An inside look at living, studying and working at Cal Poly.

Inside Cal Poly

Nilay Gami&#8217;s role as director of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is both a professional and personal fulfillment.
Whether leveraging AI for hazard identification or fostering social responsibility and sustainability at EHS, Gami knows the importance of innovation in driving positive change.
In fact, his team recently won the <a href="https://www.verdantix.com/insights/press-releases/verdantix-reveals-the-winners-of-the-2024-ehs-innovation-awards-americas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EHSQ Digital Innovation Award at the 2024 Verdantix EHS Innovation Awards Americas</a> for embracing technology that assists employees in reducing their ergonomic risk.
Between taking home the prestigious international award and his busy day-to-day schedule, Gami made time to sit down and discuss his global leadership experience, his favorite word and sage advice regarding humanity and technology.
What do you do in your role? 
As the director for Environmental Health and Safety, I lead initiatives to ensure workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental sustainability. My extensive global leadership experience, including roles at Amazon, Michelin, and starting and divesting from my own petrochemical company, equips me with the expertise to develop and implement effective EHS strategies. My diverse industry background and having managed high-risk operations and driven digital transformations internationally, enable me to address complex EHS challenges with a comprehensive, risk-aware approach.
Additionally, I am a proponent of leveraging AI technologies to proactively identify and mitigate risks. By utilizing predictive analytics and machine learning, my team can anticipate potential hazards, optimize safety protocols, and ensure timely interventions. This data-driven approach not only enhances safety outcomes but also supports continuous improvement and operational excellence.
What do you like about your job? 
What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to make a tangible impact on both people and the environment. Leading EHS initiatives allows me to create safer workplaces and promote sustainability, which aligns with my passion for social responsibility. 
I particularly enjoy collaborating with diverse teams across different colleges, units and cultures, as it enriches my perspective and fosters continuous learning. Working with students at the university is also incredibly rewarding. It allows me to share my knowledge and experience, mentor the next generation of professionals, and stay connected with emerging trends and innovative ideas. This dynamic interaction keeps my work exciting and fulfilling.
I love making a real difference in people&#8217;s lives and creating a culture where safety is second nature. Plus, seeing everyone go home safe and sound is incredibly rewarding!
What are some things your team is working on that you are excited about? 
I&#8217;m particularly excited about several innovative projects my team is currently working on. One highlight is our use of AI to enhance ergonomics in the workplace. This initiative recently won an award for its effectiveness in reducing strain and injury among employees by using predictive analytics to support employees to work safer and improve work environments.
Additionally, we are conducting comprehensive risk assessments. These assessments help us identify potential hazards more accurately and implement proactive measures to mitigate them. This approach not only improves safety but also boosts overall operational efficiency.
Another exciting project is the development of a roadmap for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). This roadmap will provide a structured framework for identifying, assessing, and managing risks across the organization. By integrating AI and data-driven insights, we aim to create a robust ERM strategy that enhances our ability to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities for growth.
Are you from San Luis Obispo? If not, where are you from and how did you end up in SLO County? 
I&#8217;m not originally from San Luis Obispo, but I was captivated by its vibrant community and stunning scenery, making it the perfect place to work. My journey here has been shaped by diverse global experiences, having lived and worked in Switzerland, Germany, Thailand, India, Canada, and the United States. Each of these places has enriched my perspective and professional approach.
I ended up in SLO County through my role at the university, which I find incredibly stimulating. The university environment is much like living in multiple countries simultaneously, as students and professors constantly bring back new ideas and diverse cultures. This dynamic exchange of knowledge and cultural insights makes Cal-Poly a vibrant and inspiring place to live and work.
What is your favorite word? Why? 
My favorite word is &#8220;innovate.&#8221; It&#8217;s a word that perfectly captures the essence of what I love to do. Innovation is all about finding creative solutions to complex problems, pushing boundaries, and making a positive impact. Whether it&#8217;s using AI to enhance workplace ergonomics, developing new risk management strategies, or collaborating with diverse teams and students, the drive to innovate keeps my work exciting and fulfilling. Plus, it&#8217;s a word that embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and forward-thinking, which are essential in today&#8217;s fast-paced world.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? 
The best piece of advice I&#8217;ve ever received resonates deeply with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.&#8217;s profound words: &#8220;When we look at modern man, we have to face the fact…that modern man suffers from a kind of poverty of the spirit, which stands in glaring contrast to his scientific and technological abundance; We&#8217;ve learned to fly the air like birds, we&#8217;ve learned to swim the seas like fish, and yet we haven&#8217;t learned to walk the Earth as brothers and sisters.”
This advice reminds me to balance our incredible technological advancements with a strong sense of humanity and compassion. It encourages me to innovate not just for progress, but for the betterment of society, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding. It&#8217;s a guiding principle that shapes my approach to leadership, ensuring that while we push the boundaries of what&#8217;s possible, we never lose sight of our shared responsibility to each other and the planet.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you? 
The most important lesson life has taught me is that &#8220;the journey is the reward.&#8221; This philosophy emphasizes the value of the experiences, growth, and learning we gain along the way, rather than just focusing on the end goal.
Throughout my diverse career and global travels, I&#8217;ve learned to appreciate each step of the journey. Whether it&#8217;s navigating the complexities of different cultures, tackling challenging projects, or mentoring students and colleagues, every moment offers an opportunity for growth and discovery. Embracing this mindset has allowed me to find joy and fulfillment in the process, rather than just the outcomes. It reminds me to stay present, cherish the experiences, and continuously learn and innovate.

Man with long salt-and-pepper hair, thick mustache, blue eyes, wearing a gray blazer and white buttoned shirt.

Tag: Staff

We Asked, Nilay Answered