From Coast Guard to Health & Safety at Flatiron

As we mark Remembrance Day in Canada and Veterans Day in the U.S. on November 11, we reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of our veterans.  

Rob Lubas, Health & Safety Manager III, served in the U.S. Coast Guard’s Atlantic Strike Team as a machinery technician third class. The Coast Guard instilled in Rob the importance of time management and resource utilization – skills that are paramount in the field of health and safety.  

Rob’s health and safety career began while on active duty in Philadelphia, Pa.  The Coast Guard recognized his potential and sent him to an Environmental Protection Agency course on occupational health and safety that covered things like safety protocols. He went on to train Coast Guard teams and units on how to use personal protective equipment in the field.  

Rob vividly recalls a hazmat incident in which someone illegally dumped hazardous substance into a storm sewer that connected to a waterway under Coast Guard jurisdiction. As the federal on-scene coordinator representative at the time, he federalized the spill and activated his training and knowledge to manage his time effectively. He called on the available resources, including fire, emergency medical services, police and the EPA to coordinate the cleanup efforts.  

His diverse military training allows him to prepare for unforeseen challenges. 

For veterans considering a career in health and safety, Rob offers, “If you’re looking for a rewarding career that allows you to apply various skills, work with people and influence leaders, then a safety profession may be for you.” 

Thank you for your service, Rob, and thank you to all our veterans for your dedication and commitment.