Axel Diaz Viganoni

I'm a Chemical Engineer with 17 years of experience in Petrochemical and Utilities Plants as Senior Process Engineer, Operations Engineer, and Technical Trainer.

I am writing to express my interest to join the team. With over 17 years in the petrochemical industry, I offer extensive experience in plant performance, process optimization, operations leadership, commissioning and start-up, technical training, operations readiness, and safety management.

My background includes working in Methanol, Hydrogen-CO and Utilities plants in South America, Africa, and Saudi Arabia. I have led operations activities, MOCs, RCAs, event investigation, risk assessment, turnaround execution, commissioning, and supporting in HAZOPs, turnaround planning, and have driven process improvements to enhance performance and reliability. At AMPCO (Africa), I implemented a technical training program, developed DCS simulator-based instruction, and supported key MOC and RCA initiatives.

Proficient in major DCS Operations (DeltaV, Yokogawa), PIMS (PI System and Exaquantum), LIMS (Lab System), Aspen HYSYS, SAP, as well as OTS Instructor, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team from day one.

Operations Training Coordinator (Process & Operations Support), Methanol Plant at Atlantic Methanol Production Company (AMPCO) (2023-10 – 2025-05)

• Developed and implemented a structured operations competency program for DCS and Field Operators supporting safe and reliable plant operations.
• Led Operator Training Simulator (OTS) programs focused on start-up, shutdown, abnormal situations and process control strategies to improve operational decision-making, reducing operational error while assessing and identifying potential DCS Operators.
• Oversaw compliance with HES Regulations and company standards to ensure safe and regulated operations.
• Provided technical support and knowledge, collaborated effectively with Operations Staff to enhance team performance with development and execution of MOCs, RCAS and operational troubleshooting to improve plant safety and reliability.
• Coordinated Shift training and supported on-the-job training (OJT) with shift supervisors to improve operational efficiency.
• Standardized SOPs, troubleshooting procedures and operational documentation, improving knowledge transfer and operational consistency.
• Provided technical operational support during abnormal situations and operational reviews.

Shift Engineer, Hydrogen-Carbon Monoxide Plant (HyCO) at Sahara International Petrochemical, SIPCHEM (2018-06 – 2023-09)

• Monitored production equipment and operations, ensuring that production targets and quality specifications were consistently met, ensuring alignment with KPIs.
• Conducted optimization activities during shifts to enhance operational and cost efficiency.
• Ensured the effective handling of plant equipment and systems to maintain safety and efficiency, while also monitoring projects being implemented.
• Provided essential technical support and knowledge to Operations Management to facilitate decision making as well as actively participated in audits and investigations including HAZOP and PHA to ensure quality and safety.
• Managed PSM and Safety Practices, including Risk Assessments, LOTO and work permitting to ensure a safe working environment.
• Utilized Asset Integrity tools such as SAP, J5 Report System and LIMS to ensure operational quality ensuring efficient and timely delivery and consolidation of critical operation reports.
• Facilitated staff training and feedback sessions to enhance skills and performance.
• Monitored and reported on workplace safety, ensuring adherence to emergency procedures.
• Executed advanced DCS operations and made informed, critical decisions to optimize performance.
• Collaborated in shutdown planning and executed optimization exercises, achieving on-time and cost-effective completions.

Process and Production Engineer, Methanol Plant at Metanol de Oriente, METOR S.A. (2008-12 – 2018-04)

• Expertly analyzed and monitored methanol plant operations to detect and rectify operational discrepancies, optimizing raw material consumption according to budgetary constraints and impacting in reliability and production costs.
• Ensured methanol product quality "Federal AA" at minimal cost while adhering to safety and operational standards.
• Provided multifaceted support in roles such as Operations Maintenance Coordinator and Shift Supervisor, leveraging technical expertise to assist in Process and Control Engineering activities.
• Generated analytical reports monitoring trends and deviations in operational data, recommending corrective actions to maintain optimal performance and safety.
• Led Operator Training Simulator (OTS), developed and trained over 30 Process Operators instructing on effective operations and protocols as well as guided and mentored Process Engineers, enhancing skills levels and ensuring safe operations.
• Led investigations and participated in audits, HAZOPs, RCAs, MOCs and cross-disciplinary collaboration enhancing operational safety and efficiency in compliance with international safety standards.
• Led, organized and executed operational activities from pre-commissioning through initial start-up, including shutdown planning and the coordination of operational tests and PSSRs, ensuring consistency with maintenance and technical directives.
• Managed work permits during scheduled shutdowns, ensuring compliance with industrial safety standards to prevent accidents.
• Developed SOPs and DCS Control Philosophy Manuals, enhancing procedural clarity and operational efficiency across systems and equipment.

Operations Trainee at Metanol de Oriente, METOR S.A. (2008-12 – 2009-08)

Gained expertise in methanol plant commissioning, DCS operations, process evaluation, and safety compliance.

Internship - Process Engineering Department at Metanol de Oriente, METOR S.A. (2008-12 – 2009-08)

Thesis: "Evaluation of Protection System for the Steam Reformer and Process Compressors of a Methanol Production Plant".

Physicochemical Laboratory Assistant at Universidad de Oriente (2005-01 – 2007-12)

Supporting research and teaching activities to conduct physicochemical experiments enforcing safety protocols.

Postgraduate Specialization in Petrochemical Industry – Universidad National de San Martin & Argentine Petrochemical Institute, IPA

Diploma in Management Development – Universidad Metropolitana

Chemical Engineer in Chemical Engineering – Universidad de Oriente, UDO (2010)