job site, addressing any safety concerns in real time.
Beyond the daily routines, Jessica plays a key role in ongoing safety improvements. Each month, she meets with the safety team to discuss observations from the field and identify opportunities for enhancements. She also contributes to the quarterly Foreman Leadership Meetings, where she collaborates with company leadership, superintendents, and lead foremen to check that the safety team is providing the right resources and support.
“Safety managers can sometimes get the reputation of being the ‘safety police,’ but at Charter, our team doesn’t see us that way. Our program is not a fear-based program—it’s a training program,” she explained.
Jessica’s approach to safety is proactive and positive. Rather than waiting to point out mistakes, she reinforces best practices. She’s been known to personally reward employees who go above and beyond in fostering a safe work environment.
“There have been times where I’ve personally rewarded employees because I was proud of the things they were doing to create a safe working environment,” she said.
Beyond Protocols: Leading with Knowledge, Camaraderie, and Care
Jessica is deeply committed to continuous learning and professional growth. She earned her Safety and Health Certification through Georgia Tech and holds both OSHA 500 and OSHA 510 certifications. Additionally, she maintains her Advanced EMT license to stay current on the latest safety practices and emergency response protocols.
But for Jessica, safety is more than just following protocols—it’s about building relationships and ensuring that new procedures are practical for the crews in the field.
“Anytime a new safety protocol comes in, we take time to talk through it with the guys in the field to make sure we understand how it impacts their work,” she said.
She understands that compliance is important, but what matters most is creating a work environment where safety is second nature. By taking the time to engage with employees, listen to their concerns, and explain how safety protocols fit into their daily work, she helps build trust and buy-in across job sites.
While she values days without incidents or injuries, what means the most to her is the collaboration and camaraderie she experiences daily. Jessica continues to prioritize personal interactions, ensuring that safety isn’t just a top-down directive but a shared responsibility.
“The days that mean the most are the ones where you show up in the morning, and guys are invested in approaching their work safely—going through morning stretch-and-flex routines, asking questions throughout the day, and everyone is leaving with a smile on their face,” Jessica said.
A Safer, Stronger Charter Team
Jessica Cornwell’s dedication to safety and her ability to build relationships with crews make her an invaluable part of the Charter Construction team. Through her leadership, Charter continues to uphold a culture where safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a shared commitment.
Her work serves as a testament to Charter’s belief that safety isn’t just about protocols and procedures—it’s about people. And thanks to leaders like Jessica, that culture of care and collaboration is stronger than ever.