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A proud member of MATHESON’s Air Separation Unit (ASU) commissioning team, Julyann Tu blends her technical expertise with her passion for continuous learning. With over a decade of experience in application engineering and technical training, Julyann holds a degree in industrial engineering and an MBA in technology leadership. In 2020, she led a training session with the Cayce ASU team, introducing her to the fast-paced, detail-driven nature of their work. Julyann welcomed new challenges and opportunities as she joined the MATHESON team in 2021.

If you keep your head down and put in good work, good things will come your way.

Julyann

As a Control Systems Engineer, Julyann plays a critical role in bringing MATHESON’s ASUs online safely and efficiently. Her work goes far beyond understanding control logic; it demands a deep knowledge of how every instrument, valve, and system within the plant works together. Working closely with teammates ensures each adjustment supports the plant as a whole, making the process both precise and rewarding. It’s a shared responsibility where collaboration is a key component of the job. The wide variety of projects keeps things dynamic, opening the door for continued learning and growth.

One project, however, stands out among the rest. Julyann traveled to MATHESON’s HyCO plant in Talara, Peru, to help resolve a challenging automation issue. It was a professional milestone and a cultural adventure wrapped in one. Beyond the technical work, she found herself immersed in a unique environment filled with some of the best seafood she’d ever eaten. The trip not only expanded her expertise but also gave her unforgettable stories to bring back to the team.

Outside of work, Julyann can be found digging through antique malls and estate sales for unique vintage furniture and home décor. She balances her active lifestyle of hiking, cycling, and working out with a love of baking, something she picked up during the pandemic and now shares with family and friends. Her mantra? A humorous quote from Lil Wayne: “Real G’s move in silence like lasagna,” a reminder that “if you keep your head down and put in good work, good things will come your way.”

Julyann’s passion for staying on the forefront of control systems technology helps ensure MATHESON stays up to date in the latest versions of software, hardware, and control philosophies. She values the company’s commitment to safety, opportunities for hands-on learning outside of her primary skill set, and the strong sense of teamwork that’s carried her through some of the most complex projects. With curiosity, creativity, and just the right amount of humor, Julyann brings energy and expertise to every site she visits.

Do you want to join the MATHESON team? Learn about all our open positions:

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Brian Spraker has been a valued member of the MATHESON team for over 13 years, currently working as an IT Support Specialist. His technology-focused career began in middle school while working at a small-town electronics store, where he built his first computer. Brian enhanced his customer service skills in various call centers before transitioning into IT. He later joined Continental Carbonic Products, which subsequently became part of MATHESON. 

Those early experiences taught him how to listen, adapt, and provide support, skills that remain central to his work. Brian has grown into a “jack-of-all-trades” in IT. His responsibilities range from helpdesk support and troubleshooting to phone system upgrades and mobile device management.

Everything seems difficult until you learn how—and then it feels like second nature.

Brian

One of Brian’s most challenging and rewarding projects came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when he was tasked with migrating Continental Carbonic employees to the MATHESON mail server. The effort required long hours, careful coordination, and seamless execution. At the core of Brian’s work is a passion for problem-solving and helping others. He enjoys collaborating with teammates across the organization and values the friendships and connections he’s built along the way.  

Recently, he led a major cost-saving initiative that cut the company’s phone service expenses by $2.4 million, an ongoing effort that continues to make a lasting impact. “As someone who is frugal and finds ways to make a dollar go further in my personal life, I also see that as a focus within the company,” he says. It’s a mindset that aligns closely with MATHESON’s emphasis on financial responsibility and efficiency.

Being a jack-of-all-trades doesn’t stop at closing time; it carries over into his hobbies and interests outside of MATHESON. Brian is actively involved in his local church and enjoys gardening fresh vegetables at home. He also manages rental properties in Florida, including a vacation condo near the beach in Navarre. Brian jokes that he finds it hard to truly “relax” on vacation—if there’s nothing on the schedule, he’ll end up responding to emails and helping teammates instead of enjoying the beach!

For those new to MATHESON or just starting in IT, Brian offers simple, solid advice: don’t be afraid to ask questions. “Everything seems difficult until you learn how—and then it feels like second nature,” he says. His curiosity, persistence, and commitment to supporting others continue to make a meaningful impact at MATHESON—one solved problem at a time.

Do you want to join the MATHESON team? Learn about all our open positions:

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Bob Gould is celebrating 33 years with MATHESON this month, marking a long and accomplished career in the industrial gas business. Bob has taken on many roles since joining in 1993, including driver trainer, credit representative, and technical support before landing in his current position as an Inside Sales Representative (ISR). His strong work ethic and willingness to embrace new challenges have made him a valuable resource for customers and colleagues.

In his role as an ISR, Bob prioritizes exceptional customer service, ensuring each customer finds the right solution for their needs. Whether answering technical questions, placing orders, or resolving vendor issues, he approaches problem-solving thoughtfully and carefully. He believes in guiding customers toward better solutions without making them feel wrong – a principle he learned early in his career. Bob jokes, “If the customer is asking for 1109 welding rod, turn the number over, it is most likely 6011!” Beyond sales, he assists with various tasks like stocking inventory or receiving freight. 

Live each day for what it is. Tomorrow is another new day.

Bob

Bob’s dedication to keeping operations running smoothly has been evident in both times of crisis and times of growth. When a fire destroyed MATHESON’s South Portland filling facility 25 years ago, he was critical in maintaining gas supply by transporting cylinders between locations, often working long overnight shifts to ensure customers were unaffected. Years later, during the 2018 relocation of the Lewiston branch, his technical expertise proved just as essential. He worked closely with the IT department to set up computers, phones, and internal communications, ensuring a seamless transition. 

Outside of work, Bob is a self-proclaimed “geek”. He is passionate about computers and amateur radio, using his skills to support emergency communications. He volunteers with organizations like the Oxford County Emergency Management Agency and the Maine Lung Association’s Trek Across Maine, ensuring reliable radio communications for large-scale events. These passions unexpectedly gave him the tools to excel professionally. “What I really was not aware of at the time was that a geek really fits into this business well. There is a lot of technology in the welding process, and it is always changing.”

Bob’s advice for new employees is simple: always strive to give 100% and take advantage of every learning opportunity. He believes that training and continuous learning make the job easier and more enjoyable. His mantra, “Live each day for what it is. Tomorrow is another new day,” speaks to his positive outlook and adaptability—qualities that define his long and successful career at MATHESON.

Do you want to join the MATHESON team? Learn about all our open positions:

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With a background in theatre, English, and law, Heather Reese has mastered the art of communication – an essential skill in her role as a Corporate Recruiter at MATHESON. Since joining the company in March 2022, she has been dedicated to finding the best talent and helping candidates discover roles where they can thrive. Her passion for connecting with people and guiding them through the hiring process makes her an invaluable asset to the team. 

Heather’s day-to-day responsibilities vary, keeping her job engaging and dynamic. Some days are spent sourcing candidates and reviewing applications, while others are filled with phone calls and collaboration with hiring managers. She thrives on the challenge of matching the right person to the right role and ensuring they see the value in joining MATHESON. More than just filling positions, she sees recruiting as an opportunity to impact people’s lives by helping them take the next step in their careers.

A key part of Heather’s success is the teamwork and support she receives from her colleagues. She values the shared expertise of her recruiting team, drawing on their knowledge to refine her own approach. Working closely with hiring managers allows her to understand the company’s needs and confidently advocate for the roles she fills. Seeing new employees find success and fulfillment in their positions is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.

Outside of work, Heather remains active in community theatre, a passion she shares with her husband, Ian, who also works at MATHESON. She says that performing has been a part of her life since childhood, but “just don’t ask me to dance!” Heather and her husband also enjoy cooking and exploring local restaurants together.

Heather believes MATHESON’s culture of care and commitment to excellence makes it a great place to grow both personally and professionally. Her advice to candidates and colleagues is to stay confident, embrace their unique strengths, and be open to new challenges. Through collaboration and continuous learning, she is proud to contribute to a company that values its people and strives to make a difference.

Do you want to join the MATHESON team? Learn about all our open positions:

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Chrisdan McCready began her journey with MATHESON in the Legal department in March 2016 before transitioning to Human Resources in 2018. This move allowed her to take on new responsibilities and sharpen her project management, communication, and problem-solving skills. By taking advantage of this growth opportunity, Chrisdan was able to move to her current role as the Cornerstone and e-days Manager.

Put in your best effort and take pride in what you accomplish.

CHrisdan

In her position, Chrisdan oversees key systems that support daily HR functions, including recruiting, onboarding, and performance management. Her typical day involves monitoring system performance, troubleshooting issues, and developing strategies for improvement. She enjoys the variety and challenges each day brings and finds satisfaction in optimizing processes and supporting her colleagues.

One of Chrisdan’s proudest accomplishments is the successful implementation of the Cornerstone system, which launched in phases from 2021 to 2023. Each phase introduced new functionalities, important to the efficient operation of the HR team. She also played a pivotal role in launching e-days, MATHESON’s vacation management system. Chrisdan consistently refines these systems, ensuring they adapt to the company’s evolving needs and enhance the overall user experience for her teammates.

Chrisdan’s passion for her work parallels her appreciation for her teammates. She values the friendships she has built and enjoys collaborating with her colleagues. She encourages new teammates to strive for excellence, saying, “Put in your best effort and take pride in what you accomplish.” 

Chrisdan loves the outdoors and finds joy in nature. One of her favorite pastimes is hiking with her family, exploring new places, and visiting parks together. She also has three cats and volunteers at a local pet rescue with her daughter.

In her nine years with MATHESON, Chrisdan McCready has become a vital contributor to the HR department, using her skills to implement and manage key systems that streamline operations. Her dedication to continuous improvement, collaboration, and problem-solving, along with her passion for the people and culture at MATHESON, underscores her commitment to the company’s success. 

Do you want to join the MATHESON team? Learn about all our open positions: