The construction and maintenance industries have long been characterized by a culture of toughness and resilience, where workers were expected to push through personal struggles and continue performing at a high level. However, as awareness of mental health challenges grows, prioritizing mental well-being is becoming just as important as ensuring physical safety in the workplace.
In response to this evolving understanding, Sutherland-Schultz is taking steps to support the mental health of its workforce. One such initiative involves the company’s dedicated safety team, which regularly checks in with field staff to foster an environment where mental health discussions are welcomed. Additionally, Sutherland-Schultz has introduced mental health and addiction training for all employees, reinforcing the importance of a comprehensive approach to employee well-being.
“We’ve always focused on physical safety, and rightfully so,” says Kyle Getty, General Manager of Sutherland-Schultz. “But now, we also recognize the critical importance of mental health. We’ve had difficult conversations about mental health struggles, including the loss of industry members to suicide. It’s a tough, often overlooked aspect of the trades, and we’re working to break the stigma.”
One notable initiative is a unique gesture of support: a signed baseball. Sutherland-Schultz has adopted a practice in which workers facing personal challenges are given a baseball signed by their colleagues. This gesture serves as a reminder that no one is alone, even in difficult times.”It’s important to create a space where it’s okay to say, ‘I’m frustrated, I need help, I don’t know what to do,’” Getty adds. “We are working to reshape the narrative — asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
The baseball initiative is more than just a symbolic act — it’s a powerful tool for fostering a culture of empathy and mutual support. “The baseball is a reminder that you’re not alone,” explains Getty who has championed the initiative. “When someone is struggling, they receive the ball signed with names of those who’ve also faced challenges. It’s a tangible reminder that others have been through similar experiences and that support is available.”
This gesture is not only a symbol of shared experience but also a way to encourage open conversation about mental health. When a worker receives the ball, it signifies that they are part of a supportive community — one where their mental health is just as important as their physical safety. By prioritizing mental health, Sutherland-Schultz can encourage open conversations and foster a supportive environment for all workers.
“When I empower someone, I’m not just assigning a task — I’m giving them ownership over their situation,” says Getty, reflecting on his management philosophy. “The baseball represents that empowerment. It’s a reminder that each person in the company has the power to make a difference — both in their work and in supporting their coworkers.”
At the heart of this transformation is a simple yet profound message: You are not alone.