Hi, I'm Bill. I'm living proof that one moment can change everything. I survived a 7,200-volt electrocution—an accident that should have ended my story, but instead, it transformed my life.​​ Today, I've taken that life-altering experience and turned it into a powerful mission: to raise awareness, inspire change, and help others prioritize safety in every task. As a safety professional and keynote speaker, I now share my journey at conferences, workplaces, and events across the country, showing the real consequences of shortcuts and the true value of safety. ​Whether you're here to learn, book a talk, or simply hear an incredible story of survival and purpose, welcome. I’m glad you’re here. Let’s make safety personal.
Through the Current: A Story of
Faith, Healing, and Rebuilding
Who I Am?
My name is Bill Toms and I began my working career in 1984 by serving four years in the US Air Force, where I first trained to become a power lineman. After leaving the Air Force in 1988, I went to work for a large construction company in my hometown of Asheville, NC, where I have worked for 37 years. In 1997, I sustained a high-voltage electrical contact incident which resulted in the amputation of my right hand and foot.
After recovering from my electrocution, I began working in the Safety Department of my company. I am now the VP of Safety and Risk Management and I'm responsible for overseeing the safety of our 650 employees, who work in seven different divisions and perform nearly every trade in the construction industry.
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I am a Certified Safety Professional through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and a Certified Utility Safety Professional through the Utility Safety & Operations Leadership Network. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Safety & Health from Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Alabama, and am a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals. I am passionate about safety and enjoy talking with others about the importance of working safely and avoiding injuries.
"With God, all things are possible."
-Matthew 19:26
Just as occupational safety protects workers from harm and fosters a secure environment, a relationship with Jesus offers spiritual safety—a sense of peace, guidance, and protection amid life's challenges. In both, there are safeguards in place: rules, principles, and a foundation that promote well-being. While physical safety ensures our bodies are cared for, spiritual safety in Christ ensures our hearts and souls are anchored, no matter the storms around us.
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We are all born as sinners, destined to be eternally separated from God. By by His grace, God made a way for us to be reconciled to Him through the death and resurrection of His only son, Jesus, who died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. Anyone can have a relationship with Jesus, they need only ask Him to come into their hearts and help them to turn away from their sinful ways. I'm thankful that He spared my physical body from the high-voltage electrical contact incident, and that He also saved my spiritual body so that I can spend eternity with Him!
What young boy didn't growing up dreaming of becoming an astronaut, a police officer, or a pirate?
As a child, I was captivated by the idea of being a pirate—sailing the high seas with the wind in my hair and a treasure map in hand. The thrill of adventure, hidden gold, and the freedom of an untamed life sparked my imagination like nothing else.
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Following my life-altering accident, I was left with the "pirate hook" and "peg leg" I thought were so cool as a child. With my modern-day versions of these two limbs and a long-tenured career in safety, The Safety Pirate was born!
Why "The Safety Pirate?"
Interview with NC 811
Expertise
After my near-death experience in January of 1997, I transitioned into working in my company's safety department. I've spent nearly three decades working in safety and I've investigated more than 1,200 work-related injuries and managed the resulting workers' compensation claims. Through this experience, I've learned the common causes of how and why employees get injured on the job. I've seen the effectiveness of using our past experiences to prevent future incidents.
Safety, it's more than just preventing injuries
I have expertise in safety protocols, emphasizing the importance of workplace awareness, preventive measures, and fostering a culture of safety within organizations to save lives. Many employees don't understand the BIG picture of how injuries affect a company's safety culture. They may think that going to the urgent care to get a stitch in their finger is not a big deal, but it's more than just that. I regularly explain to my company's employees, as well as audiences to which I speak, that minor injuries add up and they affect a company's total recordable incident rate as well as their experience modification rating. Both of these can affect the company's ability to secure future work for their employees.
Motivation
My motivational speaking sessions focus on resilience, inspiring individuals to rise above challenges and transform adversity into personal growth and empowerment. I also share the most common reasons why people get hurt at work. From there I discuss how we can establish safety management systems to keep our people safe.
Current Events
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On August 26th, I presented at the Alabama Governor's Safety and Health Conference in Orange Beach, AL.
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On November 5th, I'll be presenting at the National Safety Council - Nebraska Safety Conference and Expo in Omaha, NE.
Feedback
Amazing speaker and experience! Thank you Mr. Toms!
Titan Loss Control Workshop Attendee
Outstanding job Bill! Extremely well put together presentation. Thank you for sharing your inspiring story.
Presidio Loss Control Workshop Attendee
The personal effect definitely made an appeal to focus and listen to his message. Definitely taking some of this back to my company to use!
Titan Loss Control Workshop Attendee
His humor and lighthearted demeanor was brilliant! Such a great speaker to enlighten the crowd!
Presidio Loss Control Workshop Attendee
Sincere story telling with valuable lessons learned. Great presentation!
Titan Loss Control Workshop Attendee
Outstanding job Bill! Extremely well put together presentation! Thank you for sharing your inspiring story!
Presdio Control Workshop Attendee
Get in Touch
Contact Bill Toms:
502-617-4665
Asheville, North Carolina