John Brenon - Occidental Chemical Corporation
October Member Spotlight – John Brenon (Occidental Chemical Corporation)
CI: Tell us a little about yourself, and what you do.
I have spent all 30 years of my career in OxyChem Manufacturing. I began my career in 1992 in Ingleside, TX as a Project Engineer. I progressed through various roles in Ingleside including Process Supervisor, Production Superintendent, and Production Manager. My first Plant Manager role was at their Convent, LA site in 2006. I then relocated to Wichita, KS in 2008 at the Plant Manager, and then again to Houston in 2010 as the Assistant Plant Manager of the VCM sites. I have been in Dallas since 2010. Most of that time has been as Director of Manufacturing until my current role as of October 2020. I have had different levels of responsibilities in major projects/expansions across C/A, VCM, and ethylene. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Texas Tech University with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and hold an MBA from Texas A&M Corpus Christi.
CI: When did you first become involved at CI? What activities have you been involved in at CI?
I served on the Chlorine Institute’s Board of Directors and Executive Committees from 2010 to 2022, and as the Chairman from 2014-2016. I also served multiple terms on the International Committee, the Membership Committee, and a few terms as Vice Chair. Finally, I’ve been a Board representative on the HESS Issue Team for most of my tenure on the Board.
CI: What is something interesting about you that few would know or guess?
I’m an avid sports fan, especially of the Cowboys. I enjoy competing in anything where you keep score (golf, billiards, board games, dominos, etc.), but not necessarily good at any of them. Few would guess that I like to occasionally play a good practical joke.
CI: Tell us about your favorite CI memory or success story.
I feel proud to have participated in the development of the current Issue Team structure, as well as the current Mission and long-term goals. I also started a “tradition” of the Chair attending the training at the very important Mississippi Fire Academy where our CHLOREP Team Members can enhance their skills. There are far too many great memories to share from the social times at CI meetings; but a few ballgames, golf outings, social hours, and the WWII Museum reception top the list.
CI: What do you value most from your CI membership?
I value the technical expertise that exists within all the member companies. I appreciate how the CI has remained a technical organization built upon member sweat equity. But I mostly value the relationships that have developed through the years with the CI staff and the other member companies. I very much appreciate the many suppliers that support our industry and bring their technical expertise and friendships to the table.
CI: What advice do you have for early career professionals in the chlor-alkali industry?
Find an avenue to participate. You don’t need to learn all the details of the pamphlets, but you should learn how to navigate through them to find answers when you need them. Take advantage of the networking opportunities and relationship building. If the technical career path interests you, become the expert in something that others will seek out.
Do you know an actively engaged CI member who would make a great Member Spotlight? Send their name and company to Cindy Kuranchie at Cindy@CL2.com.