The Dotson Safety Leadership Award--New!
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The Dotson Safety Leadership Award
About the Award
The Dotson Safety Leadership Award recognizes one exceptional Certified Safety Professional under age 40 who is shaping the future of workplace safety through leadership, innovation, and ethical excellence. Established through the Kyle B. Dotson Endowment, this $10,000 award honors mid-career professionals making significant impact in the field. Recipients receive national recognition and access to NSC events and professional development opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Dotson Safety Leadership Award, candidates must:
- Be under age 40 as of January 1, 2026
This award recognizes mid‑career professionals—established safety practitioners who have proven their impact and are ready to lead at the next level.
- Hold a valid BCSP Certified Safety Professional (CSP) credential.
- Be a currently practicing Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) professional.
- Be employed in any sector except government
- Not currently serving on any NSC committees involved in award decisions.
Award Details
- $10,000 unrestricted financial award
- Recognition at the NSC Congress & Expo
- Featured in NSC communications and professional networks
- Ongoing access to NSC learning and leadership opportunities
Application Requirements
Candidates may not nominate themselves. Each application must include nominator contact information. Candidates must complete the online application form and upload the following materials:
a. Professional Experience and Credentials
- Updated CV or résumé
- Confirmation of BCSP credential in good standing
b. Personal Statement (500–750 words)
- Describe your commitment to safety leadership and how you are advancing the field.
- Include examples of innovation, collaboration, and impact in your work.
- Include the most outstanding achievements of your safety career.
c. Leadership in the Profession
- Evidence of contributions to the safety community through:
- Volunteerism
- Outreach
- Mentorship
- Best practice development
d. Recognition & Awards
- List of professional honors, certifications, recognitions or milestones relevant to safety.
e. Colleague Support (Three Required Letters of Recommendation)
Letters must come from individuals who:
- Have direct professional knowledge of the applicant.
- One of the three should be submitted by the nominator.
Nominator Guidance
When considering a potential nominee for the Dotson Safety Leadership Award, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Self‑nominations are not permitted. Each application must include the nominator’s name and contact information.
- Three letters of recommendation are required. The nominator is expected to provide one of the three letters. Letters should come from individuals who can speak directly to the nominee’s leadership, character, and professional impact.
- Nominators may inform and support the nominee in preparing the application. However, the nominee is responsible for completing and submitting the online application form and uploading all required materials.
- Strong nominations are focused, well‑organized, and meaningful. Submissions should emphasize the nominee’s leadership, contributions to safety, and ethical excellence—without excessive endorsements or unrelated content.
- Evidence of impact and leadership is important. When appropriate, nominators and nominees should reference clear examples, measurable outcomes, or indicators of growth within the safety profession.
- All applications must be submitted through the online portal with all required fields completed. Paper or emailed submissions will not be accepted.
- Nominators should not imply or guarantee selection. Final award decisions are made by the NSC review committee and selection panel.
Deadline: Final nominations must be submitted online by April 6, 2026.