Eugene Gutierrez replacing Shirley Hickman as executive director
Threads of Life, a national Canadian charity supporting families affected by workplace tragedies, is embarking on a new chapter with the appointment of Eugene Gutierrez as its new executive director. Gutierrez, who officially assumes the role on January 15, 2025, brings a deep personal connection to the organization and a steadfast commitment to its mission.
“Eugene’s passion for Threads of Life and our mission to create a community of support for people who have endured workplace tragedy is unmatched,” says Peter Deines, chair of the board of directors. “He is a masterful communicator, and his ability to share the impact of our work is unrivaled.”
Gutierrez succeeds Shirley Hickman, the organization’s founder and executive director since 2003. Hickman established Threads of Life after losing her 21-year-old son Tim to a workplace explosion. Her vision has shaped the organization into a beacon of support and prevention, offering peer support, regional Family Forums, and national initiatives like Steps for Life.
Deines emphasizes the meticulous process undertaken to find the right successor, a search that began early in 2024. “We set up a committee of board members, worked with a recruiting firm, and marketed the position extensively. Over 400 applicants responded, and our search firm partners proactively identified another 120 potential candidates,” he explains. In total, 50 candidates engaged in initial conversations, 14 advanced to further interviews, and the board’s selection committee personally reviewed nine candidates, ultimately interviewing five finalists.
Gutierrez emerged as the clear choice. “He understands our mission, our team, and the vital work we do. Eugene’s ability to connect with staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders positions him uniquely to lead us into the future,” Deines notes.
For Gutierrez, this role is deeply personal. He joined Threads of Life in 2018 after losing his father, Bot, to a workplace fatality. “Threads of Life has been a major part of my family’s healing journey,” Gutierrez reflects in a statement. “I am deeply honored to step into this role and committed to expanding our reach to serve everyone who needs this support.”
The organization is well-prepared for this leadership transition. “We’ve got a transition plan in place,” says Deines. “Shirley and Eugene will work closely over the coming weeks to ensure continuity. From an operational standpoint, we’re in a strong position with a dedicated team of leaders and volunteers.”
Looking ahead, Deines highlights the importance of relationship-building in 2025. “The focus this year will be on Eugene establishing connections with staff, volunteers, industry stakeholders, and funders across Canada,” he explains. “This transition sets the stage for the next phase of growth for our organization.”
As Threads of Life moves forward, Deines underscores the importance of their mission. “Eugene has a strong sense of vision, and he is ready to motivate and align our group to execute on our mission—to make workplace tragedies politically, morally, and economically unacceptable.”
With Gutierrez at the helm, Threads of Life is poised to honor its roots while charting an ambitious path forward, continuing its vital work of supporting families and preventing workplace tragedies nationwide.
