BASF is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its TECH Academy – a weeklong educational and workforce development program designed to inspire students to learn more about technical and craft careers. Since launching at BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana site in 2015, the program has expanded to Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Wyandotte, Michigan. With more than 390 students participating in TECH Academy nationwide since 2015, this milestone marks significant progress in advancing BASF’s mission to introduce high school students to careers in manufacturing.

Held in partnership with local community colleges – including River Parishes Community College (RPCC) in Louisiana, Chattanooga State Community College in Tennessee, and Wayne County Community College in Michigan – TECH Academy offers students real-world experience and mentorship from industry professionals.

“TECH Academy provides local high school students with insights into career paths that allow them to thrive in various opportunities within our industry,” said Jerry Lebold, Senior Vice President and General Manager of BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana site. “The blend of classroom instruction and hands-on facility tours offers a powerful experience for students to learn about high-wage, high-demand jobs available in our community, as well as the innovation and technology that companies like BASF are employing to create a sustainable future for the next generation.”

In 2024, 65 students participated in the program, with 78 students participating in 2025. Looking ahead to 2026, BASF plans to expand TECH Academy to two additional locations, further demonstrating its commitment to developing the next generation of manufacturing and technical talent.

“For the past decade, BASF’s TECH Academy has provided high school students with a hands-on, eye-opening experience into the world of advanced manufacturing and energy careers,” said Quintin D. Taylor, Chancellor of River Parishes Community College. “This partnership exemplifies the power of industry and education working together to build a stronger future for Louisiana’s workforce. We are proud to celebrate 10 years of impact and look forward to the next generation of innovators who began their journey right here at RPCC.”

TECH Academy is part of BASF’s broader Science Education initiatives, which also include Kids’ Lab and partnerships with museums, science centers, and environmental organizations. Through these efforts, BASF aims to spark student interest in science, technology, engineering, the arts and math (STEAM).