Remembering a Giant in Care, Connection, and Courage
It’s with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague, Dr. Charlie Cartwright, after a series of strokes this week.
Charlie’s influence went far beyond his leadership in workplace wellbeing and safety; he radiated light in every room he entered. He embodied care and trust through his actions, making his message something we could feel, not just hear. His authentic love for people was unmistakable. If you spent even five minutes with Charlie, you felt seen. You felt valued. You felt called to be better — for yourself and for your community.
Charlie’s impact in our industry runs deep. As a keynote speaker at the 2023 Construction Working Minds Summit, his session “Intersections That Lead to Connections” reminded us that:
“Connections drive inclusion. Connections improve lives. Connections save lives.”
He challenged all of us to build environments where trust runs deep, where people feel safe to speak their truth, and where compassion is a way of life — and he embodied those values in every space he entered.
In 2024, Charlie helped lead some of the most important conversations in our field — including a Leadership Roundtable sponsored by Google on the future of psychological safety in construction. His insight, presence, and humanity left an indelible mark.
Personally, Charlie was not just a hero in this movement but also a friend. I will miss his wisdom, his warmth, and his unwavering belief in our shared mission. My heart goes out to all his friends and family who are grieving.
We’ve lost a giant.
But Charlie’s legacy continues — in every connection he inspired, every workplace made more humane, and every life he touched.
Rest peacefully, Charlie. We’ll keep carrying the work forward, just like you taught us.
With courage and love,
Sally Spencer-Thomas