Julie Ewing

Julie is the Director of Environment, Safety, and Health (ESH) at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead, South Dakota. In her role as Director, she is dedicated to fostering a safe and sustainable workplace for everyone. Julie oversees environmental initiatives, ensures compliance with health regulations, and promotes a culture of safety throughout the organization. Her responsibilities also include leading site security programs, emergency management, and response initiatives. She is committed to empowering team members to voice safety concerns and prioritizes well-being and environmental stewardship. Every day, Julie collaborates with a dedicated team to champion safety and well-being, and she finds it rewarding to see their efforts lead to a healthier environment for everyone involved.

Julie’s position allows her to collaborate with both local agencies and international organizations, helping to develop a world-class safety program at SURF. As a member of SURF’s wellness team, she promotes healthier lifestyles for all staff. Julie also serves on the Advisory Council board for Monument Health, where she contributes to the planning and operations of the local hospital to meet community health needs. Additionally, she is a member of the Foundation for Health Board, a nonprofit organization supporting health and safety initiatives in the community to enhance overall well-being.

With over 21 years of experience in the environment, safety, and health field, Julie has worked across industries such as construction and mining, managing compliance with agencies like MSHA, OSHA, ATF, DOT, and various state, federal, and local environmental agencies. Her accomplishments include reducing risk through the development and implementation of ESH systems, significantly lowering workers' compensation rates, launching workplace wellness programs, and creating mine plans that support responsible expansion and reclamation practices for the environment and the public.

Julie grew up in the Black Hills and attended Black Hills State University, where she earned a BS in health biology. She and her husband, TJ, have had the privilege of raising their three children—Cassidy, Lanie, and Ty—in the area. They raise cattle and horses on their property located between Deadwood and Spearfish and enjoy watching their kids compete in rodeo and other sports. In her free time, Julie enjoys jogging, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.