The ASSP Long Beach Chapter is proud to announce that two of its Past-Presidents have been selected as concurrent session speakers at Safety 2026, the American Society of Safety Professionals’ national Professional Development Conference and Expo. This prestigious event will take place Monday, June 15 through Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.
Being selected to present at Safety 2026 is a significant professional achievement. The conference is ASSP’s premier national event, drawing thousands of safety and health professionals from across the country and around the world. Speaker selection is highly competitive and reflects both subject-matter expertise and recognized leadership within the profession.
That two Past-Presidents from the Long Beach Chapter were selected to present at the same national conference is a powerful testament to the strength, visibility, and influence of our chapter.
Dr. Christopher “Chris” S. Rainwater, MPA, MSOH, PCSOH
Past-President, ASSP Long Beach Chapter (23-24 Term)
Session Number: 7016
Session Title: If You’re Laughing, You’re Learning: The Role of Humor in Safety Training and Adult Learning
Date and Time: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Location: Anaheim Convention Center
Dr. Rainwater’s session explores the role of humor in adult learning and safety training, challenging traditional assumptions about engagement, retention, and effectiveness. Drawing on research, real-world experience, and practical examples, the presentation highlights how humor—when used intentionally and appropriately—can significantly improve learning outcomes and safety performance.
Luis A. Ortiz
Past-President, ASSP Long Beach Chapter (24-25 Term)
Session Number: 5012
Session Title: From Heroes to Systems: Transitioning From Individual Safety Ownership to the ANSI/ASSP Z10.0 Safety Management Standard
Date and Time: Monday, June 15, 2026 | 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
Location: Anaheim Convention Center
Mr. Ortiz’s session focuses on the evolution of safety programs from personality-driven approaches to sustainable, system-based models aligned with the ANSI/ASSP Z10.0 Safety Management Standard. The presentation addresses leadership, organizational maturity, and the practical steps organizations can take to move beyond reliance on individual “heroes” toward resilient safety systems.
A Reflection of an Active, Growing Chapter
These national speaking selections underscore what many already recognize: the ASSP Long Beach Chapter is one of the most active, engaged, and respected chapters in the Society. Our chapter’s leadership pipeline, professional development programming, and member engagement continue to set a high standard.
In just three short years, the Long Beach Chapter has experienced nearly 25% membership growth—a remarkable achievement that reflects the value members see in chapter activities, leadership, and professional community.
The selection of two Past-Presidents to present at Safety 2026 reinforces that the Long Beach Chapter is not only growing, but also helping shape the national conversation in the safety profession.
We congratulate Dr. Rainwater and Mr. Ortiz on this well-deserved recognition and invite all members and colleagues attending Safety 2026 to support these sessions.
The ASSP Long Beach Chapter looks forward to continuing its tradition of leadership, excellence, and service to the profession—locally and nationally.
To register for Safety 26, simply click here: Register for Conference and Expo | ASSP Safety 2026