At Bakelite, we’re proud of the diverse experiences, talents and backgrounds of our global associates. We each have our own Bakelite story, and in this series – My Bakelite Story – we highlight associates in different locations, departments and career stages, each putting their fingerprints on the organization in their own unique ways. These stories shine a light on our various roles and how they contribute to our vision and mission at Bakelite.
Below we highlight Senior Scientist Seth Evans. Learn more about Seth’s role and his career insights below.
Q: What is your role at Bakelite?
A: I’m a Senior Scientist on the R&D Team, specifically in Analytical Services. I’ve been here for six years. For the most part, my role involves analyzing and researching polymers for different compounds and analyzing how different polymers perform. My major focus is chromatography, or the separation of different analytes using varying chemical interactions, and mass spectrometry, which means filtering out specific ions and analyzing the mass particles of a chemical compound.
Q: What’s the best part about your job at Bakelite? What makes this place different from others?
A: The best part of working at Bakelite is that we are trusted to do our jobs, and that the organization is not resistant to change.
Q: In your experience, how has Bakelite supported you through career or life changes?
A: Bakelite provides a lot of learning and development opportunities. During my career, I’ve been able to branch out and really work with new instrumentation that I wouldn’t have been able to work with elsewhere; at other companies, many opportunities are very siloed by roles. But at Bakelite, if you want to grow in a specific area, the company supports that.
In terms of life changes, my wife and I had a baby this year, and Bakelite allowed me to take parental leave in two shifts. I really appreciated that flexibility.
Q: Do you have a favorite Bakelite memory?
A: My favorite memories of working at Bakelite involve my team. We really enjoy one another’s company, and in some ways it feels like a family away from home. That bond helps us have productive professional discussions about how to tackle specific analyses.
Q: How do you mentor colleagues who are newer to Bakelite?
A: I like to take a hands-on approach and make sure they have everything they need when they need it. I have an open-door policy so we can talk through anything they need help understanding. I find it’s important to set up trainings, designate time for one-on-one chats and let them know there are no bad questions.
Q: How does your work contribute to Bakelite’s mission and vision? How would you say you are putting your fingerprints on the organization?
A: I provide on-site and remote support for the analyses taking place at our plants. Providing support for these teams by answering questions and solving problems helps to keep production running smoothly. This helps our customers get the products they’re happy with in a timely manner.
Bakelite values the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our Associates. Learn more about our great people!
