Congratulations to our SMS Standout Chris Matherne. Chris has been heading up our HSE consulting efforts and aided in the development of manuals and protocols. Additionally, he has embraced the use of new software and techniques required to track and report the progress to our client. Excellent work, Chris!
We were able to get a glimpse into what a day at work looks like for Chris and learn some fun facts about him.
A.A. Describe a typical day at work.
C.M. I support the safety needs of businesses in oil and gas, manufacturing, electrical, marine, and construction which makes each day different. Database management, policy writing, developing training, completing audits, to conducting industrial hygiene surveys can all be a part of the work week.
A.A. What was the best vacation you have ever taken?
C.M. Renting a cabin in Tennessee. I like adventure, and the region provides many family activities.
A.A. Describe yourself in one sentence.
C.M. Hardworking and quick learner that strives to meet goals.
A.A. What is your favorite thing about your job?
C.M. In the consulting role, the phone rings when something is wrong. It’s my job to solve whatever problem the client has. The client is always appreciative, and it is rewarding to solve a client’s problems.
A.A. What food could you live on for a month?
C.M. While working in Oroville, California, I found one taco truck that was better than any I had ever had. Louisiana has nothing that comes close.
A.A. 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?
C.M. In my spare time, I enjoy saltwater fishing. Most weekends I can be found from Lake Calcasieu to Vermilion Bay either crabbing or chasing trout and redfish.
A.A. How do you stay motivated at work?
C.M. I work from a to-do list every day. It keeps me focused on what needs to be accomplished.
A.A. What has been the most fulfilling moment in your career so far?
C.M. Passing my CSP exam
A.A.Who would play you in a movie?
C.M. It’s a tie between Grant Guidry and Chris Broussard.
A.A. Tell us about a moment that changed your life.
C.M. Starting my career with SMS has brought me to places across the country and introduced me to people I would have never had the pleasure of knowing.
A.A. What would be your advice for future [safety professionals]?
C.M. Never stop educating yourself.
A.A. What is your favorite activity outside of work?
C.M. Fishing.
A.A. Name one book that inspired you professionally.
C.M. I do not have one.
A.A. Which talent or superpower would you most like to have and why?
C.M. Being able to fly at the speed of light. I could travel anywhere for the day.
A.A. What was the best advice you were ever given?
C.M. Have a sense of urgency.
A.A. Do you have a bucket list? What are the top 3 things on it?
C.M. 1. Spend time on a sportfishing boat chasing tuna and marlin.
2. Shoot a trophy deer.
3. Learn how to make those tacos I mentioned earlier.
A.A. Do you have any pets? What are their names?
C.M. We have a family dog that is a Morkie named Tank Leroy Jenkins Balboa.
A.A. A penguin walks through the door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say, and why is he here?
C.M. “Is this Jeff’s house?“ Your guess is as good as mine as to why Jeff needs a penguin.