“There is no such thing as a right decision or wrong decision. There is the decision, and you make it right.” —Gene Kermit Verble // April 5, 1952 to April 23, 2025
As native North Carolinian, Gene was known and respected within the local community well before he established a business here. He was born in Concord, graduating from the local Central Cabarrus High School then earning his BA degree from NC State University. Gene enjoyed spending time with family with interests ranging from relaxing on the Carolina coast, fishing on his boat and golfing with his buddies to both playing and watching sports. He and his wife Nancy were active members of Multiply Church in Concord.
Gene’s vision and values have been the foundation of Safewaze since 1994. After spending years in sales and distribution for the apparel and arborist industries, Gene and his brother-in-law Darrell Hagler started Safewaze fall protection in their garage. In 2024, with the company having surpassed the 30-year milestone, the leadership baton was passed to Gene’s son, Stephen Hartsell. Safewaze now boasts more than 100,000 square feet, over 135 employees and a state-of-the-art, 4-story lab aptly named the Gene Verble Testing & Training Facility. This facility stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy and a source of inspiration for all who follow in his footsteps.
