Transforming Environmental Health and Safety Practices: Project Updates from EHS Intern Katie Schmidt

Katie is a US Aggregates’® Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) intern who graduated from Fairbanks School of Public Health at Indiana University Indianapolis. Majoring in epidemiology with a focus on public health disease spread, she also holds a minor in community and industrial health. With a passion for environmental sustainability and public health, Katie has taken on significant responsibilities during her internship, gaining hands-on experience while working alongside a variety of departments and dedicating her work to environmental protection and compliance. During her time at US Aggregates, Katie has worked on three major EHS projects that combined her interest in health and environmental science. These projects not only challenged her but also allowed her to make a tangible impact on environmental, health and safety management efforts within the company.  

Dye Testing for Water Flow Management  

One of Katie’s early projects was her involvement in dye testing at the Springville plant. By adding dye to the water system, she helped track water flow and identify water management opportunities. The dye provided a clear visual representation of how water moved across the site, which was critical for water management and ensuring that water leaving the site met regulatory standards.  

Respirable Silica Dust (RSD) Sampling 

Katie also participated in a vital safety initiative by conducting RSD sampling across various plant sites. This Respirable Crystalline Silica sampling, is part of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) compliance process, it ensures that workers’ exposure to silica dust remains below safe limits. Katie worked with plant managers to deploy the RSD sampling equipment and then analyzed the results to determine compliance. Her efforts ensured our plants are within MSHA’s safety thresholds, preventing potential health risks for employees.  

QGIS Mapping for Environmental Compliance 

Katie worked alongside the engineering team on a Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) mapping project. Using satellite mapping software, she helped streamline the data collection process for environmental permitting. By creating a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and instructional video, Katie significantly improved the efficiency of data harvesting, saving the company time and resources.  

Katie’s internship experience has not only provided her with invaluable technical skills but also allowed her to collaborate closely with professionals in the field. She is particularly grateful for the opportunity to take on meaningful projects that align with her passion for both public health and environmental sustainability. 

 Environmental Manager Laurie Webb appreciates Katie’s drive to learn new things and her efficient work style. “She has really helped me complete projects that were previously postponed,” Laurie notes. “She grasped new concepts quickly and was a huge contributor to the success of the environmental compliance program at US Agg.”  

Thank you, Katie, for your dedication and hands-on approach, you have truly helped the EHS team!