#MeetTheTeam: Vera Popova-Gueorguieva

At WACKER, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. Today, we are excited to spotlight one of our dedicated team members, Vera Popova-Gueorguieva, whose journey and contributions exemplify the spirit and culture of WACKER.

Journey at WACKER

Vera joined WACKER seven years ago as a Scientist II. Over the years, she has been instrumental in various projects supporting our SILICONES and BIOSOLUTIONS business teams. Her work includes developing WACKER's first water-compatible elastomer gels for personal care, silicone-based defoamers for Oil & Gas applications, and thermal interface materials for e-mobility solutions.

Reflecting on her journey, Vera shares, "Working for WACKER has been a very enjoyable, happy, and rewarding journey for me so far. I have been working on projects that develop innovative products/ideas in various industries, collaborating with smart, open-minded, and highly detail-oriented colleagues."

A Passion for Chemistry

Vera's passion for chemistry began early in her life in Bulgaria, where she discovered her love for the subject in middle school. Encouraged by her chemistry teacher, she pursued a career as a chemical engineer. Vera earned her Master’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Chemical Technologies and Metallurgy in Sofia, Bulgaria, and later, after moving to the US, she earned a second Master’s degree in chemistry from Eastern Michigan University.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

When asked which of WACKER’s values or goals resonate most with her, Vera highlights the company's unwavering dedication to sustainability and innovation. "What really resonates with me is WACKER’s commitment to sustainability - to supply environmentally friendly products and boost energy efficiency and promote renewables," she says. Vera also appreciates that WACKER invests heavily in research and development, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of technological advancements, developing cutting-edge solutions that meet the highest standards. Additionally, WACKER's proactive approach to capacity expansion to meet strong customer demand demonstrates a forward-thinking mindset. Vera also values the company's focus on to diversity and equality, which aligns well with her personal beliefs. She is particularly proud that around 80% of WACKER’s portfolio focuses on specialties, allowing R&D scientists to be on the front line, providing custom-tailored, novel solutions and products for customers.

Memorable Milestones

One of the most significant milestones in Vera's career at WACKER was the commercialization of BELSIL? REG 1103 B, the company's first hydrophilic elastomer gel. "The successful development and commercialization was a result of a collaboration between the R&D team in the USA and Germany," Vera recalls. She fondly remembers her visit to the WACKER plant in Burghausen and the Consortium in Munich, Germany, where she worked on pilot-plant trials and scale-up preparations.

WACKER’s Culture

Vera describes WACKER’s culture as one that promotes equality, diversity, and opportunity for every employee. "The company provides opportunity for all, gives every individual the chance to achieve their potential, free from prejudice and discrimination," she says. Vera values the diverse R&D team at WACKER, where colleagues from various countries and backgrounds feel encouraged to share their cultures and traditions.

Support and Community

Vera has experienced a strong sense of community at WACKER firsthand. "When I lost my parents, the R&D team helped me to go through these difficult moments. I felt so much love, support, and encouragement from my team and I will never forget their kindness," she shares.

Looking Forward

Vera is excited about the future and looks forward to working on projects that focus on sustainability and energy preservation. She hopes to see more of her projects advancing from the R&D phase towards commercialization. "I love my job and I am proud to be WACKER," she says.

Career Advice and Personal Goal

Vera's parents gave her the best career advice: "Believe in yourself, smile, stay positive and you will be able to achieve anything you want." She also follows an old Bulgarian saying: "Kind words and a smile will open even the most secure lock."

As a passionate soccer fan, one thing on Vera's bucket list for 2024 is to attend a live game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.