Built on Trust: The Safety Culture Behind the Lumen Field Upgrade

“If someone saw something unsafe, they were free to speak up and felt that they were able to,” said Kyle Victor, business unit manager.

That mindset was essential as McKinstry recently modernized critical HVAC systems across one of Seattle’s most active venues. The project included replacing and refurbishing nearly 280 pieces of equipment throughout the stadium and event center, from water source heat pumps and fluid coolers to pumps, air systems and controls. Crews completed the work while the venue continued hosting major events.

The team knew the job would come with high expectations, tight timelines and significant safety considerations. From day one, they created an environment where people felt empowered to speak up, ask questions and look out for one another. Daily huddles, stretch-and-flex routines, pre-task planning and consistent communication helped reinforce that standard.

“This isn’t one individual’s responsibility to keep this job site safe, or each person safe. It takes all of us,” said Shawn Diteman, special projects superintendent.

As the project moved forward, safety remained part of the team’s daily rhythm. That commitment helped crews navigate complex work in an active stadium environment while maintaining a strong focus on protecting one another.

Dominika Morawski, senior construction project engineer, said, “Everyone was looking out for each other, not just within their own crew.”

The result was more than 44,000 hours worked, zero recorded safety incidents and a successful modernization project delivered in one of the region’s busiest venues. It’s a reminder that successful projects are built not only through technical expertise, but also through the way teams plan, communicate and look out for one another while tackling complex challenges.