Whether you are just starting out in your career or are a seasoned professional serving the hazmat environmental industry, IHMM offers resources and professional credentials to help you advance and grow in your career.
Hear from one of IHMM’s Certificant Insiders on why they chose to pursue a credential through IHMM.
 | Q&A with IHMM Certificant InsiderPatrick McDowell |
What or who motivated you to earn an IHMM credential?
Two things predominantly motivated me to pursue an IHMM credential. I had a professor at Columbia Southern University, Dr. Paul T. Baumgardner, who was one of my main professors for my Masters degree. He kept pushing me to be the best I could be by challenging me over and over to rise to a higher standard he knew I could achieve. He mentioned that CSU was offering students the opportunity to take the ST-CHMM and made the suggestion to me that it would be a great stepping stone for my career that would push me a step further in the right direction. Dr. Paul was an awesome professor who continues to look out for me. My second main motivating factor was my kids. I know it can sound cliché, but I always look to see how I can improve so I can teach my kids they can do anything if they work hard enough and believe in themselves.
Are there any opportunities you’re looking forward to as a result of earning an IHMM credential?
I work for an amazing company, Hankook Tire, where all the experiences I have earned and collected over time, I’m empowered to pass along and teach to others. One of the coolest opportunities I’ve had with the company is being able to teach new hires coming into the industry to be more safety-minded. Obtaining certifications like my ST-CHMM is one of the certifications that will allow me to better prepare any of the future workplace employees to be more safety conscious and to want to be more involved in safe practices. It’s a great feeling to be able to not only have a positive impact in the workplace but to actually see the culture change because of the things I bring to the table. I’m also looking forward to converting my ST-CHMM to a CHMM once I am fully prepared to make that transition
What would you say to someone who is considering earning an IHMM credential?
Do it! It’s one of the certifications that not many people have. It’ll make you a better professional and will open up opportunities for you that weren’t previously there. I will always preach to others that whatever you can do, do it today to better yourself tomorrow. Anything worth doing is worth the trouble and time of pursuing it. IHMM is an amazing organization whose goal is to improve and teach those in the industry. It is a certificate that is always worth having and maintaining. Joining the IHMM family means you are surrounded by professionals who care about your development and growth in order to succeed.
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