Central Washington University hosted Chem-Possible, an annual networking event organized by the Chemistry Department, on April 27. The event brought together students and representatives from 12 businesses and government agencies to explore a range of career opportunities available to those with chemistry degrees.
The purpose of Chem-Possible is to help students learn about different paths they can take after graduation. Organizers say that the event is not a job fair but instead focuses on exposing students to possibilities in science-related fields. “That’s not our goal,” said Chemistry Department administrative assistant Lisa Stowe, who chairs the committee that coordinates three events every year. “This is more about helping students become aware of what’s out there, getting them comfortable with the idea that they can go up to a stranger and start talking about chemistry.”
Chem-Possible has grown each year since it began in 2023. This year, it was moved into a larger space due to increased interest from industry partners such as the Washington Department of Agriculture, Tree Top, Kittitas Valley Healthcare, John I. Haas, Yakima Chief Hops, and others. The Allen Institute, Pfizer, Hopsteiner, Pac Aero, Navarro-ATL laboratory, the Washington Department of Ecology, South Platte Renew, and CWU’s own graduate program also participated.
Department Chair Tim Sorey said he regularly hears from students who want guidance on how their scientific training can be used after graduation. “We need people to know about the many possibilities there are,” Sorey said. “It’s not about offering a job or an internship; what’s more important for our students is to know where they can put their science to work. How does their chemistry degree interface with the real world?”
Alumni play an important role in Chem-Possible’s success by returning as employer representatives and sharing their experiences with current students. This year’s alumni participants included Caleb Mortensen (‘20), Jared Fraychineaud (’08), and Sara Rybka Grabenhorst (’09). Sorey said these former students are eager to give back: “These are people who love to imagine and create and teach… These former students had a great experience at CWU, and they want to come back and tell people ‘did you know you can use your degree and do this?’”
Organizers report positive feedback from both attendees and industry partners alike. Stowe said: “The word is starting to get around that this is a worthwhile event… The ones who have attended always tell us ‘I’m so glad we did this.’” Plans are already underway for next year’s Chem-Possible as organizers continue building connections across Central Washington.