This year’s recipient, Paul Lawson (Paul Lawson Helps LLC), third from left, is pictured with past award honorees Dan Feeney (George J. Igel & Co. Inc.), Meg DeWerth (DeWerth Safety Services) and Dianne Grote Adams (Safex, Inc.).
Established in 2004, the Meg DeWerth Industry Impact Award honors the founding director of the BX safety program. The award was created to recognize a person, company or project that has made a significant contribution to improve health and safety in the local construction industry.
This year’s recipient is Paul Lawson (Paul Lawson Helps LLC) for his outstanding leadership in mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Paul’s journey began at Mid-City Electric / Technologies, where he made a meaningful and lasting impact. He trained more than a thousand employees in suicide prevention, significantly increased utilization of the company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and helped other organizations connect with effective mental health resources.
His leadership extended through his work with the Builders Exchange, particularly on the BX Blueprints for Well-being Council’s Steering Committee, where he plays a key role in building bridges between the construction industry and providers.
Since then, Paul has launched an influential podcast, consulted with several companies across Ohio and has been featured on Channel 10 for his advocacy. On the award nomination application, many heartfelt testimonials were received from individuals whose lives have been directly affected by his efforts.
There is no doubt that Paul’s passion, commitment and tireless work have made a powerful impact on the construction industry and the people within it.
Congratulations Paul!
Joe Fisher
Senior Estimator
Years in the Industry: 12
George J. Igel & Co., Inc.
| RLI |
Seth Weikert
Project Manager
Years in the Industry: 9
Lang Masonry & Restoration Contractors
| RLI |
Zaneta Woo
Project Manager
Years in the Industry: 10
Setterlin Building Company
Now is your opportunity to choose how your company will stand out in the 2026 BX Membership Directory. But… we can’t include your company if we don’t have your paperwork!
Advertising in the BX Membership Directory is more than just visibility – it’s about being connected to the local construction industry. That’s why members trust the BX to effectively market their companies by giving them double the impact for every dollar through print and online exposure.
If you have questions, can’t find your Company Information Form or need more information about the many marketing packages available, contact Sanda Elkins.
*Blue Box Ads are only $150/ea.The deadline to return your Company Information Form is July 31.
Psychological safety is a critical — yet often overlooked — component of a healthy construction workplace. In an industry where mental health challenges and communication barriers are common, creating a culture where team members feel safe to speak up, take risks, and show vulnerability without fear of judgment or consequences is essential.
When organizations prioritize this kind of environment, it not only strengthens trust and inclusion but also leads to better safety outcomes, higher productivity and a more engaged workforce.
The BX Blueprints for Well-being Council’s Q3 meeting will shift from the traditional format to an interactive workshop that offers:
Ruth Bowdish (On Demand Occupational Medicine) will lead this session, sharing the vital strategies for fostering psychological safety that she has accumulated during her multifaceted career in leadership.
For more information about the BX Blueprints for Well-being Council or this workshop, contact Ashton Chapman.
BX Blueprints for Well-being Council
Q3 Meeting: Psyschological Safety Workshop
July 10 | 8 - 9:30 AM
McGohan Brabender
475 Metro Place S, Suite 300 (Dublin 43017)
$39 BX members | $59 Non-members
When registering online, be sure to log into the member portal to receive the member rate.
Ruth Bowdish
(On Demand Occupational Medicine)
As the Managing Director for On Demand Occupational Medicine, Ruth brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to all she does. A published author, licensed counselor and successful life coach, she is a sought-after expert by media outlets and leaders alike. With two decades of leadership experience and a dedication to occupational health and safety, Ruth is an invaluable asset to any team.
A passionate advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, Ruth combines her graduate degree in psychology with multiple certifications in employee assistance and substance abuse counseling. She serves as the official State of Ohio Advocate for the National Drug and Alcohol Testing Association and is a respected member of the Advisory Board for Ashland University’s Women in Leadership Program.