Mike Stanzel

About me

I was born/grew up in: Sudbury, ON

I now live in: Kitchener, ON

I completed my training/education at: Queen's University, Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

What I do at work

Our company provides chemical additives to the construction industry. I work as part of the North American team, managing the Canadian region. I work with cement plants to supply them with grinding additives. These additives can improve the efficiency of the cement milling process. They can also improve the performance of the cement in the field.

My work with our customers involves many different steps. First, I need to understand the plant's technical objectives, limitations, and market conditions. Then, I need to screen product solutions to identify, trial, and evaluate options. Finally, I present the results and we come to an agreement about supply. My job also includes maintenance of customer accounts.

My team also offers technical expertise on the best ways to improve cement milling operations. We work closely with the formulation team to develop and test new products. We work with the customer service and logistics teams to make sure customers are satisfied. We also work with the operations and supply chain teams to forecast material needs.

There's no such thing as a typical day. I could be doing a trial with a customer, or reviewing the condition and operation of their milling systems. I could be building spreadsheet simulations, or putting a presentation together.

Having a background in chemical engineering helps me apply a process focus to my work. I understand what the available inputs are, what the desired outputs are, and how they relate, and how they can be adjusted to find the best solutions.

My career path is

I always knew that I wanted to get into primary/bulk material manufacturing. So, I took chemical engineering in university. When I graduated, I started working in a cement plant as a quality coordinator/supervisor. Later I became the plant/process engineer. Then, I worked a number of years for a cement manufacturer in a technical services role. This job was a link between manufacturing and sales. I supported cement users with our products. My current position is a natural fit for my experience. It offers the best of both worlds - a strong process and quality focus, and working with people.

I am motivated by

I enjoy the technical challenges of my work. It also requires strong communication and interpersonal skills. I’m happy to have an opportunity to help people and make a meaningful difference to society.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Concrete is the most used manufactured material in the world. This is because it has a long service life, it can be placed in a variety of environments, and it has excellent structural characteristics.

The cement powder in concrete produces the most carbon dioxide (CO₂). The work I do helps my clients meet their quality goals and market demand. It also helps them improve their electrical energy efficiency and produce lower CO₂ products.

Outside of work I

Cooking, Adventure Running Coach, Music, Movies, Reading, and best of all - spending time with my family.

My advice to others

Your character is defined by the choices you make, more than anything else.