The Brazoria County Petrochemical Council (BCPC) is excited to announce Dr. Chris Boleman as the keynote speaker for its upcoming Career Signing Day on April 22, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., at the Dow Academic Center at Brazosport College in Lake Jackson, TX.
Boleman’s exceptional leadership in education and industry make him ideal to inspire the high school seniors about to embark on life-changing careers in the petrochemical industry. A native Texan and graduate of Texas A&M University, Boleman brings a wealth of experience in workforce development, educational outreach, and leadership. 
Prior to being named the president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 2020, he served in various roles including as executive director of Agricultural Competitions and Exhibits and chief mission officer. Boleman has a deep understanding of what it takes to guide the next generation of leaders.
“Dr. Boleman’s commitment to education, youth development, and career readiness aligns perfectly with the mission of Career Signing Day,” said Aaron Ennis, BCPC Career Signing Day Chair and President/CEO of Brazosport Safety Council. “His experience will provide invaluable inspiration to our students as they transition into exciting, high-paying careers in the petrochemical industry.”
Boleman said he looks forward to sharing his experiences.
“One of our four pillars at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is education, and to have the honor of speaking with the next generation of leaders as they prepare for this chapter is an honor,” said Boleman. “Igniting their passion with encouragement and insight is everything we’ll discuss on April 22nd.”
Career Signing Day marks its seventh year of placing high school seniors in rewarding jobs in the petrochemical sector. This year, a record 252 students from 18 area high schools have completed a competitive application process and undergone interviews with contractor companies. Upon receiving job offers, the selected applicants will begin full-time careers in high-demand crafts such as welding, pipefitting, and construction—gaining both professional certification and on-the-job training while earning a salary.
In addition to celebrating the achievements of students, the event will also recognize the companies that are investing in the future of the region’s workforce. With over 988 interviews conducted between students and 42 contractor companies this year, Career Signing Day continues to strengthen the relationship between education and industry, providing critical pathways for future success.
About Career Signing Day
Career Signing Day is an annual event that connects high school seniors with the petrochemical industry by offering job placements in crafts such as welding, pipefitting, and construction. The event aims to fill the growing demand for skilled professionals in the region, providing students with the opportunity to begin their careers with full-time job offers, training, and certification pathways.
For more information about Career Signing Day, visit www.bcpc.org.
About the Brazoria County Petrochemical Council
The BCPC consists of more than 25 member companies producing thousands of raw materials and intermediate products used in everyday life, resulting in clean water and energy, safe food packaging, effective hygiene products, lifesaving medicine and medical equipment, advanced electronics, sustainable construction materials, affordable clothing and safe and fuel-efficient automotives
.
The annual economic output for the companies associated with the BCPC is $12+ billion. The total economic impact of the industry supported $24 billion in total spending.
Through its member companies, BCPC employs 12,259 full-time direct employees, 75% of them living in Brazoria County. For every job created directly by the industry, another 2.85 jobs are created, resulting in 39,995 indirect and induced jobs. Our employees contribute over 35,000 hours of volunteer service to the community each year.
The Brazoria County Petrochemical Council is committed to workforce development, industry collaboration, and expanding career opportunities in the petrochemical sector. Through initiatives like Career Signing Day, BCPC connects local students with high-demand careers that provide long-term stability and growth.
About the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $630 million to the youth of Texas and education. The 2026 Rodeo is scheduled for March 2 – March 22. The 2026 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, presented by Cotton Holdings, is scheduled for Feb. 26 – Feb. 28. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com, download the RODEOHOUSTON app and follow @RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.
