Women in Chemicals Celebrates STEM Education at CEF National Challenge

On Wednesday, June 11, Women in Chemicals had the honor of celebrating and meeting the finalists of the Chemical Educational Foundation’s (CEF) National Challenge during the National Challenge Dinner and Award Ceremony in Houston, TX.

The National Challenge is CEF’s flagship STEM competition, engaging middle school students in real-world problem solving. This year’s finalists addressed the theme, “You Be the Solution—develop a sustainable solution to a local natural hazard that ensures community safety.” Their innovative solutions included wildfire prevention, floodwater protection, sustainable energy storage, wastewater management, and water damage prevention—critical challenges that communities worldwide are facing today.

As sponsors of the Industry Appreciation Reception, Women in Chemicals remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting initiatives that build inclusive pipelines and access for future innovators in STEM.

By showing up, sharing stories, and celebrating success, we continue to shape a more diverse, empowered chemical industry for generations to come.

For information about our education initiatives, visit https://www.womeninchemicals.com/careers-in-chemicals or contact us at info@womeninchemicals.com to learn more.

Pictured: Christine Grybos, Vera-Maria Pitot, Caroline Thomas, Elizabeth Kincheloe, Amber Thichangthong

The Biocharge Team from Virginia, recipients of the second place award share their research and project with Vera-Maria Pitot and Caroline Thomas.

Pictured: Amber Thichangthong, Caroline Thomas, Christine Grybos, Vera-Maria Pitot, Elizabeth Kincheloe, Jackie, Deepak Parikh, Victoria Stolarski, Amanda Muilenburg

About Women in Chemicals
Women in Chemicals is dedicated to connecting and empower women in the chemical industry through networking, professional development and career support. For companies and organizations interested in expanding our impact, contact us at info@womeninchemicals.com.

About Chemical Education Foundation
The Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing science education—particularly chemistry—for students in grades K–8 across the United States.

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