Sep 16 2008
In nearly 40 years with the company, DuPont Fellow Vlodek Gabara has seen first-hand how innovation and the miracles of science can lead to success in the evolution of technological advances.
DuPont Fellow Chemist Vlodek Gabara recently spoke at an education forum sponsored by the MathScience Innovation Center in Richmond, Va.
Vlodek, a chemist at the Spruance site in Richmond, Va., recently spoke to a large audience of education professionals at a MathScience Innovation Center forum in Richmond.
Vlodek described the characteristics of successful innovators, shifts in thinking that have preceded advances in polymers and nanotechnology, and the types of educational experiences that promote innovation among students. "Three key ways of teaching science are linking science to everyday things, teaching the history and heroes in science and, explaining how we have invented things," Vlodek said.
Vlodek was among the pioneers in the development of DuPont™ Kevlar® and Nomex® for commercial use. Born in Poland, he began his DuPont career as a researcher. His main role today is to formulate technological options for the DuPont Advanced Fiber Systems, though he still is involved in some research work. In addition to recognition as a DuPont Fellow -- the highest title for the company's scientists -- Vlodek also received the DuPont Lavoisier Medal in 2005, the highest honor a scientist can receive in recognition of significant technical achievement.