Our people are at the heart of what we do at AdvanSix. Learn how Matt Rawls, Operations Manager at our Bucks site, helps to support our people-focused culture in his role.
Tell us about your career and what led you to AdvanSix?
I am a Mobile, Alabama native and earned my Chemical Engineering degree from the University of South Alabama in 2018. I began my career with Honeywell UOP where I traveled across the world assisting customers with start-up activities for various petroleum refining technologies. In about 4 years, I visited 15 countries and 29 states! When Covid came along, the traveling came to a halt. I found other opportunities in vehicle manufacturing and process engineering firms before returning to “the road” with UOP in 2022. Towards the end of 2023, I heard of AdvanSix and the role in Bucks while finishing up a major startup in Iraq and couldn’t pass on such a great opportunity!
At AdvanSix, it all starts with our people, products and partners. What does “it all start with” for you?
For me, it all starts with family. My wife and I had our first child in 2023 and are expecting another in 2024! Reflecting on my responsibility as a father helps drive me to strive for operational excellence and to be a steward for safety. What we do at Bucks has a reach that goes beyond just those at the site. It is important that we consider the broader picture of our actions and ensure that we are being environmentally responsible while protecting those at the site and the families around us. Operating safely empowers us to produce the agrochemicals that help feed families all over the world!
How do you help create a people-focused culture at AdvanSix?
Communication and Respect! Although it can be a challenge at times, keeping people in the loop is essential in creating an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. We have great people at Bucks with a wealth of knowledge that goes back decades. It is important to me that everyone at the site knows that they can come to me or anyone else on the Bucks leadership team if they have an idea, concern, or anything else they feel the need to escalate.
How do the products you create get used in the real world?
Some of our products at Bucks have multiple uses, but we heavily support the agricultural industry. Knowing that our chemicals are used in crop protection is a great source of pride for me. We literally help people bring food to the table!
What does “thinking beyond” mean to you and your work at AdvanSix?
It’s easy to get caught up in the day to day. We can forget how impactful our daily tasks are to the community around us and abroad. Our products have the power to improve people’s lives, so we must do all we can to maintain quality while holding health and safety in the highest regard. We have an awesome responsibility every day at AdvanSix to create important products, and thinking beyond the specs and numbers helps me to remember that our success benefits people all over the world.
Go to the AdvanSix career site.