Dr. Laske Recognized as Rising Star in Safety by the National Safety Council

We are thrilled to share that Dr. Matthew Michael Laske, Assistant Professor in the Department of Behavior Analysis at the University of North Texas and Director of the Organization and Communication Sciences Laboratory, has been recognized as one of the National Safety Council’s 2025 Rising Stars of Safety.

Each year, the NSC honors outstanding safety professionals under the age of 40 who are making a measurable difference in saving lives and preventing injuries. This year’s 41 honorees represent some of the best and brightest across industries — leaders who embody innovation, determination, and collaboration in advancing workplace safety.

Dr. Laske was recognized for his impactful work at Eastman Chemical, where he served as a division behavioral safety and data specialist prior to joining UNT. In that role, he:

• Revamped the division’s behavioral observation program to improve accountability and engagement.

• Designed and implemented a new measurement system to track observations and actionable items for reducing hazardous conditions.

• Developed an adaptive “contact rate” metric, tailored to department and crew size, ensuring meaningful and frequent safety interactions.

• Helped lead a significant reduction in recordable injuries within just three quarters of implementation.

  
  

This recognition highlights Dr. Laske's commitment to bringing behavioral science to real-world safety challenges — a mission that continues through his research at UNT, where he focuses on organizational behavior, communication, and safety practices.