As part of Infineum’s involvement in the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI), Infineum recently hosted two FOSSI scholars for a visit of our Bayway plant.

A nationwide initiative in the United States aimed at supporting underrepresented groups of STEM professionals, over seventy chemical manufacturers and industry stakeholders are FOSSI sponsors. Besides eliminating financial barriers to a STEM education, FOSSI scholars are also offered internship and leadership development opportunities with programme sponsors.

Five FOSSI scholars will be sponsored by Infineum, aligning with our Sustainability ambition of delivering a positive impact in the communities where we operate, and our aim to contribute to the pipeline of STEM talent.

Infineum was pleased to host FOSSI scholars Chiedu Ogala and Vonyea Blackwood at our Bayway plant, where they were taken on a tour to understand more about the plant’s operations and engaged with colleagues from our Bayway and Linden sites.

Participating colleagues in the visit included Alex Proctor, Site Manager, and William Moore, Project Manager, who also served as mentors to the FOSSI scholars.

Alex says “I did not have an opportunity to be professionally mentored during my own academic journey, so this experience was particularly fulfilling for me. Through Infineum’s support of FOSSI, I have the privilege of mentoring a college freshman, as we work together to tackle college life, well-being, future career pathways and more. I look forward to continuing helping these scholars reach their full potential and I am proud of Infineum’s support of future generations of STEM talent.”

William adds “Mentoring one of the first FOSSI scholars in Infineum’s history over the past ten months is an honour. It was extremely rewarding to see the scholar’s keen interest in Infineum’s culture and role in the energy transition as well as showing him how academic theory meets the practical business world during his visits to our sites. Besides inspiring more young people to take on STEM careers, Infineum also benefits from learning what this upcoming generation of professionals is looking for in an employer.”

After a day of engagements at the Bayway plant, the FOSSI scholars expressed their thoughts on the visit which left an impression, and their experience being mentored by Infineum colleagues:

Chiedu Ogala: “Being mentored by Infineum has been an invaluable experience for my freshman year. I am thankful for my mentor, Will, whose guidance has helped me navigate both college and career planning. I also enjoyed visiting the Bayway plant, which gave me a firsthand look at how innovative products are being manufactured.”

Vonyea Blackwood: “My mentor, Alex, provided valuable advice that not only benefited my academic goals but also positively impacted my mental well-being. He also took time to arrange opportunities for me to connect with Infineum colleagues, which offered me diverse perspectives and enhanced my learning. I am extremely grateful for this enriching experience!”

Infineum looks forward to welcoming two additional FOSSI scholars later this year and continuing our efforts in developing the next generation of STEM talent.

For more information on our sustainability initiatives, please visit: https://www.infineum.com/sustainability/.