IOSH
From Student Member to Chartered Member
Michelle Stenson’s IOSH journey
From studying in the classroom to supporting safety across major construction projects, Michelle Stenson’s journey shows how professional development, determination and a passion for protecting people can shape a successful career in occupational safety and health.
Turning ambition into achievement
Michelle joined IOSH as a Student Member in 2019 while studying at IT Sligo, now Atlantic Technological University (ATU). Just three years later, she achieved Chartered Membership, a milestone that reflected both her professional growth and her commitment to making workplaces safer.
Today, Michelle works as a Safety Consultant with Safety Solutions, visiting water and wastewater construction sites across the northwest region of Ireland and supporting teams working in high-risk environments.
For Michelle, the motivation to pursue a career in safety started long before she entered the profession.
“I really wanted to work in construction-related safety because I wanted to help make workplaces and working practices safer.”
Michelle Stenson
- Job role
- Safety Consultant
- Company
- Safety Solutions
She also wanted to help prevent long-term illnesses associated with construction work, such as COPD, and was inspired by stories of accidents on construction sites to pursue a career in safety.
Beginning the journey
Michelle’s IOSH journey began during her time at university, after attending a talk about IOSH membership.
“There was a talk in Sligo IT about becoming an IOSH member, it was offered at a discounted student rate, and I thought it would be a great opportunity to join.”
At the time, joining IOSH gave Michelle an early introduction to the professional side of occupational safety and health, helping her build knowledge and confidence alongside her studies.
What started as Student Membership quickly became an important part of her development as she moved from education into industry. Throughout her studies and early career, IOSH resources helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-life practice on site.
“The IOSH magazines and case studies were one of the most beneficial parts of membership for me.”
Michelle Stenson
- Job role
- Safety Consultant
- Company
- Safety Solutions
Michelle used the IOSH magazines and case studies to help her connect theory with real-life scenarios, while also reinforcing the dangers workers face on site and how quickly serious injuries or fatalities can happen during everyday tasks.
Connecting learning to practice
For Michelle, those resources helped bring the profession to life and reinforced the importance of strong leadership in high-risk industries.
As she progressed from Student Member to Certified Membership, IOSH continued to support her development at every stage of her career journey, helping her build both professional knowledge and practical confidence.
“The biggest challenge I faced was time restraints, I was always very nervous completing the peer review, as there were five senior safety professionals interviewing me.”
Despite the pressure, Michelle found the experience rewarding and an important part of her professional growth.
In 2022, she officially achieved Chartered Membership, an accomplishment that marked a significant milestone in her journey from student to safety professional.
Her experience demonstrates how IOSH membership can support professionals throughout every stage of their development, from studying and building technical knowledge to achieving recognised professional status within the industry.
Building confidence and broadening opportunities
Since becoming Chartered, Michelle believes the achievement has strengthened both her confidence and professional credibility.
“I believe becoming a Chartered Member has highlighted my commitment to safety and broadened the projects that are available for me to participate in.”
Michelle Stenson
- Job role
- Safety Consultant
- Company
- Safety Solutions
As her career developed, Michelle has continued taking on new opportunities to share knowledge and contribute to the profession.
One recent achievement she is particularly proud of was hosting a safety webinar as part of the CIF Safety Campaign on the Golden Rules for overhead Lines.
Michelle also continues to use IOSH membership to support her ongoing professional development through CPD, industry updates and case studies.
“Being an IOSH member encourages me to complete CPD every year, it also keeps me updated with recent legislation and case studies.”
For Michelle, IOSH has not simply been a membership she joined during university, it has remained part of her professional journey as her career has progressed from student to Chartered safety professional.
Advice for future safety professionals
Reflecting on her own journey, Michelle encourages current Student Members to fully engage with the resources and learning opportunities available to them through IOSH.
“I would advise any Student Members to read as many of the IOSH magazines and case studies as they can.”
Michelle Stenson
- Job role
- Safety Consultant
- Company
- Safety Solutions
Her story highlights how Student Membership can become the starting point for long-term professional development, helping aspiring safety professionals gain knowledge, confidence and industry recognition as their careers evolve.
Looking ahead
Michelle is continuing to build on her professional achievements, with her next goal already in sight.
“In the next year, I am planning to apply for Chartered Fellowship.”
From Student Member to Chartered Member, and now towards Fellowship, Michelle’s journey highlights the value of continuous professional development and the important role IOSH membership can play in supporting members throughout their careers.
Take the next step to Chartered membership
Demonstrate your professional expertise and commitment to excellence in occupational safety and health. Explore the requirements and benefits of becoming a Chartered Member (CMIOSH).