Women In Chemicals (WIC) recently announced a leadership transition, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization. After serving as executive director for a year, Amber Thichangthong has stepped away from her role effective December 31, 2025. WIC’s board of directors announced the appointment of Katie Hess as the next executive director, effective January 1, 2026.

Thichangthong said, “Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege and honor to work with our Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and Leadership Team. We’ve made countless strides to highlight targeted education initiatives, promote inclusive workplace policies, and provide professional networks that support women at all career stages through our events and programs. More women are entering the chemical industry, advancing into senior technical and executive positions, and it has been an honor to help shape the strategic direction of our organization to support these leaders. Women in Chemicals is uniquely positioned to transform the chemical industry, and I am excited to pass the torch to Katie to lead Women in Chemicals in its next phase of growth.”

Hess is a passionate, resourceful leader with more than 20 years of executive experience across nonprofit and corporate organizations. She has been recognized with numerous leadership honors, including Current Young Professional Future 15, Spirit of Current, and Rotary International’s Heart and Soul Inspired Leader. Her nonprofit leadership experience includes serving as executive director of the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin, where she guided a successful statewide merger, and executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Wisconsin, leading the organization into the top six percent of highest-performing affiliates nationally. Under her leadership, the organization earned multiple national awards and ethics recognitions.

Hess has also served as senior philanthropy officer at Hospital Sisters Health Systems, worked in digital social health at Unite Us, and taught students with cognitive challenges at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. A longtime Rotarian and community leader, she currently serves as president of the Green Bay West Rotary Club and remains actively engaged on several nonprofit boards.

“I'm honored to step into the role of executive director and join an organization with a powerful mission that has built a strong reputation so quickly,” said Hess. “I look forward to working with our dedicated team and community partners to expand our reach, strengthen our mission, and build an even brighter future together.”

Amelia Greene, chairwoman of the board and co-founder of Women In Chemicals, shared her gratitude and confidence in the transition, saying “Amber’s leadership helped strengthen the foundation for Women In Chemicals and positioned the organization for long-term impact. We are incredibly thankful for her service and commitment to our mission. As we look ahead, Katie is the perfect next step for WIC. Her deep nonprofit leadership experience, proven ability to scale organizations, and passion for community-building align seamlessly with where Women In Chemicals is headed. We are excited for this next chapter.”

Women In Chemicals reports that the organization remains steadfast in its mission to support, connect, and advance women across the chemicals industry and looks forward to continued growth under Hess’s leadership. Learn more about Women In Chemicals at www.womeninchemicals.com.