Sunday March 29, 2026
08:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Registration
05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Welcome Reception
Monday March 30, 2026
07:30 AM - 08:00 AM
Breakfast
07:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Registration
08:00 AM - 09:50 AM
Welcome and Introductory Remarks
Chet Thompson, AFPM President and CEO

2026 Petrochemical Heritage Award Presentation

The Petrochemical Heritage Honoree recognizes those whose contributions to public understanding are noteworthy, who have displayed significant entrepreneurship in the petrochemical profession or industry, and who have been active in philanthropic and/or communal affairs. This year’s honoree is Bhavesh V. (Bob) Patel, retired CEO of LyondellBasell Industries.

Speakers
09:50 AM - 11:00 AM
Hear from industry leaders in the Petrochemical sector as they reflect on the past and look forward to future. C-suite executives will discuss a wide range of issues and how they are approaching challenges and opportunities at their companies. Panelist would be C-suite level, and this session would moderated by AFPM president and CEO.
11:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Invitation Only

This is a formal meeting of the AFPM petrochemical committee open to invited guests. Luncheon attendees are provided updates on current items of interest and briefings from preeminent executives on the latest topics impacting the petrochemical industry.
02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Understand how emerging regulations and policy shifts are reshaping the industry’s operating environment and strategic priorities. This panel would include experts on global policy from differing regions discussing how those policies impact business.
03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

Industry leaders dissect the global trade dynamics and supply chain disruptions shaping the petrochemical sector, offering insights into resilience and strategic adaptation. This panel would include experts on trade and supply chain issues focusing on how the petrochemical industry is adapting to changes in global trade dynamics.

04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Explore the evolving landscape of the petrochemical workforce, including talent development, generational shifts, and the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing industry. This would include workforce experts discussing how the petrochemical industry is approaching the future of our workforce.
Tuesday March 31, 2026
07:30 AM - 08:00 AM
Breakfast
07:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Registration
08:00 AM - 10:30 AM

This session provides a forward look at shifting petrochemical fundamentals, from evolving U.S. feedstock supply and changing fuel demand to the industry's position in the global olefins cycle. Speakers will highlight how companies are navigating a challenging margin environment while preparing for longer‑term structural changes in energy and capacity. The discussion also explores how policy, trade dynamics, and regional competition are reshaping aromatics markets. Together, the presentations outline the trends and uncertainties that will shape competitiveness across the value chain in the years ahead.

 

Chemical Market Analytics will provide the essential signposts and identify the different routes available to stakeholders, flagging critical hazard signs to determine which path makes the most sense for their business through this difficult landscape. Once through the immediate hazards, we will follow with a strategic outlook on the "world of tomorrow."

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Understand needed action to retain top talent and create visible leadership succession pathways to transform the industry’s next 50 years. This panel will highlight the barriers that still slow or derail advancement, as well as the opportunities to empower the next generation of leaders. 

11:30 AM - 02:00 PM

An Exclusive Conversation with President George W. Bush. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on democracy, freedom, and today’s global landscape. Drawing on his unique experiences as a world leader, President Bush will share insights from his eight years in the Oval Office, the global challenges facing in the 21st century and the power of freedom.

Tickets must be purchased by March 11. Due to security protocols, the name of the ticket holder cannot be changed after this date. Tickets are non‑transferable, and may not be reassigned to another attendee if the original ticket holder can no longer participate.

 

Note:
All luncheon attendees must be registered for IPC and have their badge with them at the time of the session. No large bags, backpacks, large event bags, briefcases, laptop bags, suitcases or coats will be permitted at the event. All parts of this special conversation are closed to the press with no personal photography, note taking or recording being permitted.

Speakers