This year’s SoCal Annual Safety Meeting was held on Friday, October 24th at The Sheraton Hotel in Cerritos, a venue that provided the perfect setting for learning and interaction. The room was filled with 275 attentive team members, eager to engage and take part in meaningful, annual discussions around safety excellence.
The day began with warm welcomes and opening remarks from SoCal President Ryan Cavanaugh and Corporate Safety Director Justin Myburg, who outlined the day’s agenda and set the tone for an insightful, productive session focused on strengthening our collective safety culture.
The day’s lineup of topics was diverse and interesting. NorCal Safety Manager Rex Motzkus gave an insightful talk on Risk Tolerance. Corporate Safety Director Justin Myburg and John McAllister followed with a session on Pre-Tasking & Workplans — including what to expect when OSHA makes a surprise appearance on the jobsite. The keynote speaker was Connie Podesta, whose presentation on Leadership Motivation left everyone re-energized and ready to take ownership of safety in a whole new way. And just when attendees thought the surprises were over, in strolled Bob Ross himself — curly wig, paint palette, and all.
Gasps and laughter filled the room as it became clear that our very own Justin Myburg had traded in his safety vest for a paintbrush. Through his visual demonstration, Justin reminded everyone that building a strong work plan is a lot like painting a masterpiece — it takes vision, patience, and attention to every brushstroke. The creative twist made the message both entertaining and unforgettable.
Corporate Safety Director Justin Myburg disguised as Bob Ross paints a memorable picture…
Staying true to tradition, the day included the Golden Hard Hat Quiz, a “how well do you know your program?” test that engaged everyone. Taking home gold was General Superintendent James Adamson with runners-up Foreman Jeff Mizrahi and Colorado GF, Christopher Stevens. Other presenters included Chris Ellis, Christ Rydgren, James Adamson, Kevin Hadley, and Oscar Zavala who addressed many important safety protocols and best practices. The day ended with Ryan Cavanaugh’s closing remarks and10-min introduction to the long-awaited New Murray Safety orientation Video that drove home the importance of safety for all employees. .
Golden hard hat winner So Cal’s James Adamson with runner-up Jeff Mizrahi (So Cal) and Christopher Stevens (CO).
At Murray Company, the importance of safety is no secret — it’s at the very core of who we are. Safety isn’t just a priority, it’s a way of life. And while it’s something we practice every day, dedicating time to focus on it together is always a valuable investment.
