Her Story
About Amari
Amari Scales serves as a Project Safety Professional at Turner Construction Company, where she focuses on promoting safe, efficient, and accountable work environments. She entered the construction safety field in 2023 and has developed expertise in incident investigation, safety initiative implementation, and fostering positive safety cultures. Her professional background also includes experience as a Safety Manager, Environmental Health Safety Engineer, and Workplace Health & Safety Specialist with organizations including Tippmann Group, Advance Auto Parts, and Amazon.
Amari earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Tennessee State University in 2023 and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Middle Tennessee State University’s Jones College of Business, with an emphasis on leadership, management, and organizational strategy. She has strengthened her professional qualifications through certifications in Adult First Aid, CPR and AED, HAZWOPER 24, GHS and OSHA Hazard Communication, OSHA 10-Hour, and OSHA 30-Hour. Her approach to safety combines technical knowledge with strong communication, employee engagement, and leadership development.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Amari is passionate about mentorship, event planning, and creative design, including developing flyers and graphics. She is also working toward creating a mentorship pipeline connecting Tennessee State University students with high school students interested in careers in the construction industry. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and the National Pan-Hellenic Council, she is committed to supporting others through mentorship and community involvement. Amari credits her family as a major source of her success and places a strong emphasis on respect, compassion, and a positive workplace culture.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amari
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family. Growing up, I witnessed the sacrifices they made, especially my mother, who worked incredibly hard to provide for my younger brother and me and put us through school. Their dedication and resilience continue to motivate me to work hard and pursue my goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that “there is no teaching without learning, and no learning without teaching.” It reminds me to stay open to learning from others while also sharing my own knowledge and experiences.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to stay true to yourself and never be afraid to take up space in rooms where you may feel undervalued. Remember that you are there for a reason—you were chosen for a reason. Hold your head high, believe in your abilities, and never underestimate your worth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is being underestimated because I’m a young woman, particularly when others assume I lack the experience or knowledge to contribute. However, working for Turner Construction, one of the largest general contractors in the world, has given me incredible opportunities to grow and prove myself. I’m currently involved in the new Tennessee Titans stadium project, which has been an invaluable experience and an exciting addition to my career.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are respect, compassion, and a positive company culture. I believe people do their best work when they feel comfortable, respected, and supported, especially in environments where they may feel different. I also value understanding that we are all human, make mistakes, and deserve compassion in both our personal and professional lives.
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