Ergon Supports a Circular Economy

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Ergon President & CEO has contributed a LinkedIn article for Earth Day, highlighting Ergon’s efforts to support a circular economy and ensure a more sustainable future. Read the featured article below, and learn about Ergon’s efforts to continue Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles.

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By focusing on our part in the circular economy, Ergon is redefining waste as opportunity and stretching the idea of “end use” by constantly seeking to get the most value out of our products and raw materials.

At Ergon, our vision is to be the world’s preferred partner for innovative and specialized solutions that drive customer success. This vision is more important than ever as our customers face increased demand for solutions that deliver a more sustainable future.

In observance of Earth Month, I want to highlight Ergon’s commitment to Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles. I continue to be amazed at our team’s dedication to building a more sustainable future for generations to come, including our efforts toward creating circular economies. This concept ensures that our products are constantly being recycled and reused. For instance, used oil (from post-consumer use) can be re-refined and then used in lubricants. At the end of their use, the lubricants can again be sent for re-refining. This continual cycle reduces waste and other negative impacts on the environment and communities in which we serve.

Specialty Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Companies within our Energy & Specialty Solutions (ESS) business segment are committed to providing renewable and recycled materials to meet industry standards and customer needs amid a growing push for sustainable products.

To further our commitment to supporting a circular economy, Ergon’s Process Oils Inc. and Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI), our naphthenic refinery in Vicksburg, Mississippi, have obtained International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS. Ergon International is currently in the process of obtaining ISCC PLUS certification as well.

ISCC is globally recognized in the certification of sustainable feedstocks, acknowledging that an entire supply chain meets stringent sustainability requirements. For a business to obtain certification, companies must show traceability of ISCC-certified materials from procurement through their production and/or distribution along the supply chain. Suppliers and customers must also be ISCC certified, completing the circular economy.

Paving the Way
Through our Pavement & Coating Resources (PCR) business segment, Ergon provides solutions to enhance the performance of one of the most recycled materials — asphalt. Our preservation and maintenance product offerings include binders for various recycled asphalt treatments. These treatments reduce the amount of asphalt sent to landfills — thus contributing to the circular economy.

Through PCR’s laboratories and other partnerships, Ergon continues to research and develop technologies that make roads last longer and allow for a reduction in energy and emissions related to road construction. Additionally, due to the versatility of asphalt, our team is currently developing innovative ways to expand its use in other applications. Recently, representatives from PCR’s Crafco, Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions (Ergon A&E) and our state-of-the-art laboratory, Paragon Technical Services, collaborated with the Ergon ESS company, Resinall Corp, to develop a product that allows asphalt roofing shingles to be recycled as opposed to being sent to landfills in the future.

PCR companies are also utilizing recycled tires as part of our roadway solutions, including Ergon A&E’s Hybrid Ground Tire Rubber Asphalt Mix and Crafco’s patented pavement sealant. Such solutions provide an alternative for end-of-life tires that keeps them from being sent to landfills as well.

Logistics of the Circular Economy
Storage and transportation are key components of the circular economy because products must make it to their final destinations to have an impact. Ergon’s strategic logistics network within our Integrated Services & Logistics segment ensures products are stored in facilities and terminals that meet regulations for quality control and are transported under rigorous standards in a timely manner. These measures are how we maintain the quality of the products, ensure safe handling from storage to transport, and help reduce emissions and other environmental impacts associated with supply chain management.

Coming Together
Ergon’s focus on a circular economy signifies a comprehensive approach to addressing both environmental and economic challenges. Through conserving natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing landfill usage, we aim for a cleaner future to protect our communities. Additionally, Ergon continues to monitor energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, even committing to decrease carbon emissions by 25% by 2026 at ERI.

I am so proud of the Ergon family’s efforts in creating sustainable solutions. I am also incredibly thankful for our suppliers, partners and customers for their collaborative efforts in helping to foster a circular economy.

Together, let’s continue to make a meaningful difference for our planet every day.

Ergon Construction Group: Growth Rooted in Relationships

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The Ergon family of companies is committed to providing innovative and specialized solutions that drive customer success. In keeping with the organization-wide goal to be the world’s premier partner for progress, learn how Ergon Construction Group’s commitment to building relationships has led to tremendous growth opportunities, allowing them to expand into more markets with additional service offerings to meet evolving customer needs.

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Recent expansion of Ergon Construction Group Inc., comprised of Alliant Construction (Alliant) and ISO Services, is rooted in customer relationships. “We are trying to build relationships more than we’re trying to build one specific project,” said Nathan Witt, President of Ergon Construction Group. “With everyone we work for, every relationship we establish, whether it’s a building owner or an architect on Alliant’s side, or an industrial plant on ISO Services’ side, our goal is to be a long-term partner in their success.”

Evolving to Meet Customer Needs

When determining the next steps for growth, Ergon Construction Group simply listens to the customers. Recognizing the importance of craft service accessibility, ISO Services (previously ISO Panels) expanded their scaffolding capabilities in 2018. Then, in 2020, Ergon Maintenance Services and ISO Panels merged into ISO Services, integrating industrial services and offering more comprehensive solutions. Additionally, in the same year, the division added leaders dedicated to expanding their coating services. “Customers frequently asked, ‘Do you offer this?’ And in the industrial world, plants and customers want fewer contractors, so we eventually decided to add that service to our offerings,” said Witt. This strategic decision underscores the company’s commitment to actively listening and responding to market demands. According to Chad Watts, VP & General Manager of ISO Services, “The best way to tell what service a new customer needs is to listen to them and then take every opportunity to show what we can do.”

Similarly, Alliant has diversified their service offerings, transitioning from their traditional focus on commercial projects to embracing opportunities in schools, warehouses and government-funded projects. “We want to make sure we have every tool in our toolbox that our customers need,” said Andy Measells, VP & General Manager of Alliant. As a result, Alliant has recently established a new regional office in Memphis, further extending their reach into the Mississippi, Tennessee and Arkansas markets.

Employees Leading the Growth

With most of the employees directly engaging with customers, Ergon Construction Group aims to Win With People through their solid relationships and trust built on the construction site. Measells emphasized that they made a firm decision early on when starting Alliant — to lead with integrity and honesty, a principle deeply ingrained in the values of the Ergon and Lampton family. This dedication to being transparent and reliable has since generated an abundance of repeat customers. “Our clients know they can trust what we tell them,” Measells said. “We’re not only going to do a good job, but we’re also going to behave professionally while at those places.” This trust extends to the caliber of skilled individuals representing the company. From the Craftsmen to the General Managers, each employee embodies Ergon’s core value of Respectful Relationships while showcasing their expertise. Watts refers to their skills as “artwork,” a testament to their meticulous workmanship and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, while highlighting their comprehensive understanding of what it means to own, operate and maintain industrial plants and commercial buildings, Witt emphasizes the importance of having an “owner’s mindset” — a perspective that sets them apart from competitors. Unlike competitors who may prioritize a quick turnover, Ergon Construction Group remains steadfast in a commitment to lasting quality and building it right the first time, every time.

Navigating Future Growth

Looking ahead, future growth strategies for Ergon Construction Group focus on organic growth, including geographic and market expansions. Particularly within Alliant, the company is anticipating project expansion into federal and medical markets, whereas the ISO Services division aims to synchronize service capabilities across all their locations, including their latest location in Ennis, Texas. With a workforce doubling in recent years, the company recognizes customers’ demand for expertise in project management, quality control and safety. “You’ve got to be a certain size business to have this type of talent, so we’re forced to grow. We must grow,” said Watts. Due to the people-centric nature of the construction industry, prioritizing people is a major component of the company’s growth objectives. Moving forward, Ergon Construction Group remains committed to striking the right balance between growth and maintaining the integrity and values of their workforce — all while staying focused on being the ultimate service provider for customers. By doing so, Ergon Construction Group is keeping the collective mission of the Ergon family of companies, which is to meet needs, support families and serve customers, at the forefront of their journey toward Purposeful Growth.

Ergon to Increase Naphthenic Prices in North America

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FLOWOOD, Miss. — Ergon has announced an increase in pricing of naphthenic oils in the North American market effective Friday, April 19, 2024.

–   HyVolt Dielectric Fluids and 60 viscosity will increase by $0.35 per gallon
–   HyGold Base Oils and HyPrene Process Oils will increase by $0.30 per gallon

About Ergon
Ergon is a group of privately held companies that operate under four primary business segments: Energy & Specialty Solutions, Pavement & Coating Resources, Integrated Services & Logistics, and Exploration & Production.

Contact Information
Kathy Potts Vice President – Marketing Communications
601-933-3000
kathy.potts@ergon.com
ergon.com |  ergonspecialtyoils.com

Celebrating Women Shaping History at Ergon

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In honor of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting a few of many remarkable women in the Ergon family. Their dedication, passion and contributions serve as a testament to the invaluable role of women in leadership positions within our company.

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Jana Branham

As the Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Ergon Inc., Jana Branham is responsible for all Information Technology (IT) functions throughout the organization and our various business segments. This includes ensuring seamless business operations through effective management of applications, desktops and networks within a global setting.

Before joining Ergon in January 2017, she was a CIO for a company in Memphis, Tennessee. When Branham was recruited for her current position, she found it to be a perfect match due to her extensive expertise acquired over two decades. Branham brings a natural talent for problem-solving, leveraging her technological knowledge to address business challenges. Furthermore, she channels her leadership role into transferring her knowledge and passion to her IT Team.

Branham emphasizes the importance of confidence-building and skill development through volunteering for new assignments and seeking mentorship. According to Branham, through these experiences, “You will develop new skills that you can add to your imaginary tool bag — which in return will allow you to grow as a leader and be seen as someone who is willing and able to take on new assignments.” Moreover, she was involved in the Society for Information Management for sixteen years, serving in various leadership roles such as Community Outreach and Membership Co-Chair. As part of the society, she organized workshops and lectures to promote growth within the IT community. In addition to her professional endeavors, Branham remains involved in community initiatives, currently leading Ergon’s annual Toys for Tots Toy Drive held every November.

Branham obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on management from Austin Peay State University. Additionally, she holds certifications in Communication Strategies for Senior Leadership from Vanderbilt University and in Leadership from Rhodes College.

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Shelly Cowley

Shelly Cowley serves as the Vice President — Technical Operations for Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions (Ergon A&E), where she oversees the Technical Operations Group, regional laboratories and technical activities.

Before joining the Ergon family, Cowley held positions at Koch Materials Company and SemMaterials. In 2009, she transitioned to Ergon A&E as the Technical Director of Technical Operations. Subsequently, she moved to Paragon Technical Services, Ergon’s state-of-the-art laboratory, as the Technical Director of Asphalt Emulsions before assuming her current role as Ergon A&E’s Vice President — Technical Operations in January 2024.

As Vice President, Cowley expresses her love for her team members, who make her job enjoyable. Furthermore, she embraces the challenges inherent on the technical side of the business. Although not initially aiming for a leadership role, Cowley discovered her natural inclination toward bringing together the right people and resources to overcome challenges and provide solutions. She credits her growth as a leader to the guidance of great mentors and the support of Ergon management.

Offering advice to other women interested in leadership roles, Cowley says, “Leadership is not defined by your job title or how many people you manage. Leadership is demonstrated by your actions and words regardless of your role.” Additionally, she encourages others to remain confident in their worth and to seek out mentors who can help in their leadership development.

Cowley holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from the University of North Texas.

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Christine Osborne

Christine Osborne is Vice President – Sales & Marketing for ErgonArmor, a division of Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions. In this role, she oversees sales and marketing initiatives for adhesives, sealants, coatings, linings, concretes, pastes and putties used across various applications, such as abrasion and corrosion protection, within industrial and commercial markets.

Osborne joined the Ergon family in December 2011. Since then, she has held positions as the Technical Marketing Manager of Corrosion Engineering and National Sales Manager of Corrosion Engineering for ErgonArmor.

When asked about her favorite aspect of her job, she readily expresses her fondness for problem-solving, a skill she attributes to her engineering background complemented by her interest in psychology. “What can I say? I’m trained in engineering with a psychology hobby,” said Osborne.

Osborne attributes her experience in a university Co-Op Program as pivotal in shaping her career path, emphasizing the mentorship and learning opportunities it provided. Under the guidance of a respected and highly qualified female engineer, she gained invaluable exposure to industrial corrosion, which set the course for her career.

To other women aspiring leadership roles, Osborne says, “Keep track of your successes. Seek opportunities to expand your role and influence. Step up.” She also underscores the importance of understanding human behavior as a critical aspect of effective leadership.

Osborne earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with honors (Cum Laude) along with a co-op certificate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

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Bonnie Chapman

Bonnie has served as the Vice President – Product Stewardship at Ergon Inc. since July 2019. In this role, she leads the Product Stewardship Team, providing expertise and guidance across all Ergon companies on evolving regulatory standards related to Ergon’s products. Additionally, she facilitates corporate sustainability initiatives by helping Ergon prepare to meet upcoming sustainability requirements, collaborating to establish One Ergon sustainability goals and promoting dialogue and transparency with individual Ergon business units.

Before joining the Ergon Family, Bonnie and her family lived in Houston, Texas. However, with two young children and missing extended family in Mississippi, she applied for and was offered the position of Business Coordinator within Ergon’s Refining & Marketing business segment (now Energy & Specialty Solutions) in 2011. She served as Director of Planning and Economics before transitioning to her current role with the Corporate Product Stewardship Department.

Bonnie finds fulfillment in passing down the lessons she has learned throughout her career, helping to develop future leaders at Ergon. She is also passionate about her work with aspiring engineers through her university involvement, encouraging them to persevere through the difficult times and to celebrate their successes.

Bonnie offers guidance to women pursuing leadership positions, drawing inspiration from her father’s “short line theory,” which encourages standing out in careers through taking on tasks others may avoid or following unconventional paths. Additionally, Bonnie emphasizes, “Recognize you have value and your contributions make your team better. Always give credit to those who deserve it and say thank you to the people who help you along the way. Give others grace.”

Bonnie earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Mississippi State University and a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University.

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Daniela Castano

Daniela Castano, Vice President of Sales — Latin America for Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI), oversees sales and operations within our Energy & Specialty Solutions business segment for the Latin America region.

Before joining ERI, Castano was the Sales and Logistics Director at C.I. Importex S.A., an exclusive distributor of Ergon products in Colombia. Her tenure there equipped her with extensive knowledge of Ergon products, paving the way for her seamless transition to ERI in June 2019 as the Sales Manager for Mexico and Brazil.

Passionate about discovering and capitalizing on business opportunities, Castano thrives on turning visions into reality alongside her team. Throughout her career, she has actively sought out leadership positions that empower her to support teams and drive impactful change. She attributes much of her success to the guidance and investment from her mentors, emphasizing the importance of employer support in professional growth.

Castano encourages aspiring women leaders to lead by example while remaining authentic and trusting their judgement. “Remember that if you were invited to the meeting room, you deserve to be there, and you have the responsibility to contribute to the conversation,” says Castano. Additionally, she advocates for maintaining focus on overarching goals, fostering teamwork and acknowledging the contributions of those who helped you succeed.

Castano earned her bachelor’s degree in economics and business administration from Boston University, her finance specialization from Universidad de Los Andes and Executive Leadership Program certification from Inalde Business School.

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Kathy Potts

Kathy Potts serves as Vice President – Marketing Communications for Ergon Inc. In this role, she oversees all aspects of the company’s marketing and communications strategies. This includes leading a team of professionals in developing and executing initiatives that effectively promote Ergon’s business objectives and solidify our brand identity and culture.

With over three decades of marketing communications experience, Potts began her career journey at the Ramey Agency, where she excelled as an Account Director. During her tenure, she built brands for a variety of clients — from Viking Range to the State of Mississippi. This position equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of how to cultivate relationships and drive long-term growth among business leaders.

Following this role, Potts joined the Ergon Family in 2018 as the Director of Marketing Communications and was later promoted to Vice President. One aspect of her role that Potts finds particularly rewarding is fostering a dynamic and creative work environment where no two days are the same.

To women interested in leadership positions, Potts says, “Take every opportunity to learn from other women who have navigated the path before you.” Moreover, Potts encourages people to trust their instincts and to step out of their comfort zones while also cultivating respectful relationships among coworkers.

Potts holds a bachelor’s degree in business and journalism from the University of Mississippi and has pursued a master’s education in integrated marketing communications at West Virginia University.

Ergon Companies Participate in We Work the Waterways Event for Students

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On February 15, 2024, representatives from Ergon companies, Magnolia Marine Transport (MMT) Company and Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply (EMIS), participated in the We Work the Waterways event in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This event is hosted annually by the Inland Rivers, Ports & Terminals Inc. Association, with Ergon companies serving as sponsors and event participants for over a decade.

We Work the Waterways is committed to promoting, encouraging, educating and marketing maritime/river industry careers.

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“The purpose of the We Work the Waterways event in Vicksburg is two-fold,” said Syd Johnston, MMT Personnel Manager. “Careers throughout the river system, marine careers, are hidden. So this event highlights various career paths students can take — from deckhands, engineers, captains and welders to accountants and other positions you may not associate with the river. Also, students get to see the wealth of career opportunities right here in Vicksburg. For local students, it shows you can find success on the home front.”

During this one-day event, students from local high schools in Vicksburg and neighboring parishes in Louisiana are invited to hear about careers in the industry. They meet at Hinds Community College for a series of presentations and discussions with local marine company employers. Johnston and other MMT representatives typically present general information about the importance of maritime careers and potential earnings in roles such as a deckhand, engineer and pilot/captain. “That’s usually the highlight of the presentation,” said Johnston.

While at Hinds, the students learn how products are moved throughout the river transportation system and the system’s role in alleviating pressure from the interstate system and railways. Pablo Diaz, Executive Director of the Port Commission, also presents to the students before they are taken to tour various sites throughout Vicksburg, including EMIS, Big River Shipbuilders and the Army Corps of Engineers location.

In addition to giving students a glimpse into alternative careers paths, Ergon companies are happy to participate in this event as part of our efforts to help build and promote the Vicksburg community we have been a part of for over 45 years.

“We’re proud to be part of the Vicksburg community and want to give students opportunities to see all that Vicksburg has to offer,” said Syd. “We want to encourage them to consider putting down professional roots in the city, helping Vicksburg thrive for generations to come.” That’s the Ergon Way — Doing Right in the communities we serve.

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If you are interested in our careers on the waterways in Vicksburg, or any openings with the Ergon family of companies, visit ergoncareers.com.

Ergon Companies Recognized by EcoVadis for Sustainability Excellence

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Through Ergon’s commitment to Doing Right, we strive to make a positive impact by actively reducing emissions, environmental impacts and energy usage. As a result of our efforts, two of Ergon’s Energy & Specialty Solutions companies, Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI) and Resinall Corp (Resinall), have earned recognition for their sustainability initiatives in 2023 by EcoVadis.

EcoVadis is a global platform that provides sustainability ratings while also supporting businesses in implementing practices that align with environmental, social and governance responsibilities. The evaluation performed by EcoVadis covers four key categories: environmental impact, labor and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. Companies are then assigned scores on a scale of 0 to 100 and recognized by medals, including bronze, silver, gold or platinum.

Building on our commitment to continuous improvement, ERI experienced significant progress by transitioning from a bronze medal in 2022 to achieving a silver medal in the 2023 evaluation. Additionally, Resinall was awarded a bronze medal for the first time since participating in the EcoVadis assessment.

While our goal is to continually enhance our ratings and feedback, the EcoVadis ratings for 2023 stand as a testament to Ergon’s dedication to Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles.

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Learn more about how Ergon is Doing Right at ergon.com/sustainability.

Paragon Technical Services Recognized for Best Lab, Instrument and Operator

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Part of Ergon’s commitment to Doing Right is ensuring quality products and materials from our state-of-the-art laboratory, Paragon Technical Services (Paragon). Recently, Paragon received designations for Best Lab, Best Operator and Best Instrument as part of an International Quality Control Program (QCP). Learn why this matters below.

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Paragon Technical Services is Ergon’s premier laboratory, dedicated to providing quality control and assurance for materials, including asphalt, emulsions and coatings. Not only does Paragon support Ergon, but the team also works to ensure the integrity of third-party materials.

Paragon’s Asphalt Binder Group participates in 12 out of 14 tests within the International QCP, developed by a major global partner of Ergon. Designated samples are sent from the Control Center to various participating laboratories around the world for testing over a certain period. The continued sampling is a quality control measure benefiting both the program developer and participants.

For Paragon, continuous testing of the same material helps ensure the integrity of instruments and processes on a consistent basis. “Best case, we can show consistency in the quality of our operations. And if any issues should occur, we are able to tell quickly if they are on the instrument, calibration or operator end, and we can troubleshoot in a timely manner,” said Dr. Codrin Daranga, Technical Director – Asphalt Binders for Paragon.

While Paragon has participated in this QCP since 2018, the following are a few of the more recent recognitions the Paragon Team has received for their exceptional quality work.

  • 2022

    • Best Instrument in 2 of 12 tests
    • Best Operator (BBR Stiffness Test) – Angela Crosby
    • Best Lab in 5 of 12 tests – Paragon Asphalt Binder Lab, led by Dwayne “The Pebble” Johnson

According to Dr. Daranga, to qualify for Best Lab in this QCP, “You have to have a good instrument and good operators.” Paragon utilized 21 instruments with four Operators for 12 tests within the program and excelled to earn the Best Lab distinction five times out of 12 possible.

In addition to participating in this QCP, Paragon also participates in the AASHTO re:source proficiency sample program, in which samples are tested every 6 months. Any labs issuing certificates of analysis for materials to agencies within the roadway construction industry must participate in this program for accreditation. Paragon consistently meets the proficiency sample program requirements, thanks to their meticulous attention to detail and constant focus on quality.

“As a lab, our mission is to be the best we can be among the best labs in the world,” said Dr. Daranga. But this mission is not self-serving. To be the best lab means to be The Resource in the roadway construction industry, providing the best quality products and services to help agencies improve infrastructure. “That’s our ultimate goal,” said Dr. Daranga.

Being recognized as the best among the best is a testament to Ergon/Paragon’s commitment to Doing Right with our products as well as our goal of being our customers’ premier partner in progress.

Ergon’s 2023 Doing Right Report

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Ergon’s 2023 Doing Right Report is now available at ergon.com/sustainability. We began producing these reports to celebrate the many ways Ergon is committed to Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles.

Doing Right is not a new concept for Ergon. It is foundational to who we have always been and who we will always be. We are excited to build on an already incredibly strong foundation. Since our first report, we have enhanced our environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts throughout the organization, and we are happy to share these updates with you.

The 2023 report includes in-depth stories highlighting our commitment to Doing Right, including our focus on innovative products, waste minimization, operational excellence objectives and the Purposeful Growth of our family of employees.

Feel free to share with others so they can see how we are Doing Right to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

A Captain’s Career — Meet Magnolia Marine Transport’s David Hays

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Captain David Hays is retiring from Ergon’s Magnolia Marine Transport Company (MMT) after over 45 years of service. Read about his journey from Green Deckhand to retired Captain.

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“My dad paid $90 for me to go to Deckhand school in Greenville, Mississippi. After I finished, MMT called me and offered me a job on a petroleum barge,” said Captain David Hays.

Captain Hays has been on the water almost his entire life, but his journey with MMT began on February 27, 1978, along the Arkansas River with a busted suitcase.

“The first boat I stepped on was at Lock No. 4 on the Arkansas River. I threw my suitcase on the boat, and it busted wide open,” Hays said, foreshadowing the difficulties he would face while adjusting to life as a 19-year-old Deckhand.

“After my first stint on the water, I called my dad and told him it wasn’t for me, and he said, ‘You can handle it,’” said Hays. His father’s words were motivation enough for him to continue tow boating, which turned out to be a lucrative career that has taken him far, figuratively and literally speaking. “I’ve been just about everywhere you can take a towboat with Magnolia Marine,” said Hays.

By 1992, Hays had advanced to the position of Captain, steering the M/V Dorothy Lee. “As Captain, I was responsible for everything, including company equipment, crew welfare and safety, and boat and tow safety for 24 hours a day, six hours on, six hours off,” he said.

Hays held the position of Captain for 31 years and is a testament to MMT’s commitment to purposeful employee growth. Those who want to advance in their careers at MMT are put on a clear path from Green Deckhand to Captain/Pilot.

When asked about his experience with MMT, Hays responded, “I think Magnolia Marine is an excellent company. They will do anything to make your job better, easier and safer. They have taken care of me over the years.”

Now, 45 years later, Hays is sailing into a well-deserved retirement. He made his final voyage recently and exited the M/V Mari Lampton for the last time as Captain in Cairo, Illinois. We’re proud to have been a part of this chapter in Hays’s life and wish him well.

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Reflecting on a Career Well Spent

According to Hays, his favorite river to travel is either the Ohio or Tennessee River because of the calmer atmosphere of the journey and the beautiful views of nature. His favorite day on the water was steak day each Saturday.

When asked what advice he would give to Green Deckhands aspiring to be a Captain one day, Hays said, “If you’re having trouble adjusting, hang in there, because things change and you’ll get new opportunities.”

Hays’s legacy lives strong in the lives of those he impacted during his tenure as Captain for over three decades. He is looking forward to a relaxing retirement in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

If you are interested in a career with MMT, visit magnoliamarine.com/careers/.

Message from Ergon CEO Kris Patrick

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As we head into the new year, I’d like to reflect on Ergon’s work as we continue to lead with compassion, expertise and care for our employees around the world, the industries we serve and the communities we support:

  • We continue to develop, produce and provide long-lasting, high-value solutions for our customers, improving the performance of products people around the world use every day.
  • Our asphalt solutions continue to strengthen and extend the life of North American roadways.
  • Our logistics companies continue to be essential to the manufacturing supply chain.

I’m looking forward to leading this company into 2024 as we continue our work toward being the world’s preferred partner for innovative and specialized solutions that drive our customers’ success.

Thank you, to the Ergon family for another year of success, to our clients for their invaluable trust in us, and to our communities for being an inspiration to us. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year!