Is your plant a puppy?

Posted: September 17, 2025

I recently used this as an icebreaker for a customer event. The more I think about it, the more accurate I believe it to be. Is your plant a puppy?

Consider these thoughts:

Similarly, our chemical plants must be licensed by the governments in the countries in which they operate. And there are always fees. The chemical industry has hosts of supply chain professionals ensuring that our plants get “fed.” Chemical processes are designed to a capacity. Turndown leads to inefficiencies, and running over capacity can lead to unpredictable results in operations and quality. Running at capacity, getting the proper “exercise,” puts these plants in their efficient sweet spot. Keeping them there requires condition monitoring and preventative maintenance. Each plant operates under compliance regulations to monitor and control its impact on the environment. By keeping the air and water clean, providing jobs, supporting the next generation through outreach, these plants and businesses are part of the communities in which they operate. Sounds just like my puppy…

Operating at the edge: Automation and AI

In modern chemical plants, we tend to operate at the edge, optimizing performance and efficiency to control costs and maximize production. Industrial automation came first. Digital transformation and the promise of AI are now front and center. Companies are looking to predictive analytics and machine learning models to further enhance their optimization practices. Supply chains are digitally connected to better optimize production, inventory, and distribution. Plants are monitored in real time for environmental compliance.

I could do the same for my pup. We’ve automated the supply chain to some extent—treats and eats are delivered monthly. He takes preventative medication, and we get reminders for his vet visits. We could install a doggie door or pay a walker, but, at the end of the day, he needs love and attention from his humans. Our plants could say the same.

The benefits of combining humans and AI

However, there will always be a human element. These tools are extensions of the engineers, operators, and mechanics that have come before and the building blocks of success for the next generation onboarding today. I’ve known machinists who could troubleshoot compressor issues by sound and board operators who could look at the old pens on the wall to know everything that’s happening with the process. Today, our teams will use data science, predictive algorithms, first principle models, and other technical advances to know more and respond faster than their predecessors.

Get outside, walk the line. Get to know your neighbors, vendors, and the broader community. Protect that community by ensuring safe and efficient operations. The chemical industry is vital to our success and growth.

Show your plant some love. It’s a puppy.