This year has been nothing short of transformative for me. When I reflect on the past 12 months, I see a journey marked by learning, growth, connection, and impact. From visiting SKC’s facilities in Pennsylvania for the very first time to presenting at international conferences, each step has deepened my appreciation for SKC’s mission which is advancing occupational health through innovative, high-quality sampling solutions that empower professionals to protect workers worldwide.
Laying the Groundwork
My journey with SKC began in February 2024 with my first visit to Eighty Four, Pennsylvania. This trip was my introduction to the incredible people and processes behind SKC’s world-class industrial hygiene products. Touring the sampling media facility in Smock and the manufacturing plant in Eighty Four was an eye-opening experience. Seeing firsthand how the products I’ve relied on throughout my career are meticulously crafted gave me a profound sense of connection. It wasn’t just about the products; it was about the people behind them—their dedication, precision, and pride in their work. I also had the chance to engage with the teams who make SKC’s vision a reality, exchanging ideas and gaining insights into the innovation, passion, and integrity that drives the company. This visit solidified that I was exactly where I was meant to be.
The tour was much more than an operational overview—it was a reminder of how intentional every process is. Watching the precision and care that goes into each product made me think about the ripple effect these tools have worldwide. They enable industrial hygienists to do their jobs effectively and with confidence, ensuring that workers go home healthy at the end of the day. I found the stories shared by the manufacturing team, from overcoming challenges to pioneering solutions, deeply inspiring.
Beyond the technical aspects, the collaborative atmosphere at the facility was very evident. Everyone, from engineers to assembly line workers, played a critical role in ensuring product quality and worked well as a team. Observing this dynamic gave me a newfound appreciation for the collective effort behind SKC’s success.
Sharing Knowledge
March brought two opportunities to share my expertise and engage with the mining community as SKC’s new Corporate Industrial Hygienist. First, I returned to Pennsylvania to present at the Safety and Health Seminar for Mining Supervisors in Lehigh Valley. This was a unique experience as SKC was honored to be the only sampling equipment exhibitor invited My session focused on silica sampling, a critical topic as the industry faced new regulations, and I was pleased to be able to break down complex industrial hygiene concepts into actionable insights for these supervisors. Shortly after, I traveled to Oklahoma to present at the South Central Joint Mine Health and Safety Conference. Here, I discussed the proposed MSHA Silica Rule, emphasizing its implications and the proactive steps mines could take to ensure compliance.
Both presentations provided connections with industry professionals and an exchange of ideas, which reinforced SKC’s commitment to education and innovation. It was incredibly rewarding to see attendees engaged, asking questions, and leaving with a clearer understanding of how to tackle the challenges they faced. One supervisor shared how the session changed their perspective on sampling strategy, prompting their team to rethink protocols for greater accuracy and efficiency. These interactions reaffirmed the importance of clear communication and practical solutions.
A recurring theme during these events was the value of real-world examples. By using relatable scenarios in my presentations, I was able to make the content more accessible for my audiences. For instance, comparing silica sampling to checking air filters in vehicles resonated strongly with attendees, providing a practical analogy they could take back to their teams.
Strengthening Connections
For the first time, I attended the AIHA Connect Conference in Columbus, Ohio as SKC’s new Corporate Industrial Hygienist. I was excited for the chance to engage with a broader industrial hygiene audience and showcase SKC’s cutting-edge sampling solutions. As I participated in this conference, it reinforced in my mind that collaborating and staying ahead of industry trends would help us better serve industrial hygienists and other OEHS professionals. It also expanded my professional network significantly, introducing me to like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating safer workplaces. The sessions and conversations during this event highlighted the strides being made in the field, and I felt invigorated by the exchange of ideas.
Representing SKC at this conference was a proud moment, as it underscored our role as a leader in industrial hygiene innovation. One of the key takeaways for me was seeing how advancements in technology are reshaping how industrial hygienists approach sampling and analysis. From AI-driven solutions to real-time monitoring, the field is evolving rapidly. Sharing SKC’s contributions to these advancements was both exciting and rewarding. Beyond the formal sessions, the hallway conversations and networking opportunities I participated in sparked ideas that I’m eager to explore with you in 2025.
Another AIHA Connect highlight was the opportunity to attend workshops focused on leadership and mentorship in industrial hygiene. These sessions reinforced the importance of guiding the next generation of OEHS professionals. Sharing insights from my own journey and learning from others added depth to my understanding of how we can collectively shape the future of the field.
All About Mining
June took me to Nevada, where I attended and presented at the Elko Mining Convention. My session centered on the new MSHA Final Silica Rule, providing practical guidance on compliance strategies. Engaging with mining professionals in Elko was a reminder of how pivotal these conversations are. Silica exposure is a tangible threat, and equipping the industry with the right tools and knowledge is essential to protecting workers.
In addition to presentations, I participated in discussions with attendees, learning about their unique challenges and sharing solutions tailored to their needs. The energy and commitment of the mining community in Elko were truly inspiring and underlined for me the importance of SKC’s mission. One miner shared how hearing relatable analogies and real-world examples made the silica safety message resonate on a personal level, sparking a shift in how they viewed protective measures.
My experience at the Elko event made me think about the broader impact of SKC’s work. Attendees shared stories of how our products have enabled them to implement effective industrial hygiene programs. These conversations made me realize the importance of listening to end-users and incorporating their feedback into future innovations so that SKC can better serve professionals and ultimately the workers they protect.
A Global Perspective and Safety Week
September was exciting, beginning with a trip to Singapore and ending with SKC’s annual Safety Week. In Singapore, I was honored to present at an international distributor training and attended a local Industrial Hygiene trade show. This experience broadened my perspective on industrial hygiene practices worldwide and underscored the universal and global importance of workplace health and safety. The conversations I had with SKC international distributors and tradeshow attendees highlighted the shared challenges and opportunities we face in advancing health and safety standards.
From Singapore, I traveled back to Eighty Four, PA to lead SKC’s Safety Week. This event was a highlight of the year, bringing together colleagues to celebrate and reinforce our shared commitment to industrial hygiene and the health and safety of SKC’s employees. One of the most memorable moments was the company-wide lunch, where managers cooked, served, and cleaned up for the team. It was a heartwarming display of camaraderie and mutual respect. Throughout the week, I led discussions and activities aimed at fostering a culture of health and safety within SKC, ensuring that every employee felt empowered and informed about the role they play in creating healthier workplaces. The energy and enthusiasm from the team during Safety Week were infectious, making it an experience I’ll never forget.
Safety Week provided a platform to showcase SKC’s innovative sampling solutions in a hands-on setting, allowing employees in manufacturing and logistics to see firsthand how their contributions impact workplace safety worldwide. This tangible connection between effort and outcome was both motivating and unifying. Through interactive discussions and games, employees explored the functionality of our products, fostering excitement and curiosity while bridging the gap between production and application. One workshop participant shared that understanding the end use of our products gave them a renewed sense of purpose in their work, reinforcing the importance of connecting every role at SKC to the bigger mission of protecting worker health.
Focus on Silica
October saw me traveling to talk about silica exposure in mining. In Nevada, I presented at the Reno Mine Safety and Health Conference, focusing on how to communicate the importance of silica safety in ways that resonate with miners. Drawing on real-life stories and relatable analogies, I aimed to make the dangers of silica exposure tangible and understandable. Later that month, I headed to Alabama to present at the Southeast Mining Conference in Birmingham.
Both events brought home the critical role of effective communication in driving safety and health initiatives. My goal in these presentations was to empower attendees to relate the information back to miners, ensuring the message didn’t get lost in translation. These sessions also provided opportunities to hear from others in the industry, gaining insights into their approaches and challenges, which I plan to incorporate into future presentations. One miner in Alabama shared how a simple analogy about respirators as "filters for your lungs" helped them explain the concept to their team in a way that stuck.
I recognized during October’s events the importance of hands-on training. Demonstrating how to properly use sampling equipment and interpret results helped attendees build confidence in applying these techniques. Feedback from participants indicated that practical demonstrations were among the most valuable aspects of the sessions.
Wrapping Up My First Year at SKC with Education and Fun
The year concluded with a return to Pittsburgh, where I had the honor of hosting SKC’s inaugural Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene (FIH) class. This milestone event represented not only a culmination of efforts in 2024 but also a significant step in fostering education and skill-building within the field of industrial hygiene. The program was designed to equip participants with both foundational knowledge and practical tools, enabling them to confidently address workplace health challenges. Seeing the participants' enthusiasm and their eagerness to learn reminded me of the reasons I am so passionate about this work.
The FIH class covered a broad range of topics, from understanding exposure limits to the nuances of air sampling and control strategies. By incorporating real-world examples and interactive discussions, I aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical application. The participants excitedly engaged with the material and asked thoughtful questions. Their insights and shared experiences enriched the learning environment, transforming the class into a collaborative exchange of ideas.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this class was seeing participants connect the dots between the tools and techniques they were learning and the real-life scenarios they could encounter in workplaces. The course was further elevated by the presence of several highly experienced SKC sales and technical support professionals. Their insights and expertise enriched the discussions, providing participants with a deeper understanding of real-world applications and challenges. Their contributions not only added a practical dimension to the class but demonstrated the collaborative spirit that drives SKC’s success.
Beyond the structured curriculum, the class provided an opportunity to highlight SKC’s innovative sampling solutions. Participants were given a hands-on introduction to several key products, ranging from air sampling pumps such as our AirChek® Touch Series to passive samplers to our NoiseCHEK personal noise dosimeters, gaining firsthand experience with the tools that are shaping the future of industrial hygiene. The excitement in the room as they handled the equipment and practiced techniques was palpable. One attendee remarked that this practical exposure not only demystified the tools but also boosted their confidence in using them effectively in the field.
December also marked a time for reflection and planning. I found myself thinking about the impact of initiatives like the FIH class—not just on the participants but on the profession as a whole. Education is a cornerstone of progress, and I am committed to continuing to develop programs that empower industrial hygienists at all stages of their careers. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from this inaugural class affirmed that we are on the right track.
In addition to the Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene course, December was a time to connect with colleagues and celebrate the achievements of the past year. Hosting the FIH class in Pittsburgh allowed me to once again witness the dedication, passion, and pride of the SKC team. Their commitment to producing world-class industrial hygiene solutions is the foundation of everything we do, and their enthusiasm for supporting educational initiatives like this one was inspiring.
Looking back on my time at SKC, I realize that the friendships I’ve made here have been just as meaningful as the work we do. From shared dinners and lunchtime conversations to walks, hikes, and bike rides, every moment has reinforced the sense of community that makes this company special. It’s not just about the projects we complete or the products we create—it’s about the people who make the journey worthwhile. I’m grateful for the laughter, the support, and the memories, and I look forward to many more adventures with this incredible team
As I reflect on 2024, I am filled with gratitude—not just for the opportunity to share my knowledge but for the many people who contributed to making this year so impactful. From the participants in the FIH class to the colleagues who supported the development of the class and all that came before it throughout the year, this collaborative spirit is what drives progress in our field. Wrapping up the year with this educational milestone felt like the perfect way to close a chapter dedicated to growth, connection, and innovation.
Looking ahead, I am excited to build on this momentum in 2025. The success of the Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene class has inspired me to explore new ways to expand SKC’s educational offerings and I plan to continue offering SKC FIH Classes throughout 2025. (Maybe in your region! Click to access FIH Class Form if interested.) Whether through additional courses, show presentations, webinars, blog posts, videos, or hands-on workshops, I am eager to continue empowering professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to protect workers and create safer workplaces. December 2024 was not just an ending to my first year with SKC but a springboard for what’s to come at SKC.
Stay tuned right here as I continue to share my thoughts and experiences with you throughout the year. We’re on this journey together!
Dusty Ott, CIH, is Corporate Industrial Hygienist for SKC Inc. He is based in Ogden, UT where he and his wife (also an industrial hygienist) are raising their family of four children. Dusty is passionate about making industrial hygiene concepts easy to understand at all levels. Follow Dusty on LinkedIn!