WOMAN OF THE WEEK
Elevate your industry perspective with our bi-monthly podcast and newsletter. Explore the unique stories of all women in the chemical industry, discussing professional and personal challenges. This initiative provides visibility, builds community, and showcases diverse career opportunities within our industry.
Woman of The Year – 2024
Meet Tauseef Salma
The Woman of the Year award is a tribute to the remarkable women who are shaping the chemical industry and driving positive change. Tauseef’s story reminds us that in the world of chemistry and beyond, excellence knows no gender, and determination knows no bounds.
Woman of the Week
Sneh Pandey
Sneh Pandey, Manager of HR and Administration for Clean Air’s SBU at Johnson Matthey, has built a career dedicated to aligning people and business strategies. As the eldest daughter from Northern India, she was the first in her family to pursue higher education, breaking barriers and redefining expectations along the way. Her journey into human resources stemmed from her passion for connecting with people and driving meaningful change within organizations.
Linda Armitage
In the ever-evolving world of chemicals, adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to embrace challenges are key to success. Linda Armitage, North America Business and Product Manager at Arkema, has built an impressive 17-year career within the same company by embodying these qualities. From her early days as a chemical engineer to her transition into commercial leadership, Linda’s journey is an inspiring testament to growth, perseverance, and the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Melissa Rus
Melissa Rus, Vice President at Garland Industries, Inc., has built an impressive career spanning over 30 years, starting as an intern and rising through the ranks. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, continuous learning, and a deep passion for problem-solving. With a background rooted in science and innovation, Melissa has played a vital role in shaping Garland’s product development and company culture.
Claire Brendel
Claire Brendel, Senior Operations Manager at Twin Rivers Technologies, has built an impressive career in chemical engineering, rising quickly through the ranks. From her early passion for STEM to leading teams in a male-dominated industry, Claire’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and leadership. In this interview, she shares her journey, key lessons, and advice for women looking to make an impact in STEM.
Kaoni Rhodes
Kaoni Rhodes, Director of Quality, Safety, Health, and Environment at Brenntag, brings over two decades of experience in the chemical industry. Her journey reflects a dynamic blend of resilience, leadership, and forward-thinking innovation. Beyond her corporate role, Kaoni is also an entrepreneur and advocate for the ethical use of AI, continuously pushing the boundaries of technology and leadership. Here’s a closer look at her insights and journey.
Amber Thichangthong
Amber Thichangthong, Executive Director of Women in Chemicals, brings a wealth of experience in non-profits and association management to her leadership role. With a deep commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and action-driven results, Amber has quickly become a driving force in shaping the future of Women in Chemicals. Here’s a closer look at her journey, leadership style, and insights.
Danielle Wisecup
Danielle Wisecup, Customer Experience and Logistics Manager at Coalition Culture, is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of customer service experience. Having joined Coalition four years ago, Danielle has brought her passion for empowering others and her deep industry knowledge to the company. Her journey into the chemical industry began in 2006 and has been shaped by diverse experiences, unwavering dedication, and a focus on building meaningful connections within her field.
Nikisha Horn
Nikisha Horn, Director of Product Development at Solo Laboratories, Inc., has carved a unique path blending science and artistry. Starting her career at L’Oréal, she developed products tailored to multicultural markets, leveraging her chemistry expertise to innovate formulations that interact seamlessly with skin and hair. Inspired by her scientist mother and a personal journey navigating psoriasis, Nikisha emphasizes the deeply personal nature of cosmetic care, where every ingredient matters.
Haley Beste
Haley Beste, Safety Manager at Harcros, has carved out a successful career in safety management through a blend of determination, adaptability, and a supportive network. Haley’s story is filled with insightful lessons for anyone navigating the industry.
Sofia Edwards
Sofia Edwards, Key Account Manager at Nouryon, has built a robust career in global sales and relationship management over more than a decade in the oil and gas industry. Starting young, Sofia transformed her early experiences into a journey marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous growth. Here, she shares insights into her career path, lessons learned, and advice for others in the chemical industry.
Ana Taborda
Ana Taborda, a Senior Account Executive at Wego Chemicals, has built a career that is a testament to the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. With a background in materials engineering, she began her professional path in Portugal before venturing into Germany through an internship via the Erasmus program. Over the course of 17 years abroad, Ana thrived in Germany’s male-dominated automotive and chemical industries, where she faced the challenge of navigating different cultures and languages. Her experiences living and working in various countries have shaped her approach to business and leadership, making her a truly global professional.
Nicky Burbidge
Nicky Burbidge, General Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, has built her career by focusing on three essential areas: seeking mentorship, embracing challenges, and honing communication skills. Her journey offers valuable lessons for women looking to make their mark in leadership.