Employee Spotlight: Christoph Holderried, Safety and Occupational Health Specialist, Safety Office
Compiled by USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs
How long have you been working in your current role?
I have worked within the federal service since June 1, 2005. This year marks 20 years of service for me.
Can you describe what a typical day looks like for you?
One of the interesting aspects about this job is that there are no typical days. Workdays can include tasks such as going out to worksite safety inspections, investigating/assessing safety hazard reports brought up to our office, investigating at-work accidents, assisting supervisors and employees at their workplaces with specific questions, providing training, or conducting a pre-opening safety walk-through at a community event.
The other part of the job is in the office – such as writing inspection reports, reviewing Department of Public Works construction project plans and drawings, reviewing accident reports, and some other general administrative duties. I am also the primary liaison to our German safety and health partner agencies for matters pertaining to our local national workforce.
How do you feel your work impacts the community?
I believe everyone should be able to work in a safe environment. The Safety Office directly contributes to accident prevention by providing advice and guidance to leadership, supervisors and employees.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
Having the opportunity to gain experience in the wide range of services and functions, while also building relationships within the community and being recognized as a knowledgeable advisor has been most rewarding.
Any special projects or initiatives you’re most proud of having been involved in?
None that I remember in particular, but over the years there have been a number of construction projects and community events where Safety had a significant impact.
What skills do you think are most essential for success in your job?
A technical education is necessary in order to deal with typical matters such as construction, machinery, or electrics; further needed is a good understanding of the regulatory structure – in our case, of both U.S. and German. In customer interaction, good communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to put oneself in the customer’s place.
How would you summarize your personality in one sentence?
Unpretentious German here…open-minded, dependable, team-oriented, considerate, but also direct at times. But I’ll gladly leave it to those who meet me to make their observations.