Get to Know Foreman Tyler Wharton

Tyler Wharton has been a foreman in McKinstry’s Pasco piping fabrication shop for over three years. He was recognized in our Safety Excellence Recognition program for his creation of the “Moon Rover” to help with cutting pipe, which saves time and minimizes potential safety hazards.

In the Q&A below, learn more about Tyler’s role at McKinstry and how he chooses to own safety every day.

Learn More About Tyler’s Experience

What is your role at McKinstry/ how did you get there? Why do you choose to “own safety?” How do you “own safety” on the job? How would you describe McKinstry’s safety culture? What do you feel is the best way to encourage safety awareness? What do you do when you’re not working/ what’s one thing about you that would surprise other people?

What is your role at McKinstry/ how did you get there?

I currently work as a foreman in our Pasco piping fab shop. I’ve been with McKinstry for just over three years. I originally started as a welder in the shop and field, but my supervisors saw my potential and diligence in building our fab shop capabilities, so they brought me on as a foreman.

Why do you choose to “own safety?”

I choose to own safety for my family and my friends. I want to be able to spend my time outside of work doing the things I love and spending time with the people I care about, so it’s important I remain safe and uninjured while on the job.

How do you “own safety” on the job?

I always make sure to wear my PPE while on the job. If I’m welding, I’m wearing my gloves, welding hood, safety glasses and setting up my welding screen to protect my peers working around me as well. I also ensure that proper PPE is always available to all my Fab Shop team, and I encourage everyone to lead by example and wear their PPE.

How would you describe McKinstry’s safety culture?

The safety culture here is top notch. Everyone is always looking out for each other. We’re always willing to approach each other when we notice someone might not be wearing the proper attire and PPE for the job they’re doing. I’ve also never been asked to do something that could be deemed “unsafe” on the job. McKinstry always provides the proper tools and equipment for us to perform our jobs safely.

What do you feel is the best way to encourage safety awareness?

The best way to encourage safety awareness is to talk about it. Communicating safe practices daily keeps safety on everyone’s mind. By talking about it, I may make someone aware of a safety hazard that they might not have seen before.

What do you do when you’re not working/ what’s one thing about you that would surprise other people?

When I’m not working, I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, working around the house and on my classic cars, enjoying the great outdoors and riding my motorcycle. Safety is really important when I’m riding. Wearing proper gear and making sure you’re alert and aware of your surroundings can make a big difference.