Industrial Hygiene Technician Chris Matherne recently was nominated by Regional Manager Ryan Hester for Quality of Work and Living the SMS mission.
Ryan says, “Chris began working as an IH Tech at the Oroville Dam Spillway Emergency Response and Recovery project in early 2017. This was Chris’s first project as an IH Tech. He quickly adapted and excelled at the work. Because of Chris’ work ethic, skills and willingness to do whatever needs to be done, he was elevated to a supervisory position at the spillway and has recently been elevated again to a team lead position. In addition to his excellent work, Chris has recently achieved the BCSP designation of Certified Safety Professional (CSP). Chris is a prime example of an employee who lives out PIVOT.” We asked Chris what it was that made him such an asset to the team and here’s what he had to say.
AC: Describe a typical day at work.
CM: Day starts at 5 am, communicating with the night shift, quality control checks on previous day documents and sending samples to the lab. I take a tour of the work site, assist field techs in any equipment malfunctions, review lab results, assist in bi-weekly reports for the customer, and manage any challenges that arise during the day.
AC: What was the best vacation you have ever taken?
CM: I went on a solo hunting trip for the weekend with no cell phone. I did not talk to anyone for two days. It was the most peaceful, stress-free environment.
AC: Describe yourself in one sentence.
CM: I am simple to please, restless when not working towards a goal and my happy place is good food with good company.
AC: What is your favorite thing about your job?
CM: Having a leadership team that trusts you to make decisions and manage day to day operations.
AC: What food could you live on for a month?
CM: Seafood, no doubt about it.
AC: Do you have a side hustle, hobby or volunteer group that you’re involved in outside of work? What else do you spend your time doing?
CM: During my spare time you will find me enjoying the outdoors, I’m at the gym 4-5 times a week or cooking on the grill.
AC: How do you stay motivated at work?
CM: Coffee
AC: What has been the most fulfilling moment in your career so far?
CM: Passing the CSP exam.
AC: Who would play you in a movie?
CM: Tom Hanks, he can play anyone.
AC: Tell us about a moment that changed your life.
CM: My son was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 5 but he is now 16. It changes your outlook on things.
AC: What would be your advice for future [safety professionals]?
CM: Never stop learning.
AC: What is your favorite activity outside of work?
CM: I recently purchased a boat so it’s a tie between fishing and family cookouts.
AC: Name one book that inspired you professionally.
CM: I have found inspiration in hearing about co-workers various paths to success.
AC: Which talent or superpower would you most like to have and why?|
CM: For everything I want to communicate, it has to be being heard and understood as intended. That is a real superpower.
AC: What was the best advice you were ever given?
CM: A “sense of urgency” can not be taught in a classroom, yet it is one characteristic that will get you very far in life.
AC: Do you have a bucket list? What are the top three things on it?
CM: 1. Be a good father and role model so that my son becomes a successful adult.
- Waterfowl hunt and fish throughout the US.
- See the Saints win a Super Bowl in person.
AC: A penguin walks through the door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?
CM: Margarita anyone? Someone lost a bet.
