Understanding & Adapting to Changes in Federal Policy & Industry Landscapes
The 2025 AIChE Annual Meeting is the premier forum to hear from experts in industry, academia, and government on how these changes impact their organizations, operations, and career paths. Join in direct discussion with Chemical Engineering leaders to gain the insights and tools to chart your course to success through times of uncertainty.
Don't miss your opportunity to connect at these sessions and more at the 2025 AIChE Annual Meeting.
Monday, November 3, 2025
Monday, November 3, 11:00AM-12:20PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 302
This special MPC session will feature an in-depth success story from Ely Lilly on their CMC development and commercialization of tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP1 receptor agonist approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Three speakers will describe the strategy, implementation, and the new manufacturing facility developed.
This case study is expected to have broad appeal to ChE’s beyond the synthetic peptide space given the way the synthesis process and control strategies were developed, the new facility designed to execute the process, and the topical nature of these emerging peptide therapies.
Monday, November 3, 3:30PM-5:30PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 302
How are the sweeping policy and organizational changes under the U.S. Federal government affecting chemical engineers?
What are the real impacts, positive and negative, experienced in our industrial, academic, and governmental roles? In our organizations? In our career paths?
How should AIChE be engaged in advocacy for our members and the profession?
This year has heralded sweeping U.S. Federal changes in environmental regulation, agency organization, grant funding and administration, programming strategies, and foreign trade management.
During this Town Hall, the Public Affairs and Information Committee will provide a brief overview on AIChE our recent interactions on Federal issues. Then we will conduct a facilitated discussion forum to learn about the diverse perspectives and experiences of our members. This is an opportunity for an interactive discussion so that AIChE can best serve our members, the profession, and society.
Monday, November 3, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 311
David Parrillo, from Dow Chemical will receive the 2025 Management Award and present a Keynote Address on the theme of Engineering Education. The session will also include several additional featured speakers as well as a panel of leading experts who will add their own insights on this critical issue.
Student Debt in the US is $1.8 Trillion Dollars and grows annually nearly 3.0%. Since 1980, college tuitions increased by more than twice the rate of the CPI index. 23% of bachelor's degrees have a negative return on the investment made. The average overhead rate for grants is $0.60 for every $1.0 dollar given. The future employers of students are important stakeholders in the education of students, but are often a distant thought of most college administrators. Engineering education is not immune to these factors as it lives within a system plagued by the same diseases. Come to a session that will start to reimagine engineering education through the lens of experiential learning.
Monday, November 3, 12:30PM-3:00PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 311
Don't miss this session on various types of industry and academia collaborations or partnerships from experts.
Monday, November 3, 12:30PM-3:00PM EST | Sheraton Boston, The Fens (5th Floor)
First of two sessions on initiatives at the National Science Foundation (NSF). This session will feature talks by the NSF Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems (CBET) Division Director. We will have a former NSF CBET program director talk about proposal submission strategies. Everyone is welcome to attend. NSF if an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense…” NSF is the funding source for approximately 24 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America’s colleges and universities.
Monday, November 3, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Sheraton Boston, The Fens (5th Floor)
Second of two sessions on initiatives at the National Science Foundation (NSF). This session will feature talks by the NSF Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems (CBET) program directors on topics including opportunities for computational research, infrastructure investment, special initiatives, CAREER and ERI proposal considerations, and Tips on navigating NSF and communicating with program directors. Everyone is welcome to attend. NSF if an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense…” NSF is the funding source for approximately 24 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America’s colleges and universities.
Monday, November 3, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 313
Speakers will present on current issues in law relating to practicing chemical engineers. Topics may include, for examples, issues relating to intellectual property, environmental, or regulatory topics. The speakers might address obtaining and protecting patents, what kinds of intellectual property offers the best protection for various types of technology, and how to identify and safeguard valuable trade secrets. The speakers may also address environmental, regulatory and expert testimony topics as they relate to laws and regulations in the United States.
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Tuesday, November 4, 8:00AM-10:30AM EST | Sheraton Boston, The Fens (5th Floor)
Tuesday, November 4, 8:00AM-10:30AM EST | Sheraton Boston, Riverway (5th Floor)
This session delves into the transformative role of experiential learning in chemical engineering education. By integrating hands-on projects, research challenges, and more, educators are reshaping traditional curricula to better prepare students for real-world challenges.
Tuesday, November 4, 8:00AM-10:30AM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 305
You have completed your education, now what? Where do you begin when seeking a job? This session will decode the jargon used in job searches and hiring. We’ll also debunk the different areas of job functions that you could explore and how companies name positions. Career paths in both academia and industry will be covered. Practical tips will be disclosed on topics such as where to find job postings, how to write a CV or resume, whether cover letters are still expected, how to prepare for multiple rounds of interviews, and how to negotiate a job offer. The panel discussion will also cover how to find jobs that match your skills and interests, and how to network with recruiters in your field. Hear from early career faculty in addition to engineers who aid in reviewing candidates at their companies during this inspiring panel to arm you with the confidence to succeed during your job search.
Tuesday, November 4, 11:00AM-12:20PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 302
Chemical processes have evolved, and the workforce has transformed significantly, but the fundamentals of higher education have largely remained the same. Known as experiential learning, some universities are integrating co-op programs into their curricula to help students connect classroom knowledge to real-world applications. Co-op programs and other experiential learning approaches will be discussed by faculty who support these initiatives, as well as by industry representatives who hire co-op students.
Tuesday, November 4, 12:30PM-3:00PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 311
Tuesday, November 4, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 311
Upskilling with emerging technologies is vital for professional growth in a rapidly evolving world. This session explores future-shaping fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, sustainability, and process safety, highlighting their transformative impact on industries such as healthcare and finance. Participants will gain actionable strategies, including continuous learning through courses, networking for insights, hands-on experience via projects, and mentorship for career guidance. The session aims to empower professionals with practical tools and knowledge to adapt and thrive in technology-driven workplaces, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient in the face of change.
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Wednesday, November 5, 8:00AM-10:30AM EST | Hynes Convention Center, 303
In this session, we will continue to expand on our Division's knowledge and participation in funding calls, industry partnerships, and other activities to support the growth of this field. The session is geared toward faculty members at all levels, trainees considering academic pathways, and those interested in industry-academia partnerships.
Wednesday, November 5, 8:00AM-10:30AM EST | Sheraton Boston, Back Bay Ballroom B (2nd Floor)
This session will delve into the intersection of entrepreneurship and chemical engineering and technology. Participants will hear from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs who will share their insights on identifying and commercializing novel technological innovations in the chemical industry. Topics may include market analysis, product development, intellectual property, funding, and building a successful team. The session will provide a platform for attendees to network with peers and exchange ideas, as well as a space for lively discussion and debate on the current challenges and opportunities in the field of chemical entrepreneurship. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur, a start-up founder, or simply interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship and chemical engineering, this session is sure to be both informative and inspiring.
Wednesday, November 5, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Sheraton Boston, Independence Ballroom West (2nd Floor)
Education and Accreditation Committee members will discuss recent updates and insights regarding ABET accreditation. Topics include: program preparation, program evaluator preparation, the visit schedule, post-visit interactions, common criterion issues during a visit, recent changes to accreditation, and accreditation resources. This session is particularly beneficial for faculty members of programs undergoing ABET accreditation during the next several years and for those interested in becoming program evaluators.
Wednesday, November 5, 3:30PM-6:00PM EST | Sheraton Boston, Liberty Ballroom C (2nd Floor)
This session will explore incorporating hands-on experiences and real-world challenges into education and training to boost technical abilities. Authors will share examples and tips on how experiential learning can improve technical skills and encourage creativity.
