2019 Ones to Watch: Malcolm Punch, Total Safety

Name: Malcolm Punch, CSP

Title: Senior Safety Consultant

Company Name: Total Safety

Year that you entered your current field? 2004

List up to three CRE organizations that you are currently a member of: AGC NYS, ECA & NYBC

Who or what do you attribute to your success?

I attribute my success to my parents Richard and Ursulina Punch. They instilled in me the importance of education and hard work. I was lucky to have these two individuals as an example to model my life after. Both of my parents grew up extremely poor and through education were able to lift themselves out of poverty to realize the American dream. Their lives serve as examples that anything can be achieved with hard work and dedication. 

Who are some leaders that you admire and why? ?

I admire leaders like our former President Barack Obama. Here is an individual who embodies the American Dream. He started from humble beginnings and through nothing short of hard work, dedication and shear will he was able to become the President of the U.S. Throughout his presidency he exemplified attributes such as humility, integrity and dignity no matter the situation. These foundational attributes are essential to be a good leader. We often take these attributes for granted when they are present and we agonize over our decisions when they are not. 

If you have a mentor, who is it and how have they influenced your personal & professional growth? 

One of the most influential people in my life was Albert Rivera. I never got a chance to properly thank him before is untimely departure. Albert was not just my mentor, he was a dear friend as well. He was a sincere, thoughtful and kind individual. Under his tutelage and guidance I was able accomplish feats like obtaining a Master Degree in Occupational Safety and Health Engineering from NJIT. He was also instrumental in my becoming a Certified Safety Professional (CSP). Albert set such a high standard of excellence, I’m still trying to catch up to him till this day.

What was your favorite thing to do as a kid?

As a kid I really enjoyed playing basketball. I loved playing so much my friends and I would shovel snow to clear the basketball courts in the winter time. Basketball taught me valuable life lessons. For instance, it taught me how to be a good team player. Understanding my how my individual role enhances or detracts from the overall success of the team. It also taught me the importance of preparation. The way you practice is how you play. I believe all children should partake in some organized sport or activity to help bring structure to their lives.