Meet Chanita Ward — Ergon Driver and Breast Cancer Survivor

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In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, we are featuring a breast cancer survivor who has recently found a home among the Ergon family and is living life to the fullest while encouraging others to do the same.

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MEET CHANITA WARD

Ward is a driver for Ergon Trucking in Vicksburg, Mississippi. She joined the Ergon family in 2022 and agrees it is of the best career decisions she has made. “They actually treat you like family,” said Ward. “I love driving anyway, but as far as the company, this is the best company I’ve ever worked for.” Ward has been driving trucks for 18 years, beginning with flatbed trucks and eventually transitioning to tankers.

In 2013, Ward was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy, one year of chemotherapy and 45 radiation treatments before going into remission in 2015. When asked her perspective following her stint with the disease, Ward said: “It makes you appreciate life a whole lot more. There were a lot of days I could barely even get out of bed. It makes you appreciate the little things like being able to cook, clean and take showers by yourself and having hair. It’s those little things you appreciate in life after you beat it.”

Now, in addition to participating in breast cancer awareness walks and other fundraisers, Ward encourages others to get regular checkups. “I try to encourage people to get mammograms and checkups for early detection,” she said. Ward is also part of a group that shares helpful tips for going through chemotherapy. “If you give somebody an idea of things that worked for you when you went through it, it may help them,” said Ward.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Ward moved to Mississippi from Arkansas to work for Ergon Trucking. She has been overwhelmed by the support and family she has gained. She is also grateful to work for a company with a heart of service that puts forth consistent efforts to help others, including helping to fund the fight against breast cancer.

Since 2020, under the leadership of our Ambassador of Breast Cancer Awareness Larry Tomkins, the Ergon family has supported the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative, helping to fund research for a cure as well as partnering with companies to provide transportation for cancer patients who need treatments.

This year, Ergon has a goal to reach $175,500 in donations on behalf of the organization. If you’d like to join us in our efforts, consider donating here: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/ltomkins.

Ergon Celebrates Customer Service Week

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This week is National Customer Service Week, so we wanted to highlight a few of our amazing Customer Support Specialists.

Spencer Cole

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Customer Support Specialist Spencer Cole attended Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee, where he studied business administration with a concentration in management. Spencer was a collegiate runner and now tries to turn his active lifestyle into family activities. Spencer and his wife, Lindsey, have been married for six years and have two boys, ages three and two, with a baby girl on the way.

“In this role, I am a point of contact for our customers, supporting them from the point of sale to delivery,” said Spencer. “It is my goal to help each order go as smoothly as possible to ensure our customers have exceptional experiences with Ergon.”

“I love my job because I get to help people each day,” Spencer added. ‘United by Service. Driven by Solutions.’ is not just a slogan at Ergon; it is key to my daily function. I am driven to find solutions for our customers, and I am part of a great team that exemplifies top-tier service.”

Thank you, Spencer, for your continued dedication to the Ergon family and our customers. We appreciate you!

Jorge Ackerman

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Jorge Ackerman is one of our amazing Latin America Logistics and Support Specialists for Ergon Refining Inc.

Jorge earned a bachelor’s degree in mining and engineering from National University of Engineering in Lima, Peru, a master’s in mineral economics from the University of Arizona and a Master of Business Administration from Millsaps College.

Jorge is married with four adult children and two granddaughters. He loves hiking, visiting the sea and participating in outdoor sports.

When asked about his job, Jorge said, “My favorite part is providing win-win solutions for Ergon and the customer.”

“A hard-working atmosphere is part of the Ergon culture,” he said “At Ergon, everyone shows respect for each other and assists each other whenever they need to. It is a family-oriented culture, and I am proud of the work we do together.”

Thank you, Jorge, for your hard work. We appreciate you!

Cameron Shows

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Cameron Shows is another one of our Customer Support Specialists for Ergon Refining Inc.

Cameron attended Mississippi State University where he studied business administration with a major in marketing and a minor in business management. He has been married for four years to his wife, Kimmie. They recently welcomed their first child, Palmer, into their family. They are avid Mississippi State University fans and have their very own bulldog named Duncan.

“My favorite part of my job is the people I get to work with every day — the Ergon family and our customers,” said Cameron. “The amount of support I receive internally from everyone has a huge impact on how effective I can be at my job. I’m constantly learning something new and gaining insights about how to better serve our customers and our company.”

“Ergon truly is a family,” Cameron added. “Since my first day two years ago, everyone I’ve worked with has never hesitated to answer any of my questions or offer up assistance.”

Thank you, Cameron, for your hardworking efforts. We appreciate you!

Frandy Oberto

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Meet Frandy Oberto, one of our amazing Latin America Logistics and Support Specialists for Ergon Refining Inc.

Frandy attended Virginia College where she studied business administration and management. In her position, she is responsible for optimizing the logistical operations to ensure the supply chain is efficient and effective throughout our Brownsville, Texas, terminals by coordinating, scheduling and monitoring the distribution of specialty oils.

“Ergon’s company culture is one that values strong relationships and family,” said Frandy. “Ergon is mission-driven, with relentless focus on excellent customer service while embodying the values we want to see in the workplace. With international offices and a robust team, we are able to work with passionate, growth-minded experts from around the world.”

Aside from working with amazing customers and colleagues from across the world, Frandy’s favorite part about working for Ergon is knowing she works for a family-owned company that shares the same culture, mission, vision and core values as she does.

Thank you, Frandy, for all you do. The Ergon Family appreciates you!

Ty Baker

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Next, we’d like to highlight Ty Baker, Senior Customer Support Specialist for Ergon Refining Inc.

Ty attended the University of Mississippi where he studied marketing and political science. He spends most of his weekends traveling the Southeast, playing guitar in his friend’s band. Ty also has a recording studio at home where he writes and produces music.

Ty came to Ergon after working at Raymond James in Memphis, Tennessee, in Private Client Wealth Management as a Financial Advisor. Since joining Ergon, Ty says, “I love working in a dynamic environment. Our team interacts with so many different internal and external stakeholders. We are constantly faced with new opportunities to learn, and that in itself is rewarding.”

Ty shared that he loves working for a company that puts its people first. “I can honestly say I’ve never had a bad day at Ergon, and I credit that to the people and the culture,” he said. “This company treats you like family from day one, and that is not something you will find everywhere. Ergon embodies a culture that leads others to do things the right way regardless of circumstances.”

Thank you, Ty, for your dedication to the Ergon Family. We appreciate all you do!

Luke Robinson

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Meet Luke Robinson! Luke is a Customer Support Specialist for Ergon Refining Inc.

Luke attended Mississippi State University where he studied marketing. He has been married to his wife, Maddie, for five years. They have a two-year-old daughter, Eva, and a black lab named Charlie. Luke enjoys hunting when he is not spending time with his family and friends.

Luke started his Ergon journey as a Logistics Coordinator for Ergon Trucking. After learning the ropes there, a position opened within Ergon’s Customer Service Department, and Luke jumped at the opportunity to advance. Now, Luke works as part of a team that receives customer orders for lube oils and coordinates deliveries with various bulk carriers and Ergon’s rail team.

“Ergon still values true leadership and mentorship, and I appreciate that as an employee,” said Luke. “Since being at Ergon, I feel that you can learn something from everyone you speak to. With Ergon being so multifaceted, you gain perspective from people across multiple backgrounds with expertise in different fields.”

Thank you, Luke, for your loyalty to the Ergon Family. We appreciate you and your hard work!

Tameka Moore

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Tameka Moore is one of our wonderful Ergon Refining Inc.’s Customer Support Specialists.

Tameka attended Jacksonville State University where she studied accounting. Within her position at Ergon, Tameka receives customers’ orders, schedules loads with the terminals, dispatches orders to trucking, generates service reports and helps troubleshoot customer issues that may arise.

“My favorite part of my job is working with a supportive team and collaborating to deliver exceptional service. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to gain experience, which keeps the job interesting and helps me grow professionally. I enjoy working for Ergon because the company fosters a positive and inclusive work culture where employees are treated with respect and kindness. Ergon provides many opportunities for professional development and advancement, which keeps me motivated.”

When asked what advice she would give to someone who wants to pursue a career in customer service, Tameka said, “A career in customer service can be rewarding. It allows you to make a difference in people’s lives by providing assistance and solving problems. The Customer Service Specialist needs to be well-versed in the product or service they are supporting, and they must always prioritize the customer’s needs and satisfaction.”

Thank you, Tameka, for all of your hard work. The Ergon Family appreciates you!

Lincoln Kern

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Lincoln Kern is an outstanding Operations Specialist within Ergon Refining Inc.’s Customer Service Department.

Lincoln attended Mississippi State where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history. He then went on to earn both a master’s degree in higher education administration and a master’s degree in administration of justice from Mississippi College. Lincoln has been happily married for five years and has a three-year-old child.

“My favorite part of my job is the interdepartmental work that I get to do,” said Lincoln. “Working through the challenges of bringing different groups together to accomplish a common goal — I get to learn more and more each day about different departments, even the ones outside of the Specialty Oils division.”

When asked how he came to Ergon, Lincoln said, “I interviewed and was offered the job which turned out to be the best decision of my life to get to work under Maribel Melo and to be empowered by her — to find myself and my passion for the work that I do today.”

Thank you, Lincoln, for all you do for the Ergon Family. We appreciate you!

Alma Delacruz

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Alma Delacruz is another one of our amazing Latin America Logistics and Support Specialists for Ergon Refining Inc.

Alma attended Hinds Community College where she initially studied nursing, but changed her path and got her degree in business. Alma is originally from Cleveland, Tennessee, and has been married for six years. She has three children and a goldendoodle. Alma enjoys traveling with her family and takes her kids on many adventures. She also likes vlogging and sharing videos of what motherhood looks like in addition to things her family enjoys during the weekends.

“I enjoy interacting and building relationships with customers,” said Alma. “Because I work on the Latin America side, I get to interact with a lot of people who share the same language and culture as I do, and that makes me feel at home at times. This position involves a lot of problem solving that I also enjoy as well.  Overall, in customer service, I truly appreciate how we all help each other out so we can all be better and learn more instead of competing against one another.”

Thank you, Alma, for your dedication to the Ergon Family. We appreciate you!

Michelle Pickett

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Meet Michelle Pickett, another one of our incredible Customer Support Specialists for Ergon Refining Inc.

Michelle attended Mississippi Delta Community College where she studied communications. She started her professional career in banking, where she built strong relationships throughout the years that eventually led her to Ergon.

“When a position became available in customer service, I was lucky enough to be thought of as someone who could be an asset to the company and was referred as a possible candidate for the job.”

After deciding to change her career path after 20 years in the banking industry, Michelle had to rely on the people around her to teach her, slowly learning from them, asking for help when needed and hearing feedback when given. “While I’ve learned a lot from the people in my department and all the team members outside the office that I get to work with throughout the day, I still have more opportunity for growth, and I can’t think of a better group of individuals to share in the experience with me,” said Michelle.

Thank you, Michelle, for all of your hard work. We appreciate you!

Andi Pugh

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Meet Andi Pugh, Ergon Customer Support Specialist for Ergon Refining Inc.

Andi attended Hinds Community College where she studied communications. She is a mother of two, with a 12-year-old daughter and an eight-year-old son, and she also has two dogs. Andi loves going to the gym, and she enjoys the outdoors — mainly fishing, hunting and traveling.

“My favorite part of my job is my coworkers/work family. Having a work family that has welcomed me with open arms and embraced me in the way that Ty Bailey and my team have makes it more enjoyable. The sales team, the customers and the camaraderie that comes with it make my job much easier. I can say for once, I love coming to work.”

Thank you, Andi, for all you do for the Ergon Family. We appreciate you!

Jacob Lord

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Our final Customer Service Week highlight is Jacob Lord, a Customer Support Specialist for Ergon Refining Inc.

Jacob attended Mississippi College where he studied business administration. He has been married to his wife, Sarah, since 2019, and they share a daughter, Magnolia Grace. They also have a Corgi named Bennie. Jacob loves spending time with his family, and he is also an avid fan of several sports teams: New Orleans Saints, New Orleans Pelicans, Atlanta Braves and the Florida State Seminoles.

“My favorite part about working for Ergon is the workplace environment. It truly feels like a second family.” said Jacob.

“I took note of Ergon’s company culture from the first time I stepped through the door,” Jacob added. “From day one, Ergon has shown me what it is like to work for a first-class company who values their employees each and every day. Ergon truly cares about you as a person, and the family atmosphere further proves that Ergon is trending as one of the best places to work.”

Thank you, Jacob, for all of your hard work. The Ergon Family is happy to have you!

Paul Wentz – Regional Operator Exchange Program

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At Ergon, Purposeful Growth is a core value we strive to live out every day. Ergon management is committed to creating opportunities to further develop employees and set them up for professional and personal advancement. As part of efforts to support employee success, Ergon Terminaling Inc. (ETI) has developed the Regional Operator Exchange Program (ROEP).

The ROEP was initiated by ETI as a way to broaden the experiences of Operators by exposing them to the innerworkings of various terminaling locations. Through this program, Operators can acquire new skills and develop a well-rounded perspective of terminal operations, as one terminal may operate differently from another. Not only does this training help during emergency situations where employees may be needed at various locations, but it is a good opportunity for employees wanting to advance in their careers.

The first Operator to complete the program was Paul Wentz, Operator II, from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Wentz participated in the program for three days at ETI’s Knoxville, Tennessee, terminal. The goal for his exchange was for him to learn enough about the Knoxville terminal to be able to act as a temporary Operator if the need ever arises. During his time in the ROEP, Wentz participated in pump maintenance and replacement, including learning to replace an additive pump, asphalt loading, transfers and shutdown.

Wentz shared that he feels more confident and more equipped for his job because of the program, and that this experience reaffirmed his goal to one day become a Terminal Manager. Wentz commented, “I feel like even though operations may be slightly different at each terminal, the one constant is our commitment to keeping everyone safe and getting the product to customers as quickly and safely as we can.”

Additionally, Wentz felt fully supported by management during his experience and is now working closely with his manager, David Ogletree, to polish some of the smaller details of the program to make it a smoother process for future Operators who want to participate. Ogletree said, “This program is a great opportunity for our Senior Operators to experience the operations of other Ergon facilities and expand their knowledge and skills.”

If you want to learn, Ergon is willing to provide opportunities for you to broaden your horizons. That’s how we support purposeful employee growth.

Ergon’s Emergency Response Teams

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Learn how the Emergency Response Team volunteers from Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI) and Ergon – West Virginia Inc. (EWV) are furthering their training to help ensure the safety and well-being of refinery employees and the communities we serve. We are grateful for their commitment to safety and their willingness to protect their peers.

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Emergency Response Teams are Doing Right by Saving Lives

Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI) and Ergon – West Virginia Inc. (EWV) have on-site volunteers who serve on Emergency Response Teams (ERTs), which were created as part of an ongoing commitment to health and safety at Ergon facilities. ERT members undergo necessary training on strategic processes in emergency situations and ways to mitigate risks of injuries and illnesses to the Ergon family.

At EWV, the ERT consists of 48 volunteers who respond to several types of emergencies, both within the facility and in the community. These ERT members receive medical training at the first responder level, and some volunteers are also trained in many facets of technical rescue, including high-angle, confined-space, trench and water rescue. Many EWV ERT volunteers have also obtained basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), advanced EMT and paramedic certifications.

At ERI, the newly established ERT consists of 25 volunteers, and they are actively recruiting more members. ERT members receive fire, hazardous materials and medical emergency response training. In the future, the team will participate in more extensive firefighting training and will also train in confined space, trench and water rescue. Ensuring health and safety and saving lives is the top priority for these Ergon Emergency Response Teams, and we are grateful for the efforts of our family of volunteers.

This initiative is one of many we embrace as part of efforts to ensure a safe work environment. Our goal is for every employee to return home safe, healthy and whole every day. The ERTs are important for quick response in the event of an emergency. This safety initiative puts actions to words and makes our workplace safer each day.

The Ergon Way – Message From the CEO

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Ergon was incorporated on July 1, 1970, bringing the family of companies we’ve developed since 1954 and beyond under one organization. As we celebrate the 53rd year of operating as One Ergon: United by Service, Driven by Solutions, Ergon President and CEO Kris Patrick reflects on the values that drive Ergon’s success.

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There is much excitement in the air surrounding all the opportunities that lie ahead for the Ergon organization. We are investing in innovation, in new avenues to provide the products our customers need to succeed and in the Ergon family of employees through education, training, growing our workforce and being intentional about safety every day.

With all of this exciting change, one thing that will remain consistent is who we are. Ergon is driven by our core values of Empowered Service, Selfless Leadership, Purposeful Growth and Respectful Relationships. We do things differently, and we do things right. We like to call it The Ergon Way.

We Want the Best for our Customers
We prioritize our customers. It is our goal to ensure they have competitive advantages, and that starts with attentiveness and genuine care for their well-being. Ergon customers are part of our family, and like family, we want what’s best for them.

Our Frontline Employees Are the Heart of Ergon
Customer success starts with employee success. Ergon’s frontline employees play a critical role in keeping Ergon moving forward. Leaders across our family of companies are committed to serving and setting our dedicated workforce up for success, enabling them to serve our customers to the best of their ability while achieving purposeful personal growth as well.

Our Legacy of Selfless Leadership and Service Remains Strong
We will never forget the strong legacy that Ergon Founder, Mr. Lampton, and his sons, Leslie, Lee, Bill and Robert, established for Ergon through their authentic and selfless leadership style. We are thankful for their leadership and their reinvestments back into the company and our people. What we do as a business is the direct result of the Lampton family’s continued support. They have provided the foundation and the blueprint that we will carry on for future generations.

As we continue to expand our horizons as an organization, our mission remains the same: meet needs, support families and serve our great customers. That’s who we are and who we will always be.

That’s the Ergon Way.

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If you’re interested in working the Ergon Way, visit our careers page to find out how you can join our family.

A Century of Asphalt Emulsions

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This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of modernized emulsified asphalt. Asphalt emulsions applied on the right road at the right time are critical factors in pavement preservation worldwide. And properly preserved, well-maintained roadways are crucial to ensuring safer routes to and from jobs, schools, homes, stores, entertainment and more. With such an important role in quality of life for all, we couldn’t let this year pass without saying Happy Birthday to Asphalt Emulsion! In this blog post, Dr. Gaylon Baumgardner, EVP – Technical Operations for Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions and President of the International Bitumen Emulsion Federation (IBEF), briefly walks us through the history of emulsions and how Ergon is taking advantage of opportunities to partner with associations, those in academia and others to research, innovate and develop strategies for the efficient and sustainable use of this material to improve infrastructure.

Ergon is proud of the work Dr. Baumgardner is overseeing as President of IBEF. He is a shining example of our commitment to using our technical expertise to advance the industries we serve.

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100 Years of Asphalt Emulsions

Emulsified asphalt, also referred to as liquid asphalt because of its liquid state at ambient temperatures, includes both cutback asphalt and asphalt emulsion. A cutback asphalt is made by adding a diluent, typically a petroleum distillate, to refined asphalt. Cutback asphalt has reportedly been used in road construction since the 1800s. And there was a major expansion of cutback asphalt from the 1930s through the 1970s. Although still utilized for various applications, new developments over time and ultimately a push to mitigate uncontrolled hydrocarbon emissions in the U.S. specifically led to a push for further development, education and use of the more sustainable emulsified asphalt — asphalt emulsion. Asphalt emulsion is a mixture of two normally immiscible components, asphalt and water, combined with an emulsifying agent often referred to as a surfactant. The following timeline of asphalt emulsion gives you a glimpse into its considerable advancement over the past century.

A Timeline of Asphalt Emulsion
The first reported use of asphalt emulsion in pavement construction was in 1903, with the first asphalt emulsion patents issued to Leonard Schade van Westrum in the United Kingdom and then in the United States in late 1903 and early 1904 (Ref UK No. 21,195 October 1903 and US No. 752,486 February 1904). Westrum was issued a later patent in 1911 as well (US No. 992,313 May 1911). Modern asphalt emulsions in use today were patented by Hugh Alan McKay with the UK patent No. 202,021 in August 1923.

Patented technology prior to 1923 primarily focused on oil emulsions for road applications; however, a distinction can be made. Westrum’s approach to emulsifying oil contained a greater component of water and a lesser component of oil/asphalt. In Westrum’s first work, the water component was more than 75%. Furthermore, the dispersed oil component was a blend of oil and asphalt, much like what is referred to as “road oil” today. The 1923 McKay patent describes in detail an emulsion consisting of 70% asphalt (bitumen) and 30% water. This is a bit more like the asphalt emulsion produced and used today. Hence, we celebrate 100 years since the birth of modern asphalt emulsions in road construction.

Emulsions – The Answer to Hydrocarbon Emission Reduction
Use of asphalt emulsion has grown considerably over the past century, more specifically in the last half-century. The primary reason is a response to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by the executive order of President Richard Nixon in 1970. In 1975, the EPA estimated that uncontrolled hydrocarbon emissions from the use of cutback asphalt were 655 kilotons per year. With the 1977 EPA publication of a guideline series, “Control of Volatile Organic Compounds From Use of Cutback Asphalt,” a large-scale national conversion from use of solvent cutback asphalt to asphalt emulsions was initiated. The advantages of converting from cutback asphalt to asphalt emulsions in terms of conservation of energy and reduction of air pollution were, and are, accepted by all concerned.

Organizations Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions (EAE) personnel are part of today, including the Asphalt Emulsion Manufacturers Association, the International Slurry Surfacing Association and the International Bitumen Emulsion Federation, to name a few, are dedicated to facilitating research and dialogue among agencies, suppliers, engineers, those in academia and more, on how to adopt, refine and efficiently utilize asphalt emulsions to preserve and maintain roadways, with minimal harm to the environment.

With today’s environmental and social governance narrative, there is increased concern over environmental impacts from all facets of the road construction industry. Engineers, environmentalists and major companies are concerned with the impact of construction methods and materials on workers and the environment.

Sustainability – The Ergon Way
Ergon A&E has been at the cutting edge of environmentally friendly asphalt emulsion technology and has long promoted the use of asphalt emulsions for various applications to achieve good performance while also reducing environmental risk. In fact, ePrime, one of Ergon A&E’s eSeries products, is an eco-friendly prime coat that is completely free of volatile organic compounds. Ergon A&E also supplies emulsion binders for recycled asphalt treatments that reduce emissions and energy consumption during construction. There is plenty more on the horizon with regard to more sustainable asphalt emulsion products for the end user, as well as more sustainable processes for product development.

This is an exciting time for research and development of modern asphalt emulsions, and the opportunities are vast. Emulsions make up a highly diverse heterogenous system. It is understandable why numerous researchers from all industries have studied this type of material for centuries. Ergon A&E looks forward to continuing partnerships with companies, associations and universities to further contribute to the knowledge and advancement of this versatile material.

Happy Birthday, Asphalt Emulsion! Here’s to many more.

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IBEF is heading to Poland as a bronze sponsor of the European Asphalt Technology Association Conference on June 12-14, 2023, which will focus on 100 years of emulsion in addition to other topics impacting the emulsion industry at large.

Meet Jamian Rush, Sustainability Specialist

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Making sense of sustainability within the industries Ergon serves is not always simple. Here to help us unpack the term is Jamian Rush, Sustainability Specialist in Ergon’s Product Stewardship Department, who suggests that we not only take a step back and consider how our contributions positively impact society but also remember Ergon has been built on a foundation of doing the right thing since the very beginning.

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Sustainability is the practice of balancing the needs of the present with those of future generations and is a critical consideration for solution-oriented companies like Ergon. Using sustainable practices such as reducing waste and eliminating inefficiencies, Ergon is able to protect its resources, environment and the trust it has earned among a wide variety of stakeholders. Sustainability and Doing Right extend beyond Ergon’s commitment to delivering the highest standard of products and customer service, all the way to contributing toward a sound business strategy that is continually supported.

I have had the opportunity to visit several facilities across various business units within Ergon and have witnessed what we call One Ergon in full effect. That is where each area of the organization comes together, taking the synergistic approach to ensuring high-value solutions for our customers across various industries. I have visited some sites alone and others with Bonnie Chapman, Mary Ellen Snow, Lakeisha Jones and David Warden of the Product Stewardship Department. During my visits, I interact with Ergon’s Operations and Product Development personnel, which allows me the opportunity to be a student again and become familiar with Ergon’s beautiful complexities. Throughout these visits, I continue to gain additional insight into how I can aid with sustainability advisement and assist in collecting and reporting on sustainability-related stories. My work supports the implementation, execution and evolution of Ergon’s sustainability strategy, including aiding in developing our third annual Doing Right Report.

Built Around Doing Right
My passion for sustainability was realized during my studies at York University in Toronto, Ontario, where I obtained my bachelor’s degree and continued to evolve as I pursued my Master of Science in Sustainability Management from the Kogod School of Business at American University in Washington, D.C. My research and experience at American University showed me how sustainable actions can create value for many industries. During my studies, I was enrolled in an International Practicum in Stockholm, Sweden, in which I advised on long-term strategic development for Hexicon, a floating offshore wind farm company. The lessons I learned at Hexicon revolved around having a holistic view and a keen sense of detail that I carry with me every day. However, it was the opportunity to intern at Ergon that elevated these qualities. At Ergon, I saw how our products contribute significantly to society and that we are more than an oil and gas company — we are an “ease-of-life” company. By reducing friction, pioneering pavement preservation and providing durable coatings that protect offshore wind assets, we positively impact society. As a graduate student, I felt my duty was to educate my classmates and professors that sustainability does not mean eliminating our industry. Suggesting that they take a step back, I asked them to consider how our contributions positively impacted their way of life. Sustainability is about what Ergon has been dedicated to since the very beginning: meeting needs, supporting families and serving our customers.

Committed to Excellence
I am excited to be part of the Ergon family! Beginning as an intern in October 2020 while completing my bachelor’s degree and since joining the Product Stewardship team full time in December 2022, Ergon has helped me better understand the importance of the role we play in society. I appreciate the opportunity to work with members of the Ergon family and look forward to supporting the organization’s sustainability strategy and helping us all to remain mindful of how our actions will impact future generations.

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Staying informed is a great way to recognize and appreciate the positive impact Ergon has had on society for decades and helps us remain committed to our mission of Doing Right for future generations. Part of our commitment to doing right includes attracting, retaining and supporting knowledgeable employees like Jamian whose passion and dedication to their work help ensure the continued success of Ergon around the world.

To learn even more on how we are doing right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles, click the link to view or download a PDF of Ergon’s 2022 Doing Right Report — https://ergon.com/sustainability.

From the Heart for the Heart — Ergon’s First Healthy Heart Campaign

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On February 3, 2023, during American Heart Month, Ergon kicked off our first Healthy Heart Campaign created to increase awareness of the causes and symptoms of heart disease and stroke, provide employees with healthy heart tips and raise funds on behalf of the American Heart Association (AHA).

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The campaign began with an organization-wide Wear Red Day celebration as well as a video message to the Ergon family from Lee Lampton, son of Ergon founder Leslie Lampton Sr. In the video, Lee shared the story of how his battle with heart disease began and the steps he has taken to ensure he stays on top of his heart health to date. Ergon employees were encouraged to share their heart stories as well throughout the campaign period, some of which helped others identify symptoms they may not have known were connected to heart disease.

Lee Lampton shares his heart story with the Ergon family.

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Each week of the campaign, employees had the opportunity to donate funds toward the AHA Go Red for Women/Woman of Impact initiative for a chance to win a raffle prize for that week. All donors were then entered into a grand prize drawing. While the campaign included all Ergon companies, Ergon Corporate also incorporated Food Truck Days in which a portion of the proceeds from food truck sales went to the AHA. Over the nine-week campaign, Ergon raised approximately $27,000.

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Healthy Heart Ambassador
Ergon Board Member Amy Walker served as our Healthy Heart Ambassador and was one of AHA’s Metro Jackson (Mississippi) Go Red for Women/Woman of Impact representatives. For Walker, heart disease is an issue she is all too familiar with, which has driven her motivation for wanting to do her part to help others. “Heart disease has greatly impacted my family,” said Walker. “My father Lee Lampton’s struggles with heart disease began at age 52. I lost my maternal grandfather to a heart attack when he was just 52 years old as well. Also, my father-in-law and sister-in-law died of heart attacks.” In addition to heart disease hitting close to home, Walker’s motivation for her involvement includes being able to enhance research on how to help women specifically, as heart disease and stroke claim the life of a woman every 80 seconds.

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Did You Know?

According to Go Red for Women, men have historically been the subjects of research on heart disease and stroke, making them the basis for treatments and guidelines and leaving a gap in education on the impact of heart disease and stroke on women. Funds donated by the Ergon family went toward the AHA’s Go Red for Women/Woman of Impact initiative to help ensure more balanced measures to treat and/or reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. “I’m proud to be part of the network of women leaning into our power to help transform lives and mitigate the risk of heart disease,” said Walker.

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Metro Jackson Go Red for Women Luncheon
Following Ergon’s Healthy Heart Campaign, Ergon was honored to attend the 2023 Metro Jackson Go Red for Women Luncheon where Walker was named the Woman of Impact runner up. “I share this recognition with the entire Ergon family for their efforts and generous donations,” said Walker, “Thank you.”

Also, during the luncheon, Cindy Wagner represented Ergon as she cat walked down the Heart Disease Survivor Fashion Show runway. Cindy is a heart attack survivor who is passionate about encouraging women to take care of their hearts.

 

“The symptoms of women’s heart attacks are so different than men,” said Cindy. “My pain was in the middle of my back and my right jaw — no chest pain, no left arm pain. It turned out I had 98% blockage and had to have a stent put in.” We are grateful to Cindy for sharing her heart story and for being an advocate for women’s heart health.

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Donations to the AHA go toward funding research and education initiatives, supporting advocacy of healthier communities, improving patient care and more.

Achieving Healthier Lives One Step at A Time

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On this National Walking Day, we touch on what walking means for physical and mental health, celebrate the dramatic impact of Ergon Active and shine a light on a few of the many Ergon employees who are enjoying healthier lives due to more active lifestyles.

As the Ergon family continues to meet needs, support families and serve customers around the world, it is important that we incorporate daily physical activities that help maintain and improve our body’s ability to move freely, otherwise known as mobility. Often regarded as a key to longevity, mobility decreases the risk of injury, improves circulation, boosts creativity and cognitive function, relieves stress and helps us manage our moods. Essentially, good mobility allows us to keep doing what we love and feel good in the process. A simple yet effective physical activity that can help boost mobility and optimize our lives is walking. As it happens, Ergon Terminaling Inc (ETI) introduced a health and wellness program that encourages this very activity.

Ergon Gets Active
ETI launched Ergon Active, a voluntary health and wellness program, in 2022 to encourage employees to be more physically active through the MoveSpring mobile app. Users who connect with the platform can participate in friendly step and walking challenges, track their fitness in real time via an Apple Watch, Fitbit or similar wearable device, and receive ongoing health information and tips. This program has since been launched to multiple companies throughout the Ergon organization, and the Ergon family has taken millions of steps collectively through walking challenges on MoveSpring. Results among the family have been amazing to witness.

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JD Wynne, an Industrial Engineer with Ergon’s Business Process Management Department has shed 30 pounds since adopting healthier habits that include increased physical activity.

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Katie Warren, Payroll Administrator with Lampton-Love, makes it a daily goal to participate in high-intensity exercises such as CrossFit and, in turn, exceeds every Ergon Active challenge.

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Gio Baldizon, a QA Laboratory Supervisor with Ergon Refining Inc., has committed himself to a healthier lifestyle and has the weight loss to prove it.

On sunny days, some teams across different departments can be seen walking outdoors. On rainy days, groups walk the halls, not allowing a little weather to rain on their parade to better health. Finding joy and community in physical activity has been a great way to become motivated and stay motivated.

For more information about Ergon Active or to learn how you can implement a similar program for your team, please email ergon.active@ergon.com. We’re happy to help.

Happy Stepping!

CEO Update: Ergon’s 69th Anniversary

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Thanks to the efforts and dedication of the Ergon family, our business continues to grow stronger. As I reflect on my first six months as President and CEO of Ergon and my 23 years with the company, I’m reminded of another important milestone. April 1 marked the 69th anniversary of Ergon. [WATCH VIDEO UPDATE FROM KRIS HERE.]

Day after day, I continue to be amazed at the intelligent design of this organization. We were built to service industries essential to manufacturing and infrastructure around the world. And we continue to be a preferred partner for our clients — putting innovation and specialized solutions that drive success at the center of our work.

Ergon’s long-term success has been grounded in relationships — both internal and external. We are as invested in providing opportunities for our employees to be the best they can be as we are in creating competitive advantages for our customers.

For 69 years now, we have led with compassion, expertise and care for the industries we serve, for our communities, and for the roughly 3,500 people around the globe who make up the Ergon family.

We abide by a set of core values that serve as a mirror we hold up to ourselves every day. They are unwavering commitments to hold true to the strong legacy established and lived out by the Lampton family. We all strive to emulate their authentic and selfless style of leadership, balancing that legacy with a goal to continue the trajectory of growth that will build our future.

Most of you are aware of the devastation that occurred as a result of the tornado that hit the Rolling Fork community which is close to our Vicksburg Refinery. The true test of our core values is how we respond when our people and our communities face adversity. The Ergon family responded in an amazing way. We’ve had teams on the ground supporting families by providing meals, meeting financial needs, cleaning up, and offering every kind of support imaginable. Thank you to our employees and to the Lampton family for living out our values and our mission.

We have so many exciting things happening at Ergon right now. I have made a commitment to be more active on LinkedIn going forward, so I can share more about The Ergon Way and the work our employees are doing. I hope you will connect with me there.

To the Ergon family — happy anniversary! Thank you for your hard work and dedication to this amazing organization.