By Ada Chan
In a male-dominated industry, the journey of a woman leader is often marked by unique challenges and rewarding milestones. Rising through the ranks in a STEM career has required persistence, passion and a commitment to innovation. My experiences offer valuable insights for other women striving to succeed in similar environments.
My fascination with science began in high school, where chemistry experiments—like watching sodium ignite in water—captivated me. This early interest led to a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, despite initially failing the subject in high school. I originally chose chemistry as my major because I aspired to work in a crime lab. My academic journey also included a master’s in criminal science, influenced by the show CSI.
However, I soon realized the field offers a wide range of career options. Beyond forensics, I discovered opportunities in aerospace materials, silicones, quality control, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and more. There are many different types of chemists, and not everyone wears a lab coat testing or developing new products. Some chemists focus on process quality and improvements, while others concentrate on environmental protection, safety and compliance. Additionally, there are chemists who specialize in analytics, focusing on data collection and analysis. The possibilities in this field are truly endless.
I soon realized that my true passion lay in innovation rather than criminal investigations, steering me towards the pharmaceutical and medical device industry. Here, I discovered the versatile and biocompatible properties of silicone, which eventually led me to Wacker Chemical Company.
As the Silmix California site leader, my roles are diverse. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is engaging with the Chino Valley community and collaborating with customers on innovative products. These responsibilities fulfill my passion for innovation and provide a sense of mission and purpose. I am fortunate to lead a team that shares my commitment to pushing boundaries and finding creative solutions to complex problems.
My journey was fraught with challenges. Ironically, chemistry was the only subject I ever failed in high school, which made my subsequent degree in chemistry from UCLA an arduous yet rewarding accomplishment. Early in my career, every step was challenging—landing my first job, finding a workplace where I felt I belonged and navigating a corporate culture that often felt unwelcoming. Persistence and resilience were key. Over time, I gained the experience and confidence to drive change and create opportunities for others.
Working in a male-dominated industry, I often felt the need to be significantly better than my male counterparts to gain recognition. Research supports this: a Hewlett Packard report found that men apply for jobs when they meet 60% of the qualifications, while women apply only if they meet 100%. Self-doubt is a common barrier for many women. A National Bureau of Economic Research paper revealed that women consistently rate their performance lower than men, despite having similar scores.
Reflecting on these experiences, I’ve developed a few strategies that have helped me succeed and can assist other women navigating similar journeys:
- Eliminate self-doubt: There are enough external doubts about your abilities; don’t add to them.
- Embrace self-promotion: It’s essential for career advancement, whether in job applications, performance reviews or networking.
- Apply broadly: Don’t wait to meet 100% of the qualifications. Believe in your potential and take risks.
Implementing these strategies has not only propelled my career forward but has also inspired me to support others in their journeys. This leads me to my role as a mentor—a responsibility I take seriously and find immensely rewarding.
I help my team set and achieve career goals. I also provide feedback and resources, and regularly check in to hold them accountable. Seeing my past team members still seeking my advice and watching their careers grow is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. Additionally, I strive to cultivate an environment where open communication and continuous learning are encouraged, fostering both professional and personal growth.
Looking ahead, I am excited to serve on the board of directors at the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce. This role will deepen my connection with the local community, business leaders and politicians; offering a valuable opportunity to give back. Through this role, I aim to bridge the gap between industry and community, ensuring that our innovations positively impact the lives of those around us.
Wacker has been instrumental in fostering diversity within its workforce, recently establishing a DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) council to promote these values. This initiative is crucial for ensuring diverse perspectives are welcomed and integrated into our work culture. It is heartening to see a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion, and I am proud to be part of a company that values these principles.
My journey has been one of growth, innovation and community engagement. As a woman leader in science and a passionate advocate for diversity, I am committed to driving change and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. My story is a testament to the power of persistence, self-belief and the endless possibilities that come with embracing science and innovation. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire other women to pursue their passions and break through the barriers that stand in their way.
Ada Chan is the site leader at Wacker Chemical Company’s Chino, California location. Her career journey, fueled by a fascination with science from an early age, has seen her transition from the pharmaceutical and medical device industry to her current role in specialty chemicals at Wacker.
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