#8 | Mentoring Safety Reps: Building Confidence and Competence

Kevin Chambers talks with Jessica Sturgess, HSEQ Manager at 3 Group and Founder of Prepare Consultants, about the vital role of mentoring health and safety reps. They explore how mentorship builds confidence, teaches practical and soft skills, and helps reps progress in their careers. Jessica also shares advice on training, networking, and why investing in reps benefits both businesses and individuals. Jessica is a graduate of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals. More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA. This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib. 00:00 – Introduction 02:13 – Why Mentoring Reps Matters 03:20 – Real‑World in Action: Scaffolding 05:08 – Building Confidence in New H&S Reps 06:25 – What Makes a Great H&S Rep? 09:22 – Training, Upskilling & Career Progression 12:44 – Mentoring, Soft Skills & Practical Experience 14:57 – Running Effective H&S Meetings 17:04 – Professional Bodies & Ongoing Development 20:08 – Staying the Course in H&S