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Tell us about how youÌýmoved into a career in chemistry.

My passion for science was sparked at a young age by my parents, who were both involved in teaching sciences; my dad taught physics, and my mom taught chemistry at the high school level. Growing up surrounded by educational environments like public libraries and experimenting with my mom’s molecular models naturally steered me toward a career in chemistry.

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You have held roles inÌýR&D, product management, and supply chain. What skills have helped you the most through these career moves?

My curiosity, passion for learning, and openness to acknowledging what I don’t know have been instrumental throughout my career transitions. I approach every role with a mindset of seeing every interaction as a learning opportunity. This attitude has not only expanded my skill set but also enhanced my adaptability across various functions.

Describe your leadership style.

My leadership style is dynamic and continually evolving. It varies depending on the specific needs of the team and the objectives at hand.ÌýIn the past,ÌýI tended to micromanage, driven by a strong desire for perfection.ÌýHowever, over time,ÌýI’veÌýembraced the principle thatÌý‘perfect can be the enemy of good,’Ìýlearning to trust myÌýteam’sÌýcapabilities and allowing for autonomy.ÌýThis approachÌýnot only reduces stress but alsoÌýencourages innovation and can lead to outcomes that surpass my initial expectations.

How has your involvement with ACS evolvedÌýover the yearsÌýand helped you in your career?

Initially, my engagement with the American Chemical Öйú365betÖÐÎĹÙÍø (ACS) was pragmatic—mostlyÌýto obtain conference discounts. Over time, I discovered the breadth ofÌýresources ACS offers, like webinars and career coaching.ÌýMy role evolved from a participant to a contributor, organizing events and volunteeringÌýat both local and national levels.ÌýThis involvement hasÌýnot onlyÌýenriched my professional networkÌýbut alsoÌýsolidified my commitment to the chemistry community.

How do your personal and professional passions complement each other?

MyÌýpersonalÌýdrive to learn and engage with the community seamlessly complements my professional pursuits. My volunteer work with ACS, AWIS, and various employee resource groups has built a robust network, providing me with invaluable resources and connections that enhance my professional capabilities and help me achieve broader business goals.

What career advice would you give your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to prioritize building strong relationships even more.ÌýWhile technical skills are crucial,ÌýtheÌýsocial and relational aspectsÌýof career developmentÌýare equally important.ÌýEarly on, I would focus on networking and recommend resources like Keith Ferrazzi’s Never Eat Alone to learn about fostering lasting professional relationships.

What does personal growth look like for you in the nextÌý5Ìýyears?Ìý10Ìýyears?

Over the next five years, as a new mother, I anticipate significant personalÌýgrowthÌýas I learn to balance my child’s needs withÌýmy own.ÌýThisÌýnewÌýphase will enhance my adaptability and improve my collaboration skills, which are valuable in my professional lifeÌýas well.ÌýOver the next decade, I see myself deepening these personal and professional relationships, seeking leadership roles that contribute to societal and scientific advancements, and embracing challenges that foster continuous learning and adaptation.