by Dwayne Sattler, CEO

As the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF) continues advancing our mission of Creating Exciting Futures in STEM, we are proud to share the launch of the Industry Advisory Council (IAC). This distinguished group of executives and thought leaders will help guide how CEF prepares students for tomorrow’s STEM workforce—supporting pathways from career and technical education to college and beyond.

This milestone reflects both our history of impact and our commitment to ensuring CEF’s programs align with the evolving needs of students, educators, and employers.

Why Launch the IAC?

  • Building on 35+ Years of Impact: With more than 5.7 million students reached, 63,000+ volunteer hours contributed, and over $250,000 in scholarships awarded, CEF has demonstrated the power of early STEM access. The IAC strengthens this foundation by providing strategic insights that will keep our programming aligned with workforce needs.
  • Connecting Industry and Education: The IAC provides a forum for senior leaders to share perspectives on workforce development, ensuring students are introduced to authentic career pathways and real-world STEM applications.
  • Elevating Industry Leadership: Participation gives members the opportunity to demonstrate commitment to community and workforce development while collaborating with peers across industries.

Highlights from the Inaugural Meeting

On June 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas, executives representing a cross-section of industries and disciplines came together for the inaugural IAC meeting. Conversations centered on bold strategies for preparing students for STEM pathways—from skilled trades to technical programs to college degrees.

Guiding questions included:

  • What opportunities best help students see themselves in STEM roles?
  • How can industry shape authentic student STEM experiences?
  • What does effective, scalable employee engagement look like?

The meeting followed CEF’s National Challenge Competition, where middle school finalists showcased outstanding STEM knowledge and entrepreneurial problem-solving. Their creativity underscored the importance of introducing students to STEM early.

“We are deeply grateful to our Industry Advisory Council members for sharing their expertise and vision. Their leadership ensures CEF continues building a stronger, more diverse STEM workforce.”
— Terry Hill, Chair of the IAC; Advisor and Former CEO, Barentz

Who Are the Founding Members?
We are honored to introduce the inaugural members of the IAC:

  • Terry Hill, Advisor & Former CEO, Barentz; IAC Chair
  • Calvin Emanuel, PhD, VP & GM Sustainable Growth Solutions, Nalco Water, An Ecolab Company; President, CEF Board of Trustees
  • Jim Clawson, CEO, Third Coast
  • Gary Cooper, CEO, Aegis Chemical Solutions
  • Todd Cottrell, CEO, Azelis Americas
  • Mark Devaney, VP Global Operations, Huntsman
  • Lottie Elwood, SVP & GM, Global Chemicals, Nalco Water, An Ecolab Company
  • Casey Houghton, Managing Director, Russell Reynolds Associates
  • Jason McAlpine, SVP Chemicals, BASF
  • Chet Thompson, President & CEO, American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM)
  • Jonathan Weatherly, SVP Global Manufacturing, Solstice Advanced Materials
  • Tekie Zeru, SVP & Chief Technology Officer, Hexion

Why Join the IAC?
IAC members help shape national STEM education and workforce initiatives while gaining visibility as leaders committed to community impact. They also enjoy exclusive networking with senior executives across industries and the chance to engage directly with CEF programs that inspire students and equip educators nationwide.

What Comes Next?
The Industry Advisory Council will meet twice per year, aligned with CEF’s Board of Trustees meetings, and continue to guide CEF’s efforts in connecting students with meaningful STEM opportunities.

Upcoming Meetings:

  • February 19, 2026 – Nalco Water Technology Center, Houston, TX
  • June 4, 2026 – Houston, TX (following the CEF National Challenge Dinner & Awards Ceremony)

Call for Additional IAC Members
We are actively inviting additional industry leaders from chemicals, energy, technology, healthcare, aerospace, sustainability, and other STEM-driven fields to join the IAC. Interested senior executives will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers, guide impactful initiatives, and help ensure the future strength of America’s STEM workforce.

For more information about the Industry Advisory Council or to inquire about membership, please contact Brandy Gates at BGates@CEFinSTEM.org.

We are grateful to our founding members for stepping forward to help CEF lead this next chapter. Your continued support and partnership make it possible to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Together, we are truly Creating Exciting Futures in STEM!