Port Arthur Industrial Group (PAIG) is a collective of Port Arthur’s petrochemical industry companies that works closely with its Community Leaders Advisory Group to make Port Arthur, Texas, a better place to live and work.
PAIG’s mission is to improve the quality of life and health of Port Arthur residents by enhancing educational, employment and health care opportunities; improving the environment; and supporting community improvements and economic development.
The organization has a strong focus on education. Since 2003, the group has contributed over $2.5 million toward educational efforts for Port Arthur students. Over 300 college scholarships have been awarded to students, and approximately 600 high school students have received financial assistance.
“Our challenge is getting students as young as eighth grade interested in a career in the petrochemical industry,” said PAIG Board Chairman and Chevron Phillips Chemical Plant Manager Mike Nemeth. “We began a career day on the campus of Port Arthur’s Memorial High School to introduce these students to the career path options available. During this two-day event, we brought in speakers and presenters for students and parents to learn about opportunities and career readiness.
“We continue to collaborate with our contractors and other community stakeholders to develop strategies and training for entry into the petrochemical industry.”
Member companies have partnered with Texas Workforce Commission, Port Arthur Independent School District, Port Arthur Economic Development Commission and others to focus on job training and placement strategies, academic and technical careers, and community improvements.
Lisa P. Jackson, former EPA administrator, recognized the organization as one of the best business and community leader collaborations in the country.
“Since 2000, we set goals that have led to the successes listed above,” said PAIG Facilitator John Hall. “We spent the better half of 2017 developing new goals with the intent to impact the current and future needs of our community and organization.”
Petrochemical companies that operate in Port Arthur can join as contributing members. Community leaders who make up the Advisory Group come from various backgrounds, but all are dedicated to making Port Arthur a better place. The knowledge sharing that occurs during the monthly meetings is valuable to the companies and Advisory Group on the current events in the area. Guest speakers are invited to attend and report on various topics, including community outreach, air quality and workforce outlook.
“Over the years, it became apparent that many people entered the workforce but struggled financially to go back to school and pursue a certification or degree,” explained Nemeth. “The 2nd Chance Scholarships were added to the community giving and awarded to individuals who would like to work in the petrochemical industry. This scholarship is unique because it offers an opportunity as a summer intern with a member company to gain invaluable experience.
“Our work with Port Arthur Independent School District and Lamar State College Port Arthur has strengthened our partnerships with public and higher education. These partnerships are vital to the success of our community.
“The most important insight has been what can be accomplished when we talk openly about community issues and work collaboratively on solutions.”
“PAIG continues to focus on our local community, supporting efforts to move Port Arthur forward and continue to build on the foundation of mutual trust and respect we have worked to create,” added Hall . “The monthly meeting between industry members and the Advisory Group is a valuable time to discuss current and future needs, including environmental concerns, economic development and community improvements.
“PAIG has a 17-year history of adapting to the current needs of the community. We plan to continue our commitment to work with citizens to help find solutions to challenges in our community. The future includes recruiting new community leaders of various generations to keep a pulse on our community.
“From a business perspective, we believe the success of this industry/community partnership will continue to make future investments in the Port Arthur area more attractive.”
For ongoing industry updates, visit BICMagazine.com.
