Each year, the BC Forest Safety Council honours individuals who go above and beyond to make forestry safer for everyone. Since 2008, the Leadership in Safety Awards have recognised outstanding contributions in three key areas: harvesting, manufacturing and lifetime achievement.

These awards honour people who lead by example—those who bring fresh ideas, foster a strong safety culture and consistently put the well-being of others first. This year’s recipients carry on that tradition with inspiring dedication, hands-on leadership and a deep commitment to safety across BC’s forest sector.

Award Categories

• Cary White Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award
  Presented to someone who has shown a long-standing commitment to improving safety awareness, expanding safety knowledge and building a lasting culture of safety in the forestry industry.
• Forest Safety Most Valuable Player (MVP)
  Recognizes an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to safety in forest harvesting operations—whether through innovative ideas, strong leadership or consistent efforts to improve workplace safety.
• Manufacturing Safety Most Valuable Player (MVP)
  Honours an individual or team who has made a notable impact on safety in wood products manufacturing, demonstrating leadership and initiative in creating safer work environments.

2025 Award Recipients

Cary White Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award

Recipient: Bjarne Nielsen – Bear Safety Services Ltd.

Bjarne Nielsen has spent more than 25 years improving safety in BC’s forestry industry, including 18 years as a WorkSafeBC Prevention Officer. As a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), Bjarne has worked tirelessly to prevent workplace accidents, mentor others and build a culture of safety that’s grounded in respect and collaboration.

He’s served as an instructor, auditor and programme developer and his influence has reached across the province. Known for his warmth, integrity and unwavering commitment, Bjarne has helped countless individuals and organisations elevate their safety practices. His legacy is one of compassion, knowledge and action—and this award is a tribute to the lives he’s impacted and the future he’s helped shape.

Forest Safety Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award

Recipient: Dale Jones – Operations Superintendent, Tolko Industries Ltd – Heffley Creek

Dale Jones is being recognised for more than 30 years of leadership in forest safety. As Operations Superintendent at Tolko’s Heffley Creek division, Dale brings a practical, common-sense approach to safety that resonates with crews and colleagues alike.

He’s known for his calm, honest communication and his ability to foster a culture where safety is part of everyday thinking. Dale’s influence extends well beyond his own team, inspiring others across the company to take ownership of safety and continuously improve. This award celebrates his lasting impact and the example he sets for others in the industry.

Manufacturing Safety Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award

Recipient: Shane Norbury – Red Seal Millwright, Western Forest Products – Chemainus Sawmill Division

Shane Norbury has been a driving force behind safety improvements at the Chemainus Sawmill. As a Red Seal Millwright and long-time member of the site’s safety committee, Shane leads by example—always putting the well-being of his coworkers first.

From spearheading safety initiatives to ensuring workstations are safe and ergonomic, Shane’s hands-on approach and attention to detail have made a real difference. His approachable nature and commitment to shared responsibility have helped build a strong safety culture at the mill. This award recognizes Shane’s dedication and the positive impact he’s had on his workplace.

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients! Your leadership, care and commitment continue to make BC’s forestry industry safer and stronger.

Want to recognise a safety leader in your organisation?

Nominations for the 2026 Leadership in Safety Awards open on January 12, 2026. Visit the BCFSC website to learn more about how to nominate someone who’s making a difference in forest safety.