At the heart of every strong organization are those quietly building its foundation—system by system.
At Golden Triangle Polymers, one of those people is Krystal Dean, a Quality Systems Specialist, with a story of resilience, reinvention and a deep passion for setting systems that will shape the future of Southeast Texas industry.
A Journey Rooted in Southeast Texas
Krystal was born and raised in Beaumont, Texas. After earning a biology degree from Lamar University, she worked in industrial labs until the COVID-19 pandemic led to a nine-month layoff. This experience led Krystal to take a leap of faith and apply for jobs she normally wouldn’t entertain. In August 2024, Krystal joined Golden Triangle Polymers and is now helping to build the very backbone of the company’s operational success.
What Does a Quality Systems Specialist Do?
Krystal’s role is both technical and foundational. She’s responsible for implementing ISO-certified quality management systems that align with international standards. “Everyone goes by that standard,” she said. “I’m writing the quality manual for our facility.”
Currently, the plant is still in its early stages, which gives Krystal a unique opportunity: “I’ve never created [a system] in my own words before. I can take all my past experience and create the perfect system. I’m creating all the rules.”
She travels between plants in Beaumont, Baytown, and Pasadena to guide internal audits and create outlines that will support long-term excellence at GTP.
Breaking Barriers and Owning Her Expertise
Krystal acknowledges that working in quality systems can be internally demanding. “I want everything to be perfect,” she says. But she credits her colleagues for being incredibly supportive, helping her find her voice and encouraging collaboration.
For women considering a career in technical fields, Krystal offers empowering advice:
“Be confident in who you are and what you can do. I had to learn along the way because I would second-guess myself. Stand strong on who you are. Nobody can take that from you.”
Leaving a Lasting Legacy at Golden Triangle Polymers
When Krystal talks about the future, her pride is unmistakable. “When this plant is 50 years old, my name will be imprinted on the beginning of it. I’ll be a part of the history of this plant.” That sense of legacy is what drives her to give her all to every audit, every manual, every process.
Life Outside the Plant
When she’s not helping GTP build a quality future, Krystal is a dedicated mother. Her 16-year-old daughter is a dancer, participating in ballet, tap, and even marching in Galveston’s Trash-Off Parade. “She wants to go to Southern University,” Krystal beams. “She’s so excited to be part of their dance program, as well as becoming a ‘Doll,’ Southern’s dance team.”
The two share a love for travel, and Krystal is planning a trip to Bali in August—a dream delayed by COVID but now coming to life.
And of course, there’s the local joy of being a foodie: “We love to eat,” she laughs, recalling a photo of her daughter enjoying Taste of the Triangle as a toddler.
Why Stories Like Krystal’s Matter
In Southeast Texas, where industry is part of the community’s lifeblood, professionals like Krystal are not only shaping operational excellence—they’re inspiring the next generation to pursue technical careers with confidence.
Whether you’re a young woman considering a career in STEM or someone looking to return to the workforce with a new purpose, Krystal’s journey proves that resilience, clarity, and community support make all the difference.