MIT's 2014 commencement ceremony will be addressed by DuPont's CEO, Ellen Kullman.
Ellen Kullman's Journey to the Top of DuPont
Ellen Kullman, a renowned business executive, made history as the first female CEO of DuPont, one of the world's largest chemical companies. Founded in 1802, DuPont is a household name, manufacturing a multitude of products that have become staples in our daily lives.
Kullman's journey with DuPont began in 1988, after stints at Westinghouse and General Electric. She joined DuPont as a marketing manager and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the CEO in 2009.
Under Kullman's leadership, DuPont has remained committed to its longstanding reputation for applying science to solve global challenges. The company introduces thousands of new products and patent applications every year, driving innovation and improvement across various sectors.
One of Kullman's key achievements as CEO was her strategic approach to global growth. She steered DuPont through dynamic growth strategies, reflecting a strong long-term growth outlook for the company.
Kullman was also a vocal advocate for gender parity and pay equity. She spoke publicly about the challenges women face in the workplace and emphasized the importance of board-level commitment to compensation fairness.
Beyond the chemical industry, Kullman's leadership has earned her recognition in broader business leadership conversations. She is a member of the Business Council and the executive committee of SCI-America, promoting market-driven science as a means of propelling innovation.
Kullman's influence extends beyond DuPont. She serves on the boards of Tufts University and its School of Engineering, where she earned her bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 1978 and her master's degree in management in 1983. She is also the chair of the U.S.-China Business Council and a member of the board of directors of United Technologies Corp.
In addition, Kullman co-chairs the National Academy of Engineering's Committee on Changing the Conversation: From Research to Action. She is also a member of Change the Equation, a coalition of CEOs committed to improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning for pre-K to 12 students in the U.S.
On June 6, 2023, Kullman will deliver the address at MIT's 148th Commencement exercises, further cementing her place as a leader in the world of business and academia. DuPont, under Kullman's guidance, continues to use science to improve the world, as MIT President L. Rafael Reif stated.
In 2002, Kullman became group vice president of DuPont Safety & Protection, and in 2006, she was named DuPont's executive vice president, with responsibility for three business platforms and several functions, including marketing and sales.
Kullman's tenure at DuPont has been marked by a collaborative approach to development. She serves a wide range of markets including agriculture, food, electronics, solar energy, construction, and transportation.
Throughout her career, Ellen Kullman has proven herself to be a trailblazer for women executives and a driving force behind DuPont's continued success and commitment to innovation.
- Ellen Kullman, a DuPont CEO, championed innovation by introducing thousands of new products and patent applications annually across various sectors, such as agriculture, food, electronics, solar energy, construction, and transportation.
- Kullman, an undergraduate and graduate from Tufts University's School of Engineering, serves on the boards of the university and its engineering school.
- To promote market-driven science and improve STEM learning, Kullman is a member of SCI-America and Change the Equation, a coalition of CEOs dedicated to improving education and self-development.
- As a public figure, Kullman spoke out about gender parity and pay equity, emphasizing the importance of board-level commitment to compensation fairness.
- In the realm of environmental responsibility, DuPont, under Kullman's leadership, continues to apply science for global challenges, including the improvement of energy efficiency and the reduction of environmental impact.
- Kullman's efforts to push for innovation and growth have earned her recognition not only in the business world but also in academia, with an upcoming address at MIT's Commencement exercises in 2023.
- The story of Ellen Kullman's journey in business and specific successes at DuPont serves as an inspiration for students and professionals alike, demonstrating the potential for bright futures in education, self-development, and the world of technology.
- As a member of the National Academy of Engineering's Committee, Kullman co-chairs the effort to "Change the Conversation: From Research to Action," addressing the need for action on critical issues in the field of engineering.
