Humble Beginnings
When Phil Mezzatesta began his construction career at just 16, it started with simple tasks: demolition and cleanup. Introduced to the industry by a friend, he quickly recognized the value of hard work and satisfaction that came with prioritizing safety on the job site.
From Laborer to Leader
Today, Phil holds multiple roles: President of A+ Safety Consulting, Vice President of United Five Construction, and OSHA Outreach Instructor with NextWave. One of his core beliefs is that field experience outweighs what is written on paper.
“It may look good on the drawing, but that doesn’t mean it works in real time.”
His philosophy is rooted in real-world knowledge, the kind that comes from years in the field. He emphasizes practical, hands-on safety over abstract theories, helping workers understand safety beyond the textbook.
Defining Choice
Among many important moments in his career, Phil shared that the most pivotal one came at age 21, when he asked himself how he would support a family. His answer was a profession where he could combine his passion for building with a deep concern for safety. This commitment led him from the field to eventually serving as Chief Inspector of Investigative Engineering Services for the Department of Buildings in 2020, a role he considers one of his proudest achievements.
Finding His Voice
Public speaking did not come naturally to Phil. During his 16 years at the Department of Buildings, Phil was once asked to present to a training class. He recalls freezing up, overwhelmed with nerves. But with simple advice from a colleague to “just look at the back of the room,” he found his voice and a new passion for teaching. Today, Phil regularly leads training sessions with clarity and confidence, including courses offered through NextWave. Having Phil on our instructor team allows NextWave to offer students real insights from someone who has worked at every level of construction.
Certifications and Credibility
As Phil’s experience grew, so did his credentials. He now holds several key certifications including the OSHA 500 Trainer Card, 62- hour SST Card, 32-hour Supported and Suspended Scaffold certifications, and a 40-hour Site Safety Manager certification. These certifications have enhanced his ability to teach and mentor the next generation of safety professionals.
Words of Wisdom
His advice to newcomers is simple yet powerful:
“Be honest. Don’t lie about what you’ve seen on site.”
In a field where reputation matters, integrity builds trust. For Phil, this honest approach has opened doors, earning him multiple Safety Director offers and deep respect throughout the industry. Phil’s belief in honesty and hands-on learning mirrors the values we prioritize at NextWave: real-world readiness and personal accountability.
Adapting to Change
Phil continues to embrace new technologies and training methods to stay ahead in a constantly evolving field. His openness to innovation strengthens his role as a safety educator and helps him prepare others for real-world challenges.
Legacy in the Making
Safety is not just a job for Phil. It is a responsibility he takes seriously. From hauling debris at 16 to training the next wave of safety leaders, Phil’s career is grounded in integrity, grit, and a passion for protecting people. His work with NextWave allows him to share decades of experience with students and professionals looking to build their careers in construction safety. His story reflects not only his own legacy but the values we strive to uphold every day.