The Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a zero-suicide industry. We recently sat down with CIASP Executive Director Sonya Bohmann to learn more about how this nonprofit is raising awareness, providing resources, and transforming the industry.

PROS REPS RUGGED: How did CIASP start?  

Bohmann: Our roots trace back to the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), where an article in Building Profits magazine first highlighted the growing problem of suicide in construction. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, CFMA formed committees and held summits to explore solutions. By 2018, it became clear that this work required a dedicated nonprofit, and CIASP was established as a stand-alone 501(c)(3).  

PROS REPS RUGGED: Tell us about yourself and your background. 

Bohmann: My background is in light construction: remodels, refresh and facilities maintenance. Having spent a decade in that industry, I was keenly aware of the stressors that happen on a jobsite — from the long hours and sleep deprivation to the pressure of completing a job on time and under budget — not to mention the isolation that often comes with working away from home. Construction is unique and comes with its own unique set of risk factors. After tuning into a webinar during COVID on the topic of construction suicide prevention, I started following CIASP on LinkedIn and recommending them as a resource.  

 Suicide prevention was already a topic near and dear to my heart, as a loss survivor, I was already actively involved in this mission on a community level. When CIASP posted the opening for their first paid employee, the executive director, I knew it was my dream job. This was an opportunity to combine my passion for advocacy and prevention education with an industry I love — one that urgently needed this conversation to be amplified. Now 18 months into this position, I am encouraged by the progress being made in this industry — the awareness that is being raised, the conversations that are being had, and more importantly, the advocacy that is happening. While we are a very long way away from a zero-suicide industry, we are laying the groundwork.   

PROS REPS RUGGED: What is CIASP’s mission? 

Bohmann: Every day, 14 to 15 construction workers die by suicide — six times the number of workplace fatalities. Suicide impacts every level of the industry, across all genders and cultures. Our mission is to provide free, accessible resources to help companies and workers address mental health and suicide prevention, all with the ultimate goal of achieving a zero-suicide industry.  

PROS REPS RUGGED: Who is on your board of trustees? 

Bohmann: Our board of trustees includes 15 construction industry professionals, ranging from contractors of all sizes to association leaders, researchers, suppliers, and business owners. This diversity ensures our work reflects the needs of the entire industry. Importantly, all CIASP resources are free. Cost should never be a barrier to supporting the mental health and well-being of workers.  

PROS REPS RUGGED: What resources do you offer? 

Bohmann: We offer various resources: 

Needs Analysis: A tool for companies to evaluate their mental health and suicide prevention efforts. 

Toolbox Talks: Five short discussions designed to introduce field staff to mental health topics.  

Videos: Stories and strategies for starting meaningful conversations about mental health.  

Mental Health Screening Tool: A confidential, anonymous tool developed with MindWise to help individuals assess their mental well-being.  

PROS REPS RUGGED: How can individuals stay up to date with CIASP and join you on your mission?  

Bohmann: We actively engage with our audience on social media, especially LinkedIn, to share informative posts about risks, warning signs, and ways to seek help. Join us to stay informed and contribute to this life-saving mission. Prevention is not competition. Together, we can save lives. Visit www.preventconstructionsuicide.com and follow us on social media to be part of this critical effort.