June 2025 marked the kickoff of CF Industries’ 2nd FOSSI Career Exploration Week. Eight FOSSI scholars – Amir Capps, Dillon Hudson, Jayla Hunter, Travis Missick, Caleb Morris, Christopher Porter, and Malakai Webb – traveled to the company’s corporate headquarters in Northbrook, Illinois, for a week packed with networking, learning, and fun.
The scholars started their journey with lively coffee chats in CF’s Social Hub, followed by introductory sessions and a guided tour of the Northbrook office.
Tours, coffee chats, and hands-on learning
Throughout the week, they received company overviews led by Human Resources and business leaders across EHS, DF, Sales & Supply Chain, and Product Management. The program included an in-depth session on environment, health, safety and quality, deepening their understanding of CF’s dedication to safety and operational excellence. Coffee chats with CF professionals offered insights into STEM careers, while safety training prepared students for their hands-on visit to the Seneca Distribution Facility, where they gained practical insights into the company’s real-world operations.
Beyond the corporate experience, scholars enjoyed a rewarding volunteer opportunity with Sara’s Circle, which supports homeless women, and sampled Chicago’s finest, including Lou Malnati’s legendary deep dish pizza to cheering at a Chicago Cubs baseball game.
Enthusiastic FOSSI scholars reflect on the week
Chris Porter captured the experience perfectly: “The week was nothing short of incredible and the experience left a lasting impression on me both professionally and personally. We were welcomed by passionate professionals who shared not only their career journeys but also their dedication to mentorship, inclusion, and future talent. We witnessed engineering excellence and operational precision in action. Thank you, CF Industries and the FOSSI Program, for investing in us and for reminding me why I chose engineering in the first place—to build, to serve, and to lead.”
Micah Atkins echoed this sentiment: “It’s an honor to be part of these wonderful opportunities that are so enlightening and impactful to my college experience and future career.”
As the week wrapped up, Aaron Deal, Senior Talent Management Analyst, reflected, “It was a pleasure working with the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) students. Their energy, curiosity, and professionalism were truly inspiring. The future of STEM is in great hands!”
CF Industries gives their scholars the spotlight
CF Industries gave the scholars the chance to share their stories on camera. From their role models to their love of engineering, these videos highlight the curiosity, drive, and dedication that will carry them into successful STEM careers.
Watch the videos below to hear from the scholars about what inspires them, the experiences shaping their journeys, and their passion for STEM.
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