For Quint Kimmel, Safety Manager at O&G, the journey into the construction world started with an unexpected pivot. Initially a journalism student, Quint made the switch to safety a few years into his studies – a decision that, in his words, he never looked back on. “Helping put up a building was an idea that really resonated with me,” he says, and just over a year into his role at O&G, he’s found his place in an industry he genuinely enjoys.
From Words to Worksites
Quint’s background in journalism has served him surprisingly well in his current role. The ability to strike up conversations, ask the right questions, and communicate clearly are all critical skills in the fast-paced world of construction safety. Early in his O&G career, Quint sharpened these skills by speaking at the I-91 / I-691 Meriden project’s weekly stand-downs – a challenging but valuable experience. “When I started, I had never really spoken to groups larger than 20 or 30 people,” he recalls. “Now, speaking to 50 or 60 every Tuesday morning has become second nature.”
Seeing the Impact Firsthand
For Quint, one of the most rewarding moments of his career so far came when he witnessed students walking into the newly renovated Latimer Lane Elementary School for the first time. “One of the kids looked around, then at superintendent, Scott Macey, and me, and asked, ‘What did you guys do to our school?!’” he remembers with a smile. “It was incredibly rewarding to see their excitement for the new space.”
Why He Loves the Job
What Quint finds most interesting about his work is the variety it offers. Covering multiple job sites at different stages of construction keeps his days dynamic and engaging. “It’s really cool to see the progress week-to-week,” he says, adding that the satisfaction of breaking through with a foreman or crew member on the importance of safety is a major motivator for him.
Why O&G Stands Out
Quint appreciates the close-knit nature of the O&G safety department. “I can pick up the phone and call anyone in the department if I have a question,” he says. “The same goes for my project teams – I try to stay in the loop with what’s happening on site.”
Advice for Aspiring Construction Professionals
For those thinking about a career in construction, Quint emphasizes the importance of people skills. “A lot of work in this industry is based on interacting with your colleagues,” he notes. “Being able to communicate effectively can make all the difference.”
Life Outside of Work
Outside of his role as a safety manager, Quint has a competitive spirit. Having swum competitively for over 10 years, he hopes to take on an open water race in the future – a goal that reflects his commitment to pushing his limits, both personally and professionally.
