Workplace safety is the cornerstone of any successful organization, yet many businesses struggle to instill a culture where safety is more than a set of rules—it’s a way of life. Fragmented safety programs, outdated training, and inconsistent inspections often leave companies exposed to accidents, costly fines, and diminished employee trust. The gap between mere compliance and a vibrant safety ethos can feel insurmountable, with approaches failing to protect workers or operations. Businesses need a forward-thinking partner that transforms safety into an instinctive, enduring force that empowers teams and secures futures. This is where DFW Safety Consulting, LLC comes in.

DFW Safety Consulting, LLC steps boldly into this space, redefining workplace safety with passion and precision. Committed to their clients’ safety vision, they deliver tailored solutions that weave safety into the fabric of every operation. By thoroughly assessing existing safety frameworks, DFW Safety Consulting pinpoints deficiencies and designs industry-specific programs that meet the latest OSHA standards. Their holistic services—rigorous training, meticulous facility and equipment inspections, and proactive site audits—set the gold standard for safety. Staying ahead of regulatory changes and citation trends, DFW Safety Consulting empowers businesses to prevent incidents and fines while nurturing a culture of confidence and care.

At CIO Bulletin, we were honored to interview Joe Daugherty, the visionary Founder and Owner of DFW Safety Consulting, LLC. In an inspiring conversation, he shared the vision that sparked the creation of his company, the obstacles he navigated, and the unique services that distinguish DFW Safety Consulting in the industry. He also outlined his ambitious goal: to serve as a trusted and impactful safety resource in the construction sector, delivering measurable results through a steadfast commitment to fostering a positive safety culture.

The Story behind DFW Safety Consulting, LLC’s Inception

“I didn’t start this company because it was easy. I started it because I had to,” said Joe Daugherty.

Every company has a beginning—a defining moment that sparks its existence. For Joe Daugherty, Founder and Owner of DFW Safety Consulting, LLC, that moment was born from a hard truth about the industry he dedicated his life to and the ethics and desire to serve resulting from his faith in and relationship with God.

With 33 years of hands-on experience in the safety field, Joe found himself at a crossroads. Despite his decades of knowledge and boots-on-the-ground expertise, he began witnessing a shift in the hiring landscape—one that placed more value on degrees than on experience.

“I don't have a degree,” Joe shared. “And degreed employees were coming in—and that’s a good thing, nothing against those with a degree—but they were coming in at a lot lower wage.”

Joe wasn’t bitter, but he was honest. After being let go by his last two employers and replaced by individuals earning half his salary, he realized something had to change. “I'm not sure how to word this and sound professional,” he admitted, “but I started my own company based on the struggle of staying employed without a degree in my field.”

Rather than stepping away from the industry that had shaped his life, Joe leaned in. He took that frustration, that personal fight for professional dignity, and by faith turned it into fuel. That fuel became DFW Safety Consulting—a company built not just to survive in a competitive landscape, but to redefine safety consulting from the inside out.

And Joe’s mission? It was crystal clear from the start: to raise the bar on workplace safety by focusing on the single most overlooked element in many organizations—communication.

Bridging the Gap with Safety That Speaks

“I have a skillset of relating to corporate executives, and I have a skillset of relating and understanding the field employees.”

Joe Daugherty doesn’t just teach safety—he connects the dots between leadership and labor. At DFW Safety Consulting, this dual perspective is what sets his services apart.

“And in that, I let them know what needs to be addressed, starting at the top is with investing in the employees training that I offer.”

DFW Safety Consulting covers a wide range of industries—commercial and residential construction, hospitals, power plants, chemical refineries, highway infrastructure, aerospace, and manufacturing. Across all these environments, Joe addresses every health and safety subject matter relevant to the workplace.

He offers targeted training on everything from active shooter preparedness to task-specific education. “Whatever the task is, whatever their trade is, I educate them on training equipment, equipment that they operate, field and office equipment safety,” he said.

Joe’s hands-on involvement includes speaking directly to employees and management, bringing safety messages to life in both English and Spanish. “Public speaking to their employees and management, and I offer the services in English and Spanish to help break the communication.”

Beyond the Standard: Raising the Bar on OSHA Compliance

When asked about DFW Safety Consulting’s OSHA Compliance Certification, Joe Daugherty doesn't just express pride—he offers perspective.

“What makes me proud is the OSHA is the highest ranking, but they are minimum standards.”

Joe's deep respect for OSHA as the governing authority on workplace safety is clear. But with over three decades of experience in the field, he believes that meeting regulations is just the beginning.

“In my professional opinion, OSHA is the minimum standard. That's a fact. But there are certain subject matters, from my experience, that I believe need to be taken to a higher level.”

This mindset sets DFW Safety Consulting apart. Joe doesn’t simply check boxes—he evaluates each worksite, each task, and each risk with critical insight, often recommending practices that go above and beyond regulatory requirements.

“I mean that professionally, because OSHA is very professional. They are the top dog. They're the final say. But there’re certain subject matters that my professional opinion are addressed to meet OSHA standard, and also above OSHA standard, depending on the job task.”

For Joe, the true mark of excellence in safety lies in understanding when to raise the bar—and having the courage and expertise to do so.

Empowering from Within: Training the Trainers and Tomorrow’s Talent

Joe Daugherty’s commitment to safety education goes beyond checklists—it's about building a culture from the inside out.

“Education. I address and have the education through my training of my experience that addresses all the subject matters in safety,” Joe said.

At DFW Safety Consulting, Joe not only provides extensive training and certification across OSHA and EPA standards—he also equips employers to train their own teams. This includes CPR, first aid, and a wide range of workplace-specific safety protocols.

“My company not only does the training, but I’ll train employers to train their employees on certain subject matters. Those subject matters that my certifications are in are OSHA and EPA training requirements that I have set forth, and then I put together my standards that are above.”

Joe’s programs are bilingual, legal, professional, and accepted by insurance providers. More importantly, they are tailored to exceed OSHA standards, ensuring employees are prepared for real-world situations.

When it comes to hiring, Joe believes in giving people a chance. “Some circumstances, I’m training the employees myself,” he said. A strong advocate for student development, he integrates interns into the company’s day-to-day work.

“I have a lot of college interns. I like hiring college interns because, in my experience, they're dependable—because not only do they want to make money, but they have to have their hours.”

Joe’s interns often come from backgrounds related to construction or health and safety, giving them hands-on experience while reinforcing DFW’s mission: training the next generation of safety leaders.

Led by Faith, Built on Integrity

When it comes to clients, Joe Daugherty doesn’t just serve them—he selects them. “I want my clients to want me. I choose my clients, too. It's not about the money with me.”

Joe is deeply rooted in his principles, and his business approach reflects that unwavering foundation. “I am a man of faith, and I want to make that clear, and I operate off biblical for the clients and their employees' best interests,” says Joe.

He doesn’t just say it—he lives it. “I tell people my company is God's company. I'm just a steward of His blessings and operating on biblical principles.” That philosophy guides every business decision he makes, especially when it comes to client relationships.

“I have a list of people that I don't work for, choose not to work for, because if they're not serious about developing a safety culture, I will refer them to somebody else, or I will choose not to work for them.”

For Joe, working with companies is about mutual respect and a shared vision. “I choose to only invest my time in operating off companies and work for companies that want to hear what I have to say. Because I know my business, I know what I'm doing.”

And his confidence is backed by results. “My companies and my clients are successful in completing the safety culture. And the results of that are injury-free workplaces and outcome of OSHA inspections with no fines.”

Joe Daugherty's Advice to Budding Entrepreneurs

Joe Daugherty’s journey to becoming the Founder and Owner of DFW Safety Consulting, LLC, is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and faith. “I came out of high school with a 12th-grade education and have managed to run a successful company,” Joe begins, reflecting on his unconventional path to entrepreneurship. Despite not having a degree, Joe didn’t let that hold him back. Instead, he used it as motivation to create something of his own.

When asked about advice for young entrepreneurs, Joe emphasizes a critical lesson. “I tell young people that they can do it. Whether you have a degree or not, don’t listen to the naysayers. Don’t listen to people who don’t share your goals.” Joe points out that, had he surrounded himself with a different circle of people earlier on, he might have started his business much sooner. “The people I hung around didn’t understand my desires and goals, and that delayed things. But that’s just part of life.”

Joe’s key message to young entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: be cautious about who you share your dreams with. “When you talk about starting a business, be careful who you mention it to,” he advises. “Not everyone will have the same heart or desires. It could be family, friends, or acquaintances, but not everyone will be supportive.” He goes on to share his own experience. “Over the years, when I told people I was going to start my own business, I often didn’t get the encouragement I expected. So, I learned to be careful about who I shared my dreams with.”

For Joe, seeking advice from someone already in business is crucial. “Seek counsel from people who are already running businesses. Don’t seek advice from those who aren’t in business, unless it’s just encouragement.”

Redefining Leadership through Encouragement and Empowerment

When asked what moment he’ll be most proud of when he eventually hangs up his boots, Joe Daugherty doesn't hesitate. His answer reflects both his values and his purpose.

“I’m happy about giving back to society by inspiring and encouraging people—especially those working in roles that often go unnoticed or unappreciated. I want them to feel that what they’re doing matters. I want to be that influence who reminds them how blessed they are to go home safely to their families.”

Joe Daugherty doesn’t just consult—he uplifts. He leads with a simple, powerful philosophy: build people up, don’t break them down. “I’m an encourager. I’m an inspiration. I’m a motivator. I do not tolerate or act like a dictator. That doesn’t build a safety culture.”

Joe’s method is rooted in positivity. His audits begin by recognizing what’s going right. “Yes, I point out what needs improvement—but I always start with the positives. People respond better when you lead with encouragement,” he shares.

Whether addressing executives or laborers in the field, Joe treats everyone with equal respect. “I treat the laborer the same way I treat a corporate executive. That’s how you truly develop culture. And I’ve witnessed the impact. I hear it from people and companies all the time. I’m a vessel of God-given inspiration and encouragement. That’s what I do.”

Joe’s dedication extends beyond business—he’s also a minister and hospice chaplain, roles that reflect his deeper calling to serve and inspire.

To his clients and readers, his message is clear: “To those seeking real help in building a safety culture—it works. I’m grateful for clients who commit to continuous growth and wise counsel, no matter their position. I’m seeing the culture evolve—not just at the top, but out in the field.”

“I’m not about the bottom line of a dollar. I’m a people person. A man of voice. And it’s working—for me and my clients,” concludes Joe Daugherty.

“I’m an encourager. I’m an inspiration. I’m a motivator. I do not tolerate or act like a dictator. That doesn’t build a safety culture. I treat the laborer the same way I treat a corporate executive. That’s how you truly develop culture.”