Chuck (Charles) Gessner joined LSST as full-time Head of Safety in 2014, having acted as part-time safety manager since 2007 while employed by LSST partner National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO). He was instrumental in both recruiting experts to join the LSST Safety Council and in establishing the LSST safety program he now oversees. Chuck has more than 30 years of experience providing safety expertise, risk assessment, procedure development, training, and safety program management. Prior to joining NOAO, Chuck served as head of safety for Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. Giant Tire Division, and Magma Copper Company. In addition to his proficiency in program implementation, standards development, and compliance, Chuck has managed and mentored more than 40 respected safety and health professionals.