What does an instrumentation and electrical technician do?
Because methanol production involves specialized materials and high temperatures, reliable automated control systems are a top priority. Patrick and his team handle daily preventative maintenance and as-needed repairs to keep the facility online and prevent system trips.
Equipped with specialized hand tools, voltage meters and NFPA 70E electrical safety training, Patrick troubleshoots transmitters and motors to quickly resolve issues before they escalate.
“We use our hands a lot, so we have drills, screwdrivers and pliers, and we get a lot of good tools provided to us to help us out,” Patrick noted. Depending on the day, his team might handle routine preventative maintenance or pivot to solve a high-priority problem for the operations team. “We get a lot of variety, which is good. It keeps it interesting.”
Building a collaborative maintenance team in St. James
Patrick credits his professional growth to Koch’s culture of continuous learning. He has embraced the company’s Principle Based Management Philosophy while also expanding his technical skills, including transitioning from traditional paper-based tracking to digital work order systems.
What he loves most about his role is the culture of teamwork. When a challenge arises, the entire team works together to find a solution.
“The best thing about our team is we get along and work together,” Patrick shared. “If equipment goes down, everybody has each other’s back. That is one of the things I love most about this place.”
He also values the informal mentorship among the crew.
“My motto is somebody out there always knows something more than you do,” Patrick explained. “You won’t find the answer unless you ask them, and they will always help you out.”
Giving back to the St. James Parish community
Living just minutes away means Patrick enjoys a short commute and more time with his family. He also stays busy with Rome’s Tomatoes, his family’s greenhouse business in Convent that has operated for over 70 years.
He brings that agricultural passion to his volunteer work with the KMSJ community team, specifically at the Fast Food Farm event, which teaches local students how food grows through hands-on activities.
“I enjoy watching the kids who are eager to learn about farming and growing things, especially with my background,” Patrick said. “Kids aren’t going to know unless you educate them, and that is a great way to give back to the community.”
Patrick also brings a friendly rivalry to the annual Festival of the Bonfires gumbo cookoff. He cooks alongside his dad and uncle, representing their family business, Rome’s Tomatoes. While his family usually takes home the prize, Patrick always comes prepared. He wears his Koch shirt hidden underneath, jokingly ready to switch sides and celebrate with his coworkers if they pull off a win.
Career advice for future technicians
For those considering a career in the field, Patrick points to the value of hands-on learning and company programs like internships.
“Koch gives everybody an opportunity to grow, like with the internship program,” Patrick said. “I really respect that. Giving people that chance to advance is amazing because learning with your eyes and hands is one of the best ways to learn.”
