Sarah Ischer

As the Senior Director of Expertise at the What Works Institute, I am passionate about creating safer, healthier workplaces through evidence-based strategies and innovative solutions. With over a decade of experience in health and safety across diverse industries, I thrive on driving impactful change and fostering cultures of safety and well-being.

Before joining What Works, I led the MSD Solutions Lab at the National Safety Council, serving as a workplace safety subject matter expert and shaping key programs that improved occupational health and safety nationwide. Additionally, I managed environmental, health, and safety (EHS) operations at NSC, ensuring compliance and proactive risk management.

Much of my career has been rooted in Industrial Hygiene, where I worked in complex manufacturing environments managing ergonomics, hearing conservation, chemical safety, ventilation controls, regulatory compliance (TSCA), and more. I have experience leading employee engagement initiatives, serving as a Radiation Safety Officer, and hold a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

I received a MS in Occupational and Environmental Health from the University of Iowa, where I focused my research on bioaerosols and agricultural health. As a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) and Certified Safety Professional (CSP), I remain deeply engaged in the field and am honored to serve as an Occupational Safety Representative for the National Advisory Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH).

Beyond work, I’m a proud advocate for women in STEM, an active member of AIHA, and love spending time with my family and giving back to my community.

• M.S. in Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene