Each year, the International Code Council leads Building Safety Month, a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of modern building codes. Behind every safe structure is a team of trained professionals, from inspectors and code officials to engineers and plan reviewers, whose expertise helps protect communities from hazards and promote resilience.
As a follow-up to this year’s Building Safety Month, Molly Price, program director for the Building and Environmental Boards South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation; and Jason Gray, project manager, Affordable Housing team for the City of San Antonio, Development Services, detailed their career paths, the opportunities in this growing field and the impact their work has on their communities to highlight what a career in building safety can look like.
What does a career ladder to becoming a building safety professional look like?
Molly Price: One of the most appealing aspects of this profession is that there are many different ways to enter it. My background is in environmental science. I earned a master’s degree in Earth and Environmental Resource Management and studied the impacts of tidal flooding on the coast of South Carolina. I didn’t set out to work in building safety, but after someone in an adjacent department retired, I was asked to lead the constriction related licensure boards and the code adoption process for South Carolina. I didn’t initially realize how relevant my studies were, especially when I was analyzing storm impacts and flooding, which are deeply connected to building resilience.
Jason Gray: If someone had told me in high school that I’d work in this field, I wouldn’t have believed them. I started my career in retail, working as an assistant manager at Foot Locker. Seeking a new path, I transitioned into drafting for a home builder, became a CAD manager and eventually moved into building safety after the economic downturn in 2007. I began as a combination inspector and worked my way up to project manager, where I now oversee inspections and plan review.
What are some career goals for safety code professionals? In other words, what are examples of positions that young professionals can aspire to be in the future?
Molly Price: Career paths in this field are incredibly diverse. You can work in inspections, licensing, code development or leadership. I now oversee both construction and environmental licensure boards and spend much of my time in code hearings and facilitating conversations between stakeholders. There are also opportunities beyond government, such as working in associations, nonprofits or private industry. You don’t have to be in a leadership role to make an impact. Inspectors, permit techs and code reviewers all contribute in important ways.
Jason Gray: There are so many directions you can take in this industry. You could become an inspector, a plan reviewer, a code developer, or even work in advocacy or product development. Through my involvement with the Code Council, I’ve met everyone from inspectors and product designers to CEOs. Some of the most impactful people in this field come from non-traditional educational backgrounds. Whether you have a college degree, a technical certification or a GED, there’s a place for you here.
Name two things someone can do right now to help prepare for a successful career in building safety as a new employee or aspiring professional.
Molly Price: First, in addition to the required education and certifications, it’s important to focus on developing your soft skills. Communication, critical thinking and adaptability are just as important as technical training. You need to be able to think on your feet and communicate clearly. Second, get involved. When I worked toward my Certified Building Official credential, I leaned on a network of peers. We studied together, supported one another and celebrated each other’s success. This field is full of resources and people who are eager to help.
Jason Gray: One key skill is the ability to interpret the code, which isn’t always black and white. You need to be knowledgeable, flexible, and open to new products and processes. Networking is also crucial. Build relationships within the industry and beyond, including with contractors and stakeholders. Whether you’re in high school or starting a new career, talk to people in the field, visit your local building department and ask questions. Most people are happy to share what they know.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about being a building safety professional?
Molly Price: You can come into this field with anything from a high school diploma to an advanced degree. What matters most is having a passion for ensuring safe and resilient structures. There’s a critical need for new talent in this field, and many of the roles offer competitive salaries. When we talk to students, they’re often surprised by how many steps go into ensuring a building is safe. The job market is strong, and the work is both stable and meaningful.
Jason Gray: People don’t always realize that we’re working to prevent emergencies before they happen. First responders like firefighters and paramedics are vital, but our job is to make sure the building is safe so they may never have to show up. We make sure exit signs are in place, alarms work and buildings are structurally sound. These are the things that keep people safe every day, often without them realizing it.
What is most fulfilling about this career?
Molly Price: I’m proud of the role I play in ensuring fair and consistent licensing practices across South Carolina. I regularly speak at conferences and work with code officials, permit techs and contractors to ensure that we’re applying the code properly. Holding everyone to the same standard and helping people succeed in their roles is very fulfilling for me.
Jason Gray: The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that people are safer because of our work. I also love teaching others. Whether I’m working with contractors, designers or developers, helping them understand why the code matters gives me a real sense of purpose. I wouldn’t want to do anything else.
For more information and resources for aspiring building safety professionals, visit 2025 BSM – Week 4 – ICC.
SEE ALSO: THE ROLE OF CODE OFFICIALS IN THE DESIGN-BUILD PROCESS
