Neah Tucker

What is your position at UNC-Chapel Hill, and how long have you been associated with the University?

Occupational Hygienist. I have worked in the EHS Workplace Safety department for 13 years.

How did you initiate your career in this field or what led you to your current position?

I obtained both my Bachelor and Master’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health from NC A&T State University. So, I am fortunate to be able to work and have a career in my field of studies.

Which sectors of the University does your role impact, and in what ways does it contribute to those areas of work?

My role as the Occupational Hygienist has an impact on the entire campus including students, faculty and staff. My primary function is maintaining the Respiratory Protection Program for all that use respiratory protection while performing their job tasks. That includes making sure all employees are trained and fit-tested annually with the proper equipment.

Describe what you love most about your job.

I absolutely love my job working at UNC-Chapel Hill EHS. No day is ever the same; each day presents its own unique safety issue or learning opportunities for both me and all parties involved in the matter. I’d say the interesting aspect is I get to go ALL over the campus. Such as I’ve climbed to top of the Bell Tower (172 ft.), I go behind the scenes of the sporting venues, the beautiful botanical gardens and deep inside the School of Medicine making sure safety measures are being followed.

What advice do you have for those interested in entering a career in your line of work?

I would say working as a safety professional is great if you’re a person who loves to learn new things constantly and loves helping others. Being a safety professional requires you to be a people person, because you must be able to relate and understand why they do things their way, then help them understand EHS, OSHA and other federal agencies required safe way to do tasks.