In the summer of 2018, shortly after earning two associate degrees from Hocking College, Jared Clum joined The Bluffton Stone Company as a dump truck driver. He expected the job to be temporary as he contemplated whether to utilize his degree in heavy equipment or ecotourism.

Around the same time, Bluffton Paving, Inc. needed additional workers for a project on State Route 309. Jared became part of that job’s paving crew for the next few months. As winter approached, he could accept a layoff or return to the quarry and work stacking flagstone on pallets.

That’s when fate influenced Jared’s course. At a company trivia night, which he attended representing Bluffton Paving, Jared met Mandy Gerken. Mandy mentioned a newly created safety position—a job that piqued his interest.

The rest, as the saying goes, is history.

Combining Passions

Jared’s interest in construction work came from hearing his paternal grandfather, Keith, talk affectionately about being an electrician. However, working as a tour guide also appealed to Jared, who loves public speaking and being outdoors. As Manager of Environmental, Health, and Safety, his broad responsibilities let him blend all those passions.

Studying ecotourism in college helped uniquely prepare Jared for working in the safety profession.

“Tour guides must prepare to handle accidents when they happen,” says Jared. ”In addition to learning first aid, I had to take swift-water rescuing and rope-repelling courses.”

Today, Jared has traded conducting tours for teaching classes in everything from CPR and First Aid to OSHA and ATSSA training, which allows him the public speaking opportunities he enjoys. He also spearheads the company’s annual Watch For Us and National Work Zone Awareness Week campaigns.

While circumstances have yet to call on Jared to perform a rope or water rescue, he has provided emergency first aid to road accident victims on two occasions.

The Great Outdoors

Born in Lima, Ohio, Jared grew up in nearby Ada. He attended Ada High School and Apollo Career Center before attending Hocking College. Since joining the Gerken safety team, he has embarked on pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University. He has also become a Certified Occupational Safety Specialist.

Jared has a ten-year-old son and recently got engaged.

When not working, Jared enjoys outdoor activities that provide an adrenaline rush. His favorite activities include hunting, camping, and hiking. He also likes scuba diving and, not surprisingly, is a certified rescue diver. He is always open to learning and trying new things.

Retirement Planning

Jared is a long way from retirement age, but when the time comes, he hopes to retire from Gerken.

“This company helped me find a career in an area I never even considered,” says Jared.

As a safety professional, Jared takes pride in knowing his work positively affects his coworkers’ lives. Helping prevent injuries and ensuring people get home to their families each night is highly satisfying.

“I have grown so far in my time at Gerken. I’m excited to see how far I can go from here.”