Chemistry Week took place from the 7th to the 11th of November, with a theme that resonated deeply: “Chemistry Making the World a Better Place.” To mark the occasion, ChemTalent hosted an online roundtable discussion, bringing together industry leaders, educators, apprentices, recent graduates, and representatives from ChemTalent itself. The event spotlighted a series of topics essential to the chemical industry’s future and its broader impact on society.
The discussion unfolded over several crucial themes:
Different Career Paths: Panellists shared insights from their unique career journeys, illustrating the diverse paths that chemistry offers—from laboratory research to executive leadership. Each story underscored the range of fulfilling professions available within the chemical field.
Collaboration Between Industry and Education: Highlighting the power of synergy, speakers emphasized the importance of partnerships between industry and educational institutions. This collaboration, they noted, is crucial for driving innovation and nurturing the next generation of chemists.
Sustainability in the Chemistry Curriculum: As sustainability becomes increasingly urgent, the panel explored how current chemistry curriculums are adapting. They discussed how evolving educational content equips students to tackle future challenges, ensuring they are prepared to contribute to a more sustainable world.
Supporting Future STEM Careers: The panelists examined collective actions to support aspiring STEM professionals, discussing ways to create pathways for future chemists, scientists, and innovators to thrive.
Chemistry in Education vs. Real-World STEM Roles: Panellists engaged in a reflective conversation about the preparation provided by school chemistry and how it aligns with real-life STEM careers. They identified potential gaps and proposed ideas to better bridge these divides.
STEM Initiatives and Collaboration: Finally, the roundtable addressed the STEM initiatives led by various companies and underscored the need for collaboration. Together, participants aimed to promote a shared mission: harnessing the power of chemistry to make a positive, lasting impact on the world.
Chemistry Week 2023, marked by these in-depth discussions and reflections, underscored chemistry’s vital role in driving innovation and sustainability while inspiring the next wave of STEM professionals.
