Remote Paramedic Ken Smathers was nominated for an SMS Standout by Field Support Supervisor Leighton Guilbeau for excellent performance and living the SMS mission.
Leighton says, “Ken is the Gulf of Mexico’s Ace in the Hole remote paramedic when it comes to helping out with last minute openings. He has not only saved me by filling the vacant shifts but has assisted the other Gulf supervisors with their schedules as well. Ken is very thorough with reports and patient care. He always has a positive, can do attitude and is an asset to our company.” Congrats Ken! We sat down with Ken to see what keeps him motivated at work.
AC: Describe a typical day at work.
KS: My day mostly consists of paperwork for the company. I keep track and distribute the POB, track their Safety Observation Cards, manage training and basically whatever else they ask me to do. It really makes the day go by faster when I can keep busy.
AC: How do you get pumped up for the day?
KS: I keep my mind on what else needs to be done. As long as I have tasks to complete it makes the time go by.
AC: What was the best vacation you have ever taken?
KS: My wife, youngest daughter and I went on a cruise to Key West and the Bahamas. We had a great time and even found a beach in Florida named after my Great Uncle that I never knew existed.
AC: What is your favorite thing about your job?
KC: The guys I work with out on the rig. When you spend half your year with them, they become family.
AC: What food could you live on for a month?
KS: I hate to say it but French Fries. They are not good for me but taste so good.
AC: How do you stay motivated at work?
KS: Mainly by keeping busy. I get a real feeling of satisfaction when I complete a task.
AC: What has been the most fulfilling moment in your career so far?
KS: Being requested to move to another rig by my OIM. I feel I did a good enough job that he wanted me back.
AC: Who would play you in a movie?
KS: At my former job they always said I act like John Wayne. Not really sure why, but it would be an honor.
AC: Tell us about a moment that changed your life.
KS: When I married my wife. She had two daughters and I had one. We came together as a family.
AC: What would be your advice for future [safety professionals]?
KS: Be flexible. Everything in the oil field changes. If you are not willing to adapt, you will not succeed.
AC: What is your favorite activity outside of work?
KS: I build furniture for my wife. She always has new ideas every time I go home.
AC: Which talent or superpower would you most like to have and why?
KS: The ability to see the future. I really like to plan things out in advance and adapt to the situation as it comes.
AC: Do you have a bucket list? What are the top three things on it?
KS: To travel with my wife, watch Texas A&M win a National Championship and finish the remodel of our house.
AC: Do you have any pets? What are their nicknames?
KS: My wife has a Mini Pincher. He hates me. I think he is jealous.
AC: A penguin walks through the door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?
KS: Dang it’s hot here. (Of course, I live in Texas.)
