In April, the BASF team welcomed FOSSI scholars—including Ford Blunt IV, Hedges Onye Franklin, Jeremiah Norris, Josiah Moore, Khlya Baker, Lyle Williams, and Xavier Jackson—along with fellow students and faculty from Prairie View A&M University, to their Freeport, Texas, facility for a day of learning and networking. Eighteen BASF employees also participated as volunteers and speakers throughout the event.
Scholars get an inside look at BASF and career opportunities
Senior Leader Adebayo Adekola kicked off the visit with a warm welcome and provided guests with an overview of BASF’s history and operations. His remarks were followed by a presentation on internship and full-time career opportunities available at the company.
After the presentation, the group boarded a bus for a guided tour of the chemical plant. There, they experienced a day in the life of an engineer and learned how various chemicals are produced—bringing classroom knowledge to life in a real-world setting.
BASF panelists share insights
To wrap up the tour, students participated in a panel discussion featuring BASF alumni and current 
members of the Technical Development Program and Leadership Development Program. The panelists shared their journeys as engineers and offered valuable advice on building a successful early career.
During the Q&A session, students asked thoughtful questions about the challenges engineers face and sought practical tips for navigating the transition from college to the workforce.
A lasting impression
As the day concluded, many students remarked on the positive atmosphere and supportive culture they observed at BASF. One student shared, “You can tell that this is a great environment to work in, as everyone is so friendly and seems to really enjoy coming to work.”
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