Online Chemical Operator Program: A Case Study

Client: Evonik-Degussa Carbon Engineered Products Division

"Washington State has been very responsive not only to the company needs, but to the … students’ needs."

— Donnie Loubiere
Plant Manager
Evonik-Degussa Engineering Carbons
Belpre, OH

In 2006, representatives from the WSCC Workforce Development (WFD) office and the Industrial Technology academic staff met with Donnie Loubiere, plant manager at Evonik-Degussa’s Engineered Carbon plant in Belpre, Ohio, to discuss a proposed Chemical Operator Program. The conversation focused on the value of upgrading employees’ technical and critical thinking skills in order to deal with new, state-of-the-art equipment and processing methods being implemented at the plant. The need for improved decision-making and communication skills was also discussed.

Immediate Enthusiasm

Positive response to the meeting prompted a second presentation to Evonik-Degussa’s corporate human resources, systems, and cost management personnel, who enthusiastically approved the program. WFD began presenting the merits of the training program to the entire Belpre plant management team, which instituted an employee incentive program that rewarded chemical operators for participating in the program.

Local Success

The initial Chemical Operator course (INDT 101) focused on basic mechanical systems, fundamental safety, health and environmental issues, basic math and science, and, of course, instruction in how to use online training effectively. Before long, Evonik-Degussa chemical operators mastered the art of Internet-based learning and began communicating easily and effectively with fellow students and WFD faculty.

Widespread Enthusiasm

Soon, chemical operators at Evonik-Degussa facilities in Texas and Louisiana were participating in and benefiting from the program, as well. The online delivery process enabled operators at these distant locations to access the same content offered at the Belpre facility.

Today, scores of chemical operators, employed by different companies in various regions of the country have improved their knowledge and skills through participation in WFD’s Online Chemical Operator program. Click here to read some of their enthusiastic comments.

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If you have specific questions, contact:

Sandra West
Director of Technical Sales & Training Development
WSCC Workforce Development
740-568-1953