Nucor

A Symbol of Unity

In late 1983, Ken Iverson made a bold decision from Charlotte: every Nucor teammate, regardless of role, would wear the same green hard hat. By February 1984, the transformation was complete, and green hard hats became a company-wide standard. This change was more than just a new look. Ken believed that respect for every teammate’s ideas and contributions was essential, no matter their position. The green hard hats eliminated visible distinctions between management and line workers, reflecting Nucor’s commitment to equality and collaboration. Today, the green hard hat stands as a lasting symbol of Nucor’s inclusive culture—reminding us that every voice matters.