Katie Ellet

Katie Ellet graduated from Michigan Tech in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and went on to earn a master’s in chemical engineering from the University of Houston in 1999.

At Tech, Ellet was active in student leadership and service. She served on Undergraduate Student Government, chairing the service committee, and led the Society of Women Engineers’ (SWE) outreach committee. She also worked in the Summer Youth Program office. As a senior, Ellet received the Michigan Association of Governing Boards of State Universities Award for distinguished students at a recognition dinner in Lansing. 

“Tech provided a combination of leadership and technical development opportunities that established the foundation for my career path,” Ellet said. “Now, I mentor and help where I can, supporting students to attend Summer Youth Programs and highlighting Tech as an option.”

Ellet’s career spans more than 25 years across the chemical, energy, and industrial sectors. She began her working career at BASF Corporation through its Professional Development Program, where she held roles including R&D lab supervisor, production engineer, process optimization engineer, and environmental, health, and safety engineer. After BASF Corporation, Ellet held several senior leadership positions, including VP of Oilfield Solutions at SI Group, founder and CEO of EC Industrial Holdings, and president of H2E and Mobility–North America for Air Liquide. Today, she serves as CEO of ETCH, Inc., which specializes in delivering low-carbon materials by converting natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon.

Beyond her professional accomplishments—including being recognized as a 2024 Global Top 50 Women in Hydrogen—Ellet has remained committed to volunteer service. She has served on the philanthropy and outreach committee for the American Red Cross, chaired a local mutual aid organization, and has been a contributing member on several county commission boards. She also coached youth soccer for several years.

Reflecting on her time as a Husky and the impact Tech can have on a student, Ellet credits Michigan Tech for a fulfilling life and career.

“My high school chemistry teacher had me apply to Women in Engineering at MTU, as he thought it would be a good fit for me. Not only was it a great fit, but earning my degree from Tech was life-altering for someone from my background. The foundation that Tech provided has taken me around the world, opened doors for career and personal development, and created new routes for my own children that I couldn't have imagined. Thank you, MTU!”

Ellet will be inducted into Michigan Tech’s Presidential Council of Alumnae in November 2025.

Updated September 2025