Montana Department of Labor & Industry Honors 2025 Governor’s Safety Achievement and Workers’ Compensation Award Winners

• September 09 2025

Helena, Mont. - "Montana's economy depends on the strength and safety of our workforce," Governor Greg Gianforte said. "By putting safety first, these employers aren't only protecting workers, they're attracting investment and helping build an economy where the American dream is more attainable for Montanans across our state."

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) proudly recognized outstanding employers and workers’ compensation professionals at this year’s Governor’s Conference on Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Safety, honoring their extraordinary efforts to keep Montana workplaces safe and ensuring that every worker goes home safe and whole at the end of the day.

"Safety is not just a set of rules or a checklist—it’s a culture. And in Montana, we know that culture matters,” Commissioner Sarah Swanson said in her keynote remarks. “When employers and workers stand shoulder to shoulder in making safety a priority, lives are changed. It means fewer injuries, stronger families, and healthier communities. And when our people are safe, our economy is stronger too.”

Celebrating Montana’s Safety Stars

Each year, DLI presents the Governor’s Safety Achievement Awards to employers who set the bar for workplace safety, going beyond compliance to embed safety culture at the core of their operations. Nominees must demonstrate consistent dedication, including maintaining a low experience modification (E-mod) factor, holding regular safety meetings, and investing in ongoing training and innovation.

Large Employer – Martel Construction (Bozeman)

Martel Construction was honored for more than four years of exceptional safety leadership, setting a benchmark for standards across Montana. With extensive investment of time, resources, and sweat equity, Martel has built a program that doesn’t just meet regulations but continuously improves. Their team sees safety as a shared responsibility, with opportunities for learning and improvement built into their daily work.

From Left to Right, Commissioner Sarah Swanson, Steve Craig, Shawn Carroll, Will Mathews, Shawn Vincent, Travis Marshall, Joe Perelli and Jason Martel

Medium Employer – NW Construction (Bozeman)

NW Construction has developed a culture where every new hire completes at least four hours of safety orientation. Their project managers, superintendents, and engineers undergo OSHA 30-hour construction training and first aid/CPR certification. Beyond compliance, NW Construction invests significant time and resources to ensure its safety program is “superior” not just in comparison to peers, but in making safety a true daily priority.

From left to right, Casey Patterson VP, Neil VanAmburg (CEO), Brandon Vinson (Corporate Safety Manager), Rob Demming (First West Insurance), Commissioner Sarah Swanson

Small Employer – Lattice Materials (Bozeman)

Specializing in custom infrared optics and materials, Lattice Materials has transformed its safety culture into a company-wide core value. Over the last two years, they restructured their safety committee, created a new charter, brought in third-party consultants, and launched an anonymous employee voice program. Their commitment has resulted in nearly 1,000 days without a lost-time incident—an achievement that speaks volumes about their workforce’s dedication and discipline.

Left to right: Commissioner Sarah Swanson, Alistair Stewart (MMEC - Montana Manufacturing Extension Center), Cheri Hollenbaugh (HR Manager, Lattice Materials), Travis Wood (President, Lattice Materials), Larry Azure (Lead Operator, Lattice Materials), Dennis McDonnell (Growth Lead, Lattice Materials), Scott Tuchel (Director, Production, Lattice Materials), Hunter Daniels (Manufacturing Engineer, Lattice Materials)

Public Sector – Yellowstone County

Yellowstone County was recognized for its comprehensive and cohesive safety program that began in 2008. With strong leadership from the Board of County Commissioners, Yellowstone County has built a model program based on continuous improvement, employee well-being, and unwavering support from the top down. Their commitment to ensuring employees have the resources and training to thrive reflects the best of Montana’s public service tradition.

From left to right, Commissioner Sarah Swanson, Chris White (County Commissioner), Mark Morse (County Commissioner), LynnDee Schmidt (Benefits & Safety Manager) Kasey Hazen (HR Coordinator) Devan Hoiness (Marsh McLennan Agency) Rob Wynegar (Safey Consultant Marsh McLennan Agency)

Other outstanding nominees included Barnard Construction, Glendive Medical Center, Flathead Lake Lodge, The PRG Group, True North Steel, Intermountain Claims, and Fallon County.

Honoring Workers’ Compensation Shining Stars

This year’s theme also celebrated the individuals who keep Montana’s workers’ compensation system running strong—professionals who step up every day to support injured workers and help them get back on their feet.

Workers’ Compensation Shooting Star – Lauren Marsh, Midland Claims

Lauren Marsh represents the third generation of her family to manage claims in Montana. A licensed Producer and WC Examiner, she also became the first person in Montana to earn the Workers Recovery Professional Certificate from WorkCompCollege. Lauren played a key role in launching Montana’s own WorkCompCollege training module, the first of its kind in the nation. She balances her career with new motherhood, modeling resilience, dedication, and mentorship for her peers.

Commissioner Sarah Swanson, Lauren Marsh Shooting Star Winner

Workers’ Compensation Rising Star – James Casada, Montana State Fund

With just over three years of experience, James Casada has quickly built a reputation as a trusted “go-to” claims examiner. Known for his empathy, versatility, and skill in handling complex cases, James also brings a unique strength to his team: his ability to connect with Spanish-speaking customers. By building a comprehensive library of translated resources and supporting direct communication, James has improved access and trust across Montana’s diverse workforce. His colleagues praise him for problem-solving, collaboration, and professionalism.

Commissioner Sarah Swanson, James Casada Rising Star Winner

Nominees for this year’s individual awards also included April Puffrey, Cassidy Horne, Wendy Sesselman, and Cassie Smith.

A Culture of Safety for Every Montanan

Commissioner Swanson closed the ceremony by recognizing all nominees and honorees for their role in shaping a culture of safety across the state.

“These leaders are showing us what it takes to build a culture where safety is everyone’s job and every worker’s right,” Swanson said. “From construction crews to county employees to claims examiners, Montanans deserve to work in environments where their well-being is protected and valued. Today we celebrate businesses and professionals who make that a reality.”

With nearly 200 employers, safety professionals, and claims experts gathered, the Governor’s Conference served as a reminder that safety is not only good for workers—it is also smart business. Companies that invest in safety see lower injury rates, stronger morale, and healthier bottom lines.

As glasses were raised in a final toast, the message was clear: Montana’s future is brightest when every worker can go home safe, whole, and ready to thrive.