News
What lies behind the analyses, equipment, and processes that enable the advancement of the chemical industry? This was one of the questions answered by 40 first-year students from the Chemical Analyst and Industrial Chemistry programs at Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN) during a visit to SQM’s laboratories in Antofagasta, where they saw firsthand how the knowledge acquired in the classroom is transformed into real-world applications.
During the visit, students toured the facilities, learned about iodine-related processes, and explored analytical equipment and methodologies, connecting classroom knowledge with the reality of an industry that requires innovation, precision, and specialized expertise.
“We aim to create synergies with universities through their students, allowing them to learn about our facilities, the work we carry out, and to engage with professionals in their own field. These experiences help bring students closer to the workplace and show them the different opportunities available to those who pursue careers in chemistry”, said Rodrigo Mercado, SQM’s Head of Analytical Development.
For the students, the visit was an opportunity for learning and inspiration. “It was a great experience, with very interesting equipment from different areas. Seeing the work carried out in the laboratory firsthand was motivating, because it is the kind of work we will do once we complete our degrees”, said one of the participating students.
This experience reflects the value of collaboration between academia and industry in promoting learning and supporting the development of new generations of professionals.
