Futuristic Industries was honoured at the Mark of Excellence Awards on March 20 with the Safety Leadership Award sponsored by WorkSafe Saskatchewan. Executive Director Ray Whitton was appreciative of the award. He was also grateful for the efforts of the staff and workers at Futuristic Industries for their day to day efforts in ensuring a safe work environment.

Asked if there were any special initiatives the organization undertook that led to the award, Whitton underscored the everyday efforts of the team, "In terms of any special initiatives, we don't typically do a whole lot more than we should be doing every day; however it's consistent."

Whitton acknowledges the challenges of working in a recycling environment. There are also many potential hazards inherent in the woodshop. The saws and other tools used by the employees to produce beautifully ornate handcrafted woodwork carry their own hazards. Whitton recognizes the awareness of the staff, "Kudos goes to not just to our supervisors in those areas, but in the way they present to our workers the potential dangers and leaving a dialogue open to them to address issues that were unseen before. If we have an edge, it's fostering that environment of communication."

Whitton takes the issue of safety seriously. His philosophy is "anything can happen. Whether you're doing the type of work we do here or if you're just sitting at a desk typing away. Safety's important."

Whitton shared other observations beyond the scope of the award. He reflected on recent events in Humboldt such as the 10th Anniversary Inclusive Dance, the recognition by City Council of the Special Olympians, and the accomplishments of Tia Zimmerman of Englefeld in the Special Olympic Worlds. Whitton reflects, "This is who Humboldt is. It's all heart. I don't know of a place that has gone out of its way to ensure everyone is included. If we could bottle it and wish it out to the world, we certainly would. And we should. The best way to do it is to continue to talk, and by meeting and mixing with people and being open and honest."