LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex Holds Inaugural ‘Science Extravaganza’

Staff advances STEM-related activities and demonstrations for students

BAY CITY, Texas – Nov 6, 2018 – The Matagorda Complex of LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB), one of the largest plastics, chemicals and refining companies in the world, opened a window into the possibilities of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers for nearly 200 high schoolers from Bay City, Palacios, Tidehaven and Van Vleck school districts. Plant employees organized presentations, engineering demonstrations and hands-on science activities to engage and educate students.

“The extravaganza is an excellent way for us to show the real-life application of STEM and how it impacts the world around us,” said Tony Wood, site manager of LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex. “Our staff was excited for the opportunity to inspire young minds right here in our community to take a greater interest in STEM.”

Students spent the day learning through interactive displays highlighting career opportunities within each of the plant’s departments and tours of the plant’s central control room, maintenance shop and laboratory. Additionally, the plant’s engineering and health, safety and environment teams created interactive stations emphasizing hand safety and demonstrating the science behind different chemical processes. 

“Events like this enable students to step out of the classroom and see how interesting and fun STEM can be,” said Glen Haffelder, human resources manager for LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex. “Our hope is that the information we shared with students will spark a passion for a future career in a STEM field.”

The complex’s science extravaganza is meant to complement the STEM-focused programs and curriculum districts already have in place. Extending learning outside the classroom can help further motivate students and their study of STEM subjects.

“Engaging students with lessons outside of the classroom helps facilitate STEM subjects in a practical way,” said Brandi Joines, Tidehaven ISD’s Workforce Industry Training sponsor. “Students can become even more interested and creative when we integrate their textbook knowledge with real-world experiences.”

In addition to the science extravaganza, employees of LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex advance solutions in our community each year through volunteerism, fundraising, guest teaching and speaking engagements, hosting site tours and holding board positions in several local organizations. For more information on how the plant gives back, visit www.lyb.com/matagorda.

About LyondellBasell
LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) is one of the largest plastics, chemicals and refining companies in the world. Driven by its employees around the globe, LyondellBasell produces materials and products that are key to advancing solutions to modern challenges like enhancing food safety through lightweight and flexible packaging, protecting the purity of water supplies through stronger and more versatile pipes, improving the safety, comfort and fuel efficiency of many of the cars and trucks on the road, and ensuring the safe and effective functionality in electronics and appliances. LyondellBasell sells products into more than 100 countries and is the world's largest producer of polymer compounds and the largest licensor of polyolefin technologies. In 2018, LyondellBasell was named to Fortune magazine’s list of the “World’s Most Admired Companies.” More information about LyondellBasell can be found at  www.LyondellBasell.com.

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