Makers of Methanol: Spencer Bartholomew Connects Technology and Community

When people think of methanol production, they often picture chemical engineers, control rooms or field operators. They rarely picture the experts managing the flow of critical real-time data streams or the team members who configure the specialized technology infrastructure that keeps our facility operating and communicating effectively.

Yet for Spencer Bartholomew, an IT Specialist at Koch Methanol St. James (KMSJ), these tasks are all part of a day’s work. As a featured employee in our Makers of Methanol series, Spencer represents the important, often behind-the-scenes work that keeps our site team members connected, informed, and equipped with technology that enables the team to focus on making methanol responsibly.

From local roots to a career at Koch Methanol

Spencer is no stranger to the area. He grew up in Vacherie, just one town over from the St. James facility, and graduated from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Before joining Koch, he built his career in the non-profit and healthcare sectors.

When changing careers, Spencer found himself looking for a new challenge. He wanted to step away from the traditional office space and into the dynamic world of a facility environment. He found that opportunity at KMSJ nearly four years ago.

For Spencer, the transition offered exactly the variety he was seeking.

“It was a good opportunity to learn, try new things and work with new technologies,” said Spencer. “I like the variety of office time and being out in the facility. I appreciate getting out and tackling the hands-on work we do to support the site.”

How wireless technology improves facility efficiency

One of the projects Spencer is most proud of involved bringing wireless internet to the facility. When he started in 2021, the facility lacked Wi-Fi coverage in the operating areas. This meant operators had to write down data on paper in the field and walk back to a desktop computer to log it.

Spencer helped implement a site-wide wireless network that now allows the team to use tablets throughout the facility. This upgrade improved efficiency and accuracy, eliminating the extra steps that often slowed down the day. Because of this seamless connectivity, operators can make real-time decisions in the field, directly supporting the safe and efficient production of methanol.

“Koch Methanol has deployed a lot of new technology and values our IT team’s opinion on where improvements and efficiencies can be made,” explained Spencer. “It’s great to be a part of the direction the company is going.”

Community stewardship in St. James Parish

His impact extends well beyond the facility gates. Spencer speaks highly of the culture of togetherness at Koch Methanol, which includes a strong commitment to the local area. A standout moment for him was volunteering at the annual driver’s license restoration clinic, hosted by Koch Methanol and area businesses. The event helped community members resolve license issues, and Spencer was responsible for setting up the specialized equipment needed for a successful event.

Seeing the immediate relief on the faces of attendees was a meaningful experience that highlighted the company’s dedication to being a good steward of the St. James community.

“It is rewarding to be part of a company that makes such a vital product and is also dedicated to the community,” Spencer said.

Career advice for IT professionals in manufacturing

As he looks to the future, Spencer is excited about further integrating technology with operations. He sees a path forward in which IT and production teams work even more closely to drive innovation.

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Spencer offers practical advice: master the basics.

“Learn as much as you can on the help desk. The way you tackle small problems is the same way you will approach the complex challenges later in your career,” Spencer advised.

He also stresses the value of documentation and communication, advising future IT professionals to learn how to translate IT terminology into plain language that anyone can understand.

“Be diligent and don’t use only IT language. Make sure you are able to talk to anybody about the work,” Spencer advised. “I think that is the key, being able to take something very detailed and make it very simple.”

Technical expertise with a community focus

From improving facility operations to supporting local events, Spencer applies his skills where they matter most. His story is a testament to how Koch Methanol employees can grow their careers while making a distinct difference in the place they call home.