UMass-3M Diversity in STEM Seminar, Belma Erdogan-Haug, Henkel Adhesive Technologies, "Breaking Through: My Path from STEM Student to Corporate Leader""

Content

Belma Erdogan-Haug 
Head of Global AE & Digital Transformation
Industrials Business Unit
Henkel Corporation 

Hosts:  Sarah Perry and Bryan Coughlin (Polymer Science and Engineering)

Breaking Through: My Path from STEM Student to Corporate Leader

Choosing a career in STEM is both exciting and, at times, overwhelming - especially if you
are coming from underrepresented or first-generation backgrounds. As a woman leading
global technical teams, I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with
forging your own path in this field. At the same time, I have witnessed the power of diverse
perspectives in driving innovation, and I understand how critical it is to broaden the
conversation around what successin STEM truly looks like.
 

This talk is designed to look beyond the traditional academic route and spotlight the many
ways individuals can forge impactful careers in STEM—particularly within industry. By
sharing real-world journeys, including those that are nonlinear or unconventional, we’ll
explore how people have carved out meaningful roles, overcome barriers, and redefined
success on their own terms.
 

With a special emphasis on industry pathways, I will offer honest insights into how
mentorship, networks, and lived experiences have shaped my professional growth.
Attendees will gain practical guidance on transitioning from academia to the corporate
world and learn how identity can be a source of strength, not a barrier.
Whether you're exploring your next step after graduation or simply seeking inspiration, this
session is designed to offer practical advice, encouragement, and a reminder that your
unique background is a strength—not a limitation. You belong in STEM, and you have the
power to thrive in the corporate world.

Bio

Belma Erdogan-Haug is a strategic business leader and accomplished scientist
with a proven track record of driving innovation and growth at the intersection
of technology and global markets. With over 18 years of experience at 3M and
Henkel, she has led cross-functional, international teams in the development
and commercialization of advanced materials and technologies across industries
including consumer electronics, data and telecom, industrial, solar energy,
aerospace, and medical.

Belma holds a PhD in Chemistry from Georgia Institute of Technology and an
MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Following her postdoctoral
research at UMass Amherst, she has built a career distinguished by technical
depth, business acumen, and a collaborative leadership style. She is the inventor
of more than 20 patents and the author of 13 peer-reviewed scientific
publications.

A passionate advocate for equity in STEM, Belma actively mentors and coaches’
women and underrepresented minority students in science and engineering as
well as in career development. She serves on the Advisory Board for the Georgia
Tech College of Sciences and currently chairs the AIChE Management Division
Awards Committee.