Contribute to the professional conversation by sharing your story, innovative approach to managing safety or new ideas for preventing injuries and illnesses at Safety 2027 Conference & Expo, June 6-9, 2027, in New Orleans, LA. The deadline to submit a proposal is Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The submission period will not be extended.

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Please join us in welcoming David Wenzel as the new Area Director for Region VI North. With more than 28 years of experience in risk management and environmental, health, and safety, David brings a proven record of strategic leadership, collaboration, and service to the ASSP community. A long-time member, past Chapter President, and former Region VI ARVP Professional Development, David is deeply committed to strengthening chapter connections, elevating member engagement, and fostering shared learning across the region. We are excited to have David in this role and look forward to the positive impact his vision and dedication will bring to Region VI North.

We are proud to announce that Ashton Alban-Hatcher, CSP, CIH, REHS/RS, MS, MPH, has been selected as the 2026 ASSP Region VI Safety Professional of the Year.

Ashton is an exceptional leader whose technical expertise, dedication to advancing the safety and health profession, and commitment to community impact set her apart. As a Project Manager at EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening environmental and occupational health and safety programs, including leading the development of an ISO-45001–informed safety management system that transformed her organization’s approach to worker protection.

A highly credentialed and lifelong learner, Ashton brings deep knowledge and a collaborative spirit to every role she serves. Since joining the Chesapeake Chapter in 2022, she has become a driving force within ASSP, chairing both the Chapter and Region VI WISE groups, contributing at the Society level, and fostering meaningful mentorship for emerging and established professionals alike.

Her leadership extends across the broader safety and health community. Ashton currently serves as President of the AIHA Chesapeake Section and has strengthened partnerships between ASSP and AIHA, most notably by expanding the 2023 ASSP/AIHA Professional Development Conference into a regional event that drew more than 175 participants.

Ashton’s dedication, innovation, and service exemplify the highest standards of the safety profession. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor as the 2026 ASSP Region VI Safety Professional of the Year.