VPP’s Next Chapter: Safety Culture, Workers and 2027 -- Occupational Health & Safety

VPP’s Next Chapter: Safety Culture, Workers and 2027

VPPPA Executive Director Chris Williams reflects on the 2026 Safety+ Symposium and discusses the association’s priorities for VPP and workplace safety in 2027.

By Stasia DeMarco
Oct 09, 2026

In a new episode of the OH&S SafetyPod, VPPPA Executive Director Chris Williams discusses lessons from the 2026 VPPPA Safety+ Symposium and the association’s priorities heading into 2027.

Williams highlights growing interest in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs and the importance of developing the next generation of safety professionals. He also discusses how worker involvement has changed, with frontline employees increasingly helping develop safety policies and processes rather than simply following them.

Looking ahead, VPPPA plans to expand professional development and launch online communities that allow safety professionals and workers to share ideas throughout the year. The association also wants to expand its Journey Towards Safety Excellence initiative into construction and work with OSHA on a potential VPP construction pilot.

Williams also discusses AI, mental health and substance use and the importance of collaboration across the safety profession.

Download or stream this episode today from Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon and more.

About the Author

Stasia DeMarco is the content editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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