«Machines and processes are easy; people are the challenge» These are the few words I remember the most from my job interview in Martinsburg with both the Maintenance and the Plant Manager in the Spring of 2007. This statement has been resonating in my head ever since: not because I didn’t realize it before, but because it was never put in such simple terms before: It is correct; our industry is all about people.

During the past 38+ years of working, I’ve worked in 19 plants in 6 different countries. It has been proven repeatedly: it does not matter how sophisticated or how automated a cement plant may be, Its personnel talent, experience, and commitment that has always made the difference between success and failure.

No matter the culture or religion, no matter the gender or the language spoken, no matter the skin color or the countries people live in, it seems to work the same way everywhere I went. Whenever a team of people is willing to work together and are driven to achieve the same goal, success has always followed.

The other lesson I learned working abroad all these years is the unbelievable creativity that comes with mixing different cultures. People coming from different locations, origins, and backgrounds don’t get stuck easily in their own way because they have so many different paths to choose from. In fact, even though diversity may appear to create added difficulties when it comes to reaching a consensus on any issue (language barrier, past practices, or else.), the truth is it is always an asset that seems to lead invariably to more significant outcomes.

Diversity is one of the many assets Argos has to offer. Argos, Martinsburg specifically, fosters this concept with its Plant Management Team, including women and men from 10 different nationalities (Sry Lanka, Philippines, France, Egypt, Pakistan, Colombia, Venezuela, Ethiopia, UK, and the USA) Talk about Diversity: what a «Melting Pot»!

This has always been fascinating to me! These women and men come from so many different places but are working toward the same goal, bringing the plant to its full potential. I always enjoyed witnessing these sidebar conversations mainly in English, sometimes Arabic or Spanish (even in French ). The look of pride and satisfaction on the team members’ faces anytime issues get collectively resolved is priceless during these discussions. Instances like this helped me realize that the Martinsburg Management Team, from the front line supervisor to the manager, was one of the most talented teams I have had the privilege to work beside. All thanks to the diversity we share.

No matter how tumultuous and rough the ride may have been at times, interacting with such an eclectic group of talented people has been one of the most enriching experiences of my career, and I must admit it, I enjoy it!