The Chemistry of Leadership: A 6-Ingredient Formula for Success

When Paula Cartwright was hired as Quality Coordinator / Lab Supervisor at AmSty's St. James, Louisiana, plant 25 years ago, she thought it would be a piece of cake.

The Louisiana native, who earned her chemistry degree from Louisiana State University, came from Pennzoil-Quaker State where they used "recipes" to formulate over 350 products like motor oil, antifreeze, steering fluids and the like.

How hard could it be to supervise a lab where they make one product, styrene?

"It was a big learning curve, and, in some cases, I learned the hard way," said Paula, who oversees a team of six and manages hiring, training and the development of both AmSty employees and contractors.

Styrene is a material used in a variety of products that enhance our lives every day – tires, dashboards, appliances, medical supplies, shoe soles, food packaging and more. And ensuring its quality in the lab is a meticulous and rigorous process that requires many steps and tests along the way to make sure it meets quality and safety standards.

Leadership in the Lab

Spending a quarter century in the lab has helped shape Paula's leadership style.

As a new hire, Paula focused on understanding the processes and getting to know her team, rather than coming in and immediately making changes. To this day, she makes it a priority to learn everyone's perspectives and their strengths and weaknesses – and foster an atmosphere of family, mutual respect and trust.

Today, her leadership is defined by six fundamentals that offer a balanced approach - combing empathy, accountability and a commitment to excellence.

1. Take Care of Your Team and They'll Take Care of You

Paula's number one leadership priority is simple: "Take care of your employees, and they'll take care of you."

She believes that investing in her team's well-being and recognizing their individual needs pays off in high-quality work and dedication.

"It's about knowing the person, not just the employee," she said.

Paula's philosophy comes from her personal experiences, particularly losing both of her parents at a young age. "Family first" is not just a slogan for her – it's a deeply held belief. She strives to ensure her team knows they have her support, both professionally and personally.

2. Know Your Team as People, Not Just Employees

One of Paula's most important leadership practices is understanding the people she works with.

"I take an interest in who they are as people," said Paula. "Who are their families? What are their interests and hobbies? What did you do over the weekend?"

This focus on building relationships helps her foster a sense of community within the team. By taking the time to learn about their lives outside of work, Paula demonstrates that she values her employees as individuals, not just workers.

3. Create a Culture of Open Communication

Paula's leadership style thrives on open communication.

"I have an open-door policy," she said, emphasizing the importance of making time for her employees whenever they need her, even if it's 2 a.m.

Her open-door policy goes beyond physical access – it's about ensuring that employees feel heard.

"If one of my lab techs says, 'Hey, do you have a minute?' I make time for them," she said.

She removes distractions, like turning off her cell phone, so her full attention is on the conversation. Paula knows that effective communication is a two-way street, and sometimes it's about focusing not just on the words being spoken but on the body language and emotions that accompany them.

4. Lead by Example

Leading by example is a cornerstone of Paula's leadership approach.

"I like to lead by example. I have a strong work ethic," she said.

Paula's approach to leadership is grounded in integrity and a relentless commitment to excellence. She holds herself to the same high standards she expects from her team. By consistently demonstrating the behaviors and attitudes she wants to see in her team members, Paula fosters a culture where hard work, accountability and ethical behavior are the norm.

"I believe in always doing the right thing," said Paula.

Her strong sense of personal integrity encourages her team to mirror that same sense of responsibility.

5. Foster Accountability and Ownership

Paula empowers her team to take ownership of their work by fostering a culture of accountability.

"I don't micromanage, but I lay out clear expectations," she said.

Paula emphasizes the importance of accuracy, safety and following established procedures in the lab.

"We work above the bar every day," said Paula.

By setting clear expectations and ensuring everyone understands their role in the lab's success, Paula helps her team feel responsible for both their individual performance and the success of the entire team.

6. Support Career Growth and Development

A crucial part of Paula's leadership philosophy is helping her team members grow professionally.

"A couple of times a year, I sit down with each team member and ask them about their career goals. 'What do you want to do?'" she said.

Paula makes it clear that she's there to support her team's ambitions, even if those goals might take them beyond AmSty.

"I support them whether it's growing within the company or exploring opportunities outside of AmSty," said Paula.

This support for her team's career growth not only helps them develop their skills but also fosters a sense of loyalty, knowing that Paula genuinely cares about their long-term success.

At the end of the day, Paula's team knows that she "has their back" and that they can rely on her for guidance, support, feedback – and friendship. It's an approach that fosters an environment of collaboration, ownership and mutual respect – values that drive AmSty's success every day.