Advocating for Road Construction Safety

In the ever-evolving landscape of highway construction, worker safety remains a paramount concern. As a key player in our industry, Mandy Gerken-Snyder, Chief Administrative Officer at The Gerken Companies, is at the forefront of advocating for enhanced road safety measures. With her extensive experience and unwavering passion, Mandy is not just a key player in the industry; she’s a spirited advocate for transformative road safety measures that protect both workers and drivers.

Highway workers often face the daunting reality of heavy traffic in active work zones, leaving them vulnerable to the perils posed by distracted, impaired, and speeding drivers. Recognizing this risk, Mandy diligently works to advance legislation that imposes meaningful legal consequences for dangerous driving. That advocacy is crucial, as it encourages behavioral changes among drivers, enhancing overall awareness and making roadways safer for everyone.

Safety isn’t just a policy at The Gerken Companies; it’s a core value. The organization takes proactive steps to enhance its internal safety initiatives while also championing important public policy changes. That dual approach helps secure a safer environment for both dedicated workers on the road and motorists who rely on those highways every day.

Mandy has long been a strong advocate, regularly engaging with lawmakers at both the federal and state levels. She has lobbied on critical issues such as transportation infrastructure, safety funding, and workforce development, stressing the need for ongoing investment and attention to those areas.

This month, Mandy took her advocacy efforts to Washington, D.C., for the Transportation Construction Coalition (TCC) Fly-In. The coalition, comprised of 34 national associations and construction unions, plays a pivotal role in shaping federal transportation policies. Representing the Ohio Contractors Association (OCA), Mandy brought her passion for improved work zone safety to the forefront, urging Congress to bolster funding for research and to motivate states to prioritize worker protections on the road.

Following her participation in the TCC Fly-In, Mandy traveled to Columbus to testify in support of Ohio HB 82, the Trenton Gallaway Work Zone Safety Act. This essential piece of legislation aims to bolster Ohio’s work zone safety laws by increasing penalties for violations, enhancing driver education, improving signage, and allowing for flexible speed limits. At its heart, the bill’s main goal is to significantly reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities for both roadway workers and motorists.

The act’s name honors Trenton Gallaway, a young Ohio highway worker who tragically lost his life while performing road maintenance in Franklin Township. His story serves as a heartfelt reminder of the urgent need for stricter safety measures and heightened driver awareness.

“Work zone safety is about awareness, and we all play a part,” explains Mandy. “The more visibility we can bring to tragedies such as Trent, the more we can humanize our work and the people who do it.”

Empowering the Next Generation

Mandy’s 14-year-old daughter, Claire, an 8th grader at Bluffton Middle School, accompanied her mother to the TCC Fly-In in Washington. Claire has an interest in business, law, and politics, so Mandy thought it would be meaningful to her. Additionally, during previous hearings, Mandy has been asked whether Gerken has a next generation. The representatives acknowledged Claire’s presence and discussed how some of the issues we addressed would impact her generation.

“I feel it is really important that the next generation understands where things come from and how they are built, including the laws,” says Mandy. “We take so much for granted. But when you truly understand that there is a process behind everything and people who make it possible, it seems to garner more respect.”

Mandy’s relentless commitment to road safety exemplifies the dedication many in the industry share. By advocating for meaningful legislative changes and raising awareness about the dangers highway workers face, she is not only contributing to a safer work environment but also protecting the lives of countless motorists. The road to safety may be challenging, but with leaders like Mandy paving the way, there is hope for a future where every worker can perform their job without fear of injury.

We can all continue to support these vital efforts by staying informed, advocating for safer roads, and recognizing the importance of every individual who works tirelessly to keep our highways safe. Together, we can make a difference.