As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to refocus, recharge, and recommit to building safer, stronger workplaces. 2026 kicks off with the announcement of the keynote speakers for the Ohio Safety Congress & Expo® (OSC26®), taking place March 11–13, 2026. 

This year’s keynote lineup brings together two powerful voices who will inspire fresh thinking around safety, leadership, resilience, and personal responsibility — setting the tone for an impactful three days of learning and connection. 

Wednesday, March 11 at 9:30 a.m. Garrison Wynn, CSP 

Influencing safety: What the most successful do differently 

Chemical plant explosion survivor, bestselling author, and nationally recognized safety researcher Garrison Wynn delivers a high-energy keynote that blends real-world experience, research-backed insight, and humor. In Influencing safety, Garrison explores the power of personal influence — demonstrating how trust, relationships, and engagement make safety practices stick while maintaining productivity. Attendees will leave energized and motivated to actively shape a strong, sustainable culture of safety. 

Thursday, March 12 at 9:30 a.m. Allan Kehler 

Find your voice – reclaim your power 

In this deeply personal keynote, Allan Kehler challenges cultural myths surrounding mental health, resilience, and emotional expression. Drawing from his lived experience with mental illness, addiction, and suicide, Allan offers an unfiltered look at what it means to live behind a mask — and what it takes to finally remove it. His powerful message empowers individuals to find their voice, reclaim their power, and help create safer, more supportive workplaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. 

Registration for OSC26® is now open, and there’s no better way to start the year than by investing in yourself, your team, and your organization’s safety culture. Register early and secure your spot for these can’t-miss keynote sessions and all that the Ohio Safety Congress & Expo® has to offer. 

For more information, visit bwc.ohio.gov.