We were pleased to host Dr. Bridgett Rakestraw, Project Lead/Formulator at CPI Fluid Engineering in Midland, Michigan as our July seminar speaker. Dr. Rakestraw shared her personal career journey and the role that ACS's Project SEED had in starting her on the road to a rewarding career in chemistry, as well as the importance of giving back to the community. Bridgett attributed her success in chemistry to three recurring themes:
- Perseverance - as her grandmother* said, "If you start something, you've gotta finish it!"
- Representation - the importance of having mentors and role models that look like you
- Networking...networking, networking!
The second portion of Dr. Rakestraw's presentation was a review of lubricants used in automotive air conditioning systems and how changes in government regulation of refrigerants has driven innovation in the lubricants industry. Thanks to Dr. Rakestraw for spending the evening with us and to all our seminar attendees!
*Ethel Johnson, one of the first professional black women wrestlers.
Did you miss this seminar or want to see it again? You can watch the recording below or check out our YouTube channel for this and other recordings!