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My Greatest Accomplishment

From being the first in my family to pursue higher education to co-founding Aepnus, a company at the forefront of clean-tech innovation, my journey has been both humbling and inspiring. As the CTO, I’ve had the opportunity to steer our team’s innovative efforts in recycling battery chemical waste into valuable reagents, a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability. It’s a privilege to have raised over $10 million from climate-focused venture capitalists and to have earned trust and support from federal and state agencies. Yet, it’s the daily endeavor of competing and collaborating with incredibly talented individuals in the Bay Area that continually inspires and grounds me. This journey, interwoven with personal and professional milestones, is what I cherish as my greatest accomplishment.

How Drexel Helped Me

Drexel University was instrumental in my growth, providing access to one of the world’s premier materials and electrochemical research laboratories. Surrounded by state-of-the-art equipment and unparalleled expertise from my PhD advisers and peers, I delved deep into groundbreaking research. The diverse and collaborative research environment at Drexel was a crucible for innovation, enriching my experience with perspectives from across the globe. This unique setting enabled me to publish my work in leading scientific journals, a milestone that laid the foundation for my future endeavors. Beyond the academic sphere, living in Philadelphia was a vibrant chapter of my life. The city’s dynamic food scene and rich tapestry of arts cultivated a sense of exploration and appreciation for diverse cultures, profoundly shaping my personal and professional perspectives.

Where I Hope to Be in Five Years

Over the next five years, I am committed to guiding Aepnus Technology toward significant growth and impactful success in the clean-tech industry. Our mission to reduce CO2eq emissions and revolutionize the way chemicals are manufactured is not just a professional goal, but a step towards a sustainable future. By promoting the concept of a circular battery chemicals industry, Aepnus aspires to be at the forefront of environmental change. Alongside this, I plan to continuously evolve in the realm of industrial electrochemical technology. As we navigate through the new age of electrochemistry, enhancing my technical skills and expanding my professional network remains a key focus. The ability to produce chemicals using electricity is not only a valuable skill in my career but also a crucial aspect of advancing sustainable technology.

How I Pay It Forward

My commitment to paying it forward is deeply intertwined with my work at Aepnus Technology and my personal journey as a scholar. By pioneering sustainable solutions in the chemical industry, I strive to contribute positively to our environment and society. This extends beyond professional achievements; it’s about inspiring and guiding the next generation of innovators and thinkers. I actively engage with young entrepreneurs and students, especially those interested in clean-tech and sustainability, sharing insights and lessons from my own experiences. Additionally, I seek to foster a culture of continuous learning and environmental consciousness within my professional network and community. By championing the values of innovation, responsibility, and collaboration, I aim to create ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the immediate scope of my work.