On September 16th, 2025, UCLA’s Facilities Plant Manager, Michael Bellardine, and his team received the Liberty Mutual 2025 Gold Safety Award for their outstanding safety performance during the campus Cogen Repower project.

This recognition is awarded to fewer than 8% of UC system projects, according to UCOP. To qualify, projects must exceed 200,000 total work hours while maintaining a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics “DART” rate at least 80% better than the industry average.

The Cogen Repower, valued at over 80M,  is essential to ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable energy across campus, including UCLA Health and critical academic research facilities. The project engaged multiple contractors and craft specialties, achieving completion with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

This award reflects UCLA’s commitment to excellence in safety, collaboration, and innovation, setting a benchmark for future large-scale infrastructure projects.