To gain insights into their unique journeys and motivations, we asked three of our engineers to share their stories in their own words: how they found their paths to engineering, what their roles entail and advice for future engineers. Not surprisingly, their responses were just as diverse as their roles.
Why engineering?
“In high school I gravitated towards math and science classes and decided to go to Kansas State to major in chemistry. I quickly realized that I didn’t want to be a scientist and switched my major to engineering because of how many opportunities there were.”
— Maggie Collins, reliability center coordinator, Koch Fertilizer Enid
“I had wanted to be an engineer since I was a kid. I enjoyed doing things like launching hobby rockets, making model airplanes, and building computers. My interest in chemical engineering originated in my high school chemistry class. Chemistry really made sense to me, and I enjoyed doing experiments in the lab. When I was registering for college, I realized there was a chemical engineering major which merged two subjects I really enjoyed.”
— Brian Stensgard, process engineering superintendent, Koch Fertilizer Wever
“My interest in engineering started when I joined the Army 10 years ago. My leadership team in the Army consisted of Iowa State University graduates, all with engineering degrees. Over the years, I had many conversations with them about pursuing a career in engineering. They highlighted the industry's growth potential, its constant evolution, and the freedom that engineering provides — financial stability, continuous skill development and, ultimately, a fulfilling career.”
— Austin Nelsen, plant engineer, Koch Fertilizer Fort Dodge
So … what exactly do you do?
“My role is to break down complex problems related to maintenance, reliability, and safety and environmental concerns. From there, I develop solutions using the engineering problem-solving process while collaborating with subject matter experts and stakeholders throughout the life of the project.”
— Austin Nelsen, plant engineer, Koch Fertilizer Fort Dodge
“My degree is in chemical engineering, and I spent the first five years of my career as a process engineer helping the operations team optimize how the plants run. The last two years I’ve spent as a reliability center coordinator for the same units I was a process engineer in. I use the operations knowledge I gained as a process engineer to maintain the equipment.”
— Maggie Collins, reliability center coordinator, Koch Fertilizer Enid
“Process engineers are expected to be subject matter experts regarding the unit operations and technologies used to produce the various products on site. That expectation not only means we understand the reactions occurring within pipes and vessels but also know what valves, pumps, compressors, catalysts, analyzers, and metallurgy should be used in specific parts of the plant. We work with operations to ensure production is safely maximized at the highest efficiency possible, as well as find new ways to apply technologies and equipment to improve the safety, production, and efficiency of the production units. Process engineers also ensure the processes are designed and operated safely through process monitoring, process hazard assessments, management of change, and maintaining accurate process safety information.”
— Brian Stensgard, process engineering superintendent, Koch Fertilizer Wever
What’s rewarding to you about being an engineer at Koch Fertilizer?
“At Koch Fertilizer, engineers are encouraged to think outside the box and embrace a principled entrepreneurial mindset. The ability to align plant needs with personal interests and technical expertise not only drives innovation but also fosters personal engagement and career fulfillment. Engineers are given the autonomy and support to drive meaningful change, which sets this environment apart from others. Every day, I have the opportunity to collaborate with some of the finest engineers in the Koch fleet. Working with multidisciplinary engineering teams to solve complex process challenges is the most rewarding part of my job.”
— Austin Nelsen, plant engineer, Koch Fertilizer Fort Dodge
“The most fulling part of my job is solving a problem that people haven’t been able to figure out. Typically, as a process engineer, these problems are issues the plant is having which don’t have obvious causes. I find it rewarding to analyze historical data and trends to determine what is causing the plant issue and making recommendations to correct it. I also really enjoy the variety that comes with working at a fertilizer plant. Each day brings new challenging projects and issues to work on. After 10 years in the industry, I am still learning new things about the plant every day. It never gets boring. It is also great to have a network of engineers and SMEs to reach out to for help and guidance.”
— Brian Stensgard, process engineering superintendent, Koch Fertilizer Wever
“The people I get to work with have always been my favorite part. It was a big reason I wanted to come back to work here after my internship. Also, taking a problem and getting the right people in the room to work through it and come up with a solution. People here are always willing to help wherever they can which makes this such a great place to work.”
— Maggie Collins, reliability center coordinator, Koch Fertilizer Enid
Any words of wisdom for future engineers?
“I would tell someone pursuing an engineering degree to try out different engineering fields and industries as an intern or at a co-op. These opportunities will help you hone in on what career is right for you. When I was in school working on my degree, I had a very specific engineering field in mind for my career. After completing an internship in this field, I found it wasn’t a good fit for me. After graduating, I was able to get into process engineering instead and it’s been a great fit for me. Plus, internships and co-ops are great resume builders and will help you get that first job out of college.”
— Brian Stensgard, process engineering superintendent, Koch Fertilizer Wever
“College doesn’t teach you how to be an engineer, it teaches you how to think like an engineer. Keep an open mind and ask a lot of questions to understand.”
— Maggie Collins, reliability center coordinator, Koch Fertilizer Enid
“Go for it! Get involved in something that genuinely sparks your interest and build on it. Engaging in hobbies, taking on new challenges, or even enrolling in a class can provide inspiration and personal growth. These experiences will stay with you for life and are never wasted. Most importantly, share what you learn — whether with friends, family, or colleagues. Engineering is about breaking down complex ideas and making them accessible so others can understand, build upon, and improve them. That’s the power of engineering — taking lessons learned today and adapting them for tomorrow’s goals.”
— Austin Nelsen, plant engineer, Koch Fertilizer Fort Dodge
At Koch Fertilizer, there’s always room for motivated, forward-thinking people who are determined to drive innovation, solve challenges and make a meaningful impact — whether as an engineer or one of many other possible roles. Whatever your background, at Koch Fertilizer you’ll be empowered to pursue your passions and forge a fulfilling career. Start your journey today at
kochcareers.com.