DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2026 — Heart disease disproportionately affects the construction industry. The highly stressful and physically demanding nature of the work often leads to increased rates of cardiac arrest and heart attacks. That’s why the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives, announced two local leaders, Ron Henry, executive director of facilities planning and operations for University of Michigan Health and Kathryn Cochill, Midwest region business development director at SmithGroup, as co-chairs of the 2026 Detroit Hard Hats with Heart campaign. Hard Hats with Heart is a construction industry-specific initiative from the American Heart Association to improve the cardiovascular health of Michigan’s construction workers.

The campaign’s focus is to integrate health, well-being and prevention solutions into the industry’s culture by inspiring companies to implement initiatives to help employees improve health such as providing healthy food options, promoting physical activity during breaks, implementing stress-reducing programs, educating employees about the signs of heart disease and teaching employees CPR. Workers in the construction industry are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In fact, 343,000 construction workers (1 in 25) have already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease [1].

“I’m 59, and heart health has always been personal for me,” Henry said. “I lost a grandfather to a heart attack before I ever knew him, and my dad has had heart issues his whole life —thankfully, he’s still with us. I also have a pacemaker due to sinus bradycardia caused by an illness at a young age. In the design and construction industry, our livelihoods depend on the tradesmen and tradeswomen who work hard every day. It’s critical to make sure they are heart healthy, and that’s what motivates me. I’m looking forward to raising awareness and making a real impact for the people who build our communities.”

Cochill echoes those sentiments. “I’ve spent my career in the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and I’ve seen firsthand how much we rely on the health and well-being of the people who build our communities,” she said. “Supporting Hard Hats with Heart is my way of giving back, helping raise awareness and providing resources so those in our industry can lead longer, healthier lives.”

“It is an honor to work with Ron and Kathryn,” said Nicole Johnson, American Heart Association development director. “They are the perfect co-chairs for Hard Hats with Heart, considering their years of experience, expertise, knowledge of the business, creativity and their leadership with the rest of the Executive Leadership Team.”

For more information on Hard Hats with Heart Detroit visit www.heart.org/detroithardhats or contact Nicole Johnson at Nicole.Johnson@heart.org


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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

 

For Media Inquiries:
Sarah Rood; Sarah.Rood@heart.org
For Public Inquiries
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721), heart.org and stroke.org

 

[1] https://wwwn.cdc.gov/Niosh-whc/chart/brfss-chronic?OU=CVD&T=O&V=R2