UK Alumni Stacy Klausing & Suzie Dabbain Drive Innovation: Leading Projects & Technical Committees in [Industry/Field]

University of Kentucky Alums Lead Cutting-Edge PPE Testing Projects from ‘Head to Toe’

University of Kentucky graduates Stacy Klausing and Suzie Dabbain are spearheading innovative projects and participating in technical committees focused on comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) testing—ranging from headgear to footwear—according to a May 18, 2026, report from the university’s official news outlet, UKNow.

The two alums, both with backgrounds in engineering and materials science, are addressing critical gaps in PPE certification standards, ensuring gear meets rigorous safety benchmarks for workers across industries. Their efforts align with broader industry demands for more transparent and standardized testing protocols, particularly in sectors like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing.

A Dual Approach to PPE Safety

Klausing, who earned her degree in mechanical engineering from UK, is leading a project focused on head-to-toe PPE integration, ensuring compatibility and performance across multiple protective components. Her work builds on collaborations with industry partners to develop real-world testing methodologies that simulate high-stress environments, such as chemical exposure or extreme physical exertion.

Dabbain, a materials science alumna, is contributing to technical committees that refine PPE certification criteria. Her expertise in polymer science and durability testing is helping standardize how materials like Kevlar, Tyvek, and advanced composites are evaluated for long-term wear and tear.

Industry and Academic Collaboration

Both projects are part of a larger initiative to bridge the gap between academic research and industry adoption, with UKNow highlighting their roles in cross-disciplinary teams that include engineers, occupational health specialists, and regulatory experts. The university’s involvement underscores its commitment to translating research into actionable safety solutions, particularly in light of recent workplace incidents where substandard PPE contributed to injuries.

Broader Implications for Worker Safety

The work of Klausing and Dabbain comes as PPE-related injuries remain a persistent concern in high-risk industries. A 2025 report from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) noted that nearly 20% of workplace fatalities involved inadequate protective gear, prompting calls for stricter testing protocols. Their projects aim to preemptively address these risks by ensuring PPE meets or exceeds emerging safety standards.

Next Steps

UKNow did not specify timelines for the completion of these projects, but both alums are expected to present findings at industry conferences later this year, including the 2026 American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Expo. The university has also indicated plans to expand these initiatives into public-private partnerships, further integrating academic rigor with real-world safety needs.

For organizations seeking updates on PPE certification standards, the ASSP and OSHA remain key resources for verified guidelines.