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<img alt="Three workers in their uniforms holding Mondelēz products" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31e02a0b-a0ff-4fb1-ab62-22a26a74866e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Workplace-Safety_Mondelez_071125_1.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="962" loading="lazy" />We believe in creating a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, and visitors across our locations. This commitment is reflected in our rigorous risk assessments, ongoing training programs, and adherence to global safety standards.

HIGHLIGHTS

<ul><li>Approximately 0.24 Total Incident Rate (TIR) (18)</li>
	<li>Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) (36)</li>
</ul>STRATEGIC APPROACH

Our commitment to health and safety is deeply rooted in our organization, with active support from our CEO and senior leadership team. This commitment extends to fostering an inclusive environment where employees, their representatives, and contractors are actively engaged in shaping our safety journey. We believe in meaningful consultation, so their valuable input drives continued improvement and strengthens our shared dedication to a healthy and safe workplace for everyone.

We are committed to addressing issues related to health, safety and the environment. Part of that effort involves engaging and empowering our colleagues to live safely, both inside and outside the workplace.

STRIVING TO ENSURE WORKPLACE SAFETY

Our ambition is to achieve an accident-free workplace. We aim to maintain safe practices, environments, and ways of working for everyone who interacts with Mondelēz International. Our safety guiding principles include creating a safe and healthy work environment for all our employees through a proactive approach that prioritizes exceeding applicable health and safety regulations, investing in our people and facilities, and fostering a strong safety culture.

Our comprehensive Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies, standards, and non-negotiable commitment to continued improvement help us to maintain a culture of safety and compliance throughout Mondelēz International. We implement rigorous risk assessments, utilize tools and metrics to track progress, invest in comprehensive training and communication, and conduct regular HSE assessments to evaluate our performance.

WORK, PLAY, LIVE, SAFE PROGRAM

Our "Work, Play, Live, Safe" program promotes a culture of safety for everyone on our sites, encompassing employees, contractors, full-time and part-time staff, and even visitors. We extend this commitment across our locations, including factories, distribution centers, tech centers, and other facilities. By providing guiding principles for everyday actions, we aim to provide safe practices, environments, and ways of working for everyone who interacts with Mondelēz International, including:

<ul><li>Nothing we do is worth getting hurt for.</li>
	<li>All injuries and occupational illnesses can, and must, be prevented.</li>
	<li>We will continually strive for zero incidents.</li>
	<li>Everyone is responsible for safety; leaders are accountable.</li>
	<li>Working safely is a condition of employment.</li>
</ul>BUILDING A CULTURE OF WORKPLACE SAFETY

<ul><li>Our commitment is to create a workplace where safety is paramount, reducing risks across four key areas:
	<ul><li>Occupational Health: Protecting our employees from long- term health issues related to their work environment.</li>
		<li>Personal Safety: Fostering a culture of safety by implementing safe work practices and standards that prioritize the well-being of every individual.</li>
		<li>Process Safety: Enhancing the design, management, and control of potentially hazardous processes within our operations.</li>
		<li>Vehicle Safety: Promoting safe driving practices and improving vehicle-related activities across all functions and operations.</li>
	</ul></li>
</ul>ACTION PLANS AND PROGRESS

WORKPLACE SAFETY PROGRESS

Mondelēz International is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of HSE performance across our global sites. Our commitment is reflected in the following key areas:

OUR INTENT

<ul><li>Compliance: We are committed to meeting or exceeding all applicable HSE regulations.</li>
	<li>Continuous Improvement: We strive to continuously improve our HSE footprint through investments in our people, processes, and facilities.</li>
	<li>Interdependent HSE Culture: We cultivate a culture of safety where everyone takes responsibility for their own well-being and the well-being of others. This culture is essential for achieving an accident and occupation illness-free work environment and for protecting our planet.</li>
</ul>OUR ACHIEVEMENT

Long-Term Impact: In 2024, our continued focus on leadership, capability building, and HSE assessments drove improvements across most safety performance indicators. We achieved a Total Incident Rate (TIR) of approximately 0.24 significantly below the global benchmark of 0.5.(18) Our Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) remained consistently low, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to workplace safety.

Long-Term Impact: Through dedicated efforts in safety culture and Total Safety initiatives, including emergency preparedness procedures, we have seen a reduction in Total Recordable Incidents across operations over the past 10 years.

OUR PRIORITIES FOR 2025

Despite our positive performance, seek continued improvement and are addressing the following areas in 2025:

High Severity Incidents: We are implementing solutions to further improve behaviors, controls, and capabilities across manufacturing and commercial operations to prevent future high severity incidents.

Priority Standards: We are intensifying our focus on closing high- risk gaps, enhancing protection and prevention systems to further strengthen our HSE performance.

M&amp;A Integration: We are investing in resourcing and capabilities to drive integration of Mondelēz International standards and work processes within recently acquired companies.

Commercial Safety: We are revising policies and standards to further enhance safety practices in our warehouses, offices, and vehicle fleet operations.

We remain dedicated to making a positive impact on the world and the communities where we do business, to provide a safe and sustainable future for all.

GOALS AND METRICS

WORKPLACE SAFETY GOAL 
Severity and Total Incident Rate (TIR): Continued focus to reduce Severity 1 safety incidents to zero

<table dir="ltr"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" rowspan="1">2024 PROGRESS</td>
		</tr><tr><td> </td>
			<td>2024</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Total Recordable Incidents (#) (36)</td>
			<td>297</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Lost Time Incidents (LTI) (#) (36)</td>
			<td>217</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Severity 1 Incidents (#) (36)</td>
			<td>9</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Total Incident Rate (TIR) (#) (18)</td>
			<td>0.24</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) (#) (36)</td>
			<td>0.86</td>
		</tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.mondelezinternational.com/assets/Snacking-Made-Right/SMR-Report/2024/2024-MDLZ-Snacking-Made-Right-ESG-Report.pdf" target="_blank">View the full 2024 Snacking Made Right Report. </a>

 

(18) 2024 reported information includes data from acquisitions such as Ricolino, Chipita, Clif bar and Give &amp; Go, which differs from previous years. We adjust our goals to better align with reporting requirements and industry best practice, and focus our Health &amp; Safety metrics on Severity (unchanged) and TIR (Total Incident Rate).

(36) 2024 reported information includes data from acquisitions such as Ricolino, Chipita, Clif bar and Give &amp; Go, which differs from previous years. We are transitioning to absolute indicator numbers in our disclosures to provide a clearer and more accurate representation of safety performance. In previous years, data was presented as a percentage increase or decrease.

Mondelēz 2024 Snacking Made Right Report: Health & Safety

<img alt="Amy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae06ff29-5e22-4d8e-8f5d-3f8e159c56dc" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/successful-return-engineering_Cummins_082025.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/2025/07/21/amys-successful-return-engineering" target="_blank">Cummins</a>

The Cummins Inc. RePower Program is a paid returnship designed to empower professionals who have been away from the workforce for at least two years. Through this six-month paid assignment, participants gain the opportunity to apply their specialized expertise, interests, life experiences and skills in fields such as IT, engineering and supply chain planning. The program includes training, coaching, development and networking events, with the potential for full-time employment opportunities upon completion. For professionals like Amy, who are reentering the workforce after a career break, such programs can be life-changing.

Amy began her career in product and process development at a flexible packaging company, collaborating closely with customers to create innovative packaging solutions. She also spent time documenting crucial manufacturing processes for transfer to new facilities. After completing a major project in her engineering role, Amy decided to pursue a career outside of engineering. While this shift allowed her to acquire valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and adaptability, she soon realized she missed using data to guide decisions. This realization prompted her to return to engineering, choosing Cummins because of its values, mission, and professional growth opportunities.

Amy discovered the Cummins RePower Program through the Society of Women Engineers’ STEM Reentry initiative. “The application process was straightforward. I submitted my application online and received a response within 24 hours. My interview was scheduled with a panel a few weeks later, and I was offered a position shortly after.”

The returnship program provided Amy with a chance to connect with a community within a large organization like Cummins. Throughout the program, she attended regular check-ins and meetings, gaining valuable insights from those who had completed the program and now worked full-time at Cummins. “My favorite part of the program was the opportunity to meet in small groups and get to know the other returnship participants and our mentors better.”

Through the RePower Program, Amy not only acquired new skills but also made significant connections. She shared her experiences with others returning to STEM, which helped her navigate her reentry into the field. The program’s support system greatly impacted her, allowing her to feel connected and supported every step of the way.

When Amy transitioned from the program to her full-time role, she remained on the same team and continued to handle many of the tasks she had during the program. She was also entrusted with additional responsibilities. The skills she gained during her career break, combined with what she learned through the RePower Program, have contributed to her success in her current position. Amy currently serves as a Certification and Compliance Lead at Cummins, where she plays a key role in assisting New Product Development teams with formal compliance reviews throughout the development process.

The structure and support provided by the returnship program helped Amy navigate the extensive organization that is Cummins. The program guided her on where to find resources, whom to ask for help, and provided a space to share experiences with others. This sense of structure made it easier for her to transition and visualize her future career within Cummins.

Amy highly recommends the Cummins RePower Program to anyone looking to reenter the STEM workforce. “I feel so fortunate that I found the program and that opportunities like this exist for those trying to rejoin STEM fields.” She believes it’s an incredible opportunity to gain the support and connections needed for successful reintegration into the field. Amy is thankful for the program and the doors it has opened for her within Cummins.

Amy’s Successful Return to Engineering

<img alt="A young cancer patient with his companion dog." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="972f8126-b558-4a2c-adcc-63d899bdc855" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCC-Graylon_pet%20therapy_Aflac_9.15.25A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="927" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/15-new-reasons-to-smile-Aflac-Childhood-Cancer-Foundation-awards-2025-Child-Life-Grants" target="_blank">Originally published on Aflac Newsroom</a>

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation (ACCF) has announced recipients of their 2025 Child Life Grant awards benefitting 15 hospital programs that will help bring comfort, support and guidance to pediatric patients, their siblings and families experiencing a cancer or blood disorders diagnosis. Since 2018, 83 grants totaling $152,500 have been awarded by the foundation to Child Life programs across the U.S.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to once again support the vital role child life specialists play in helping young cancer and blood disorders patients and their loved ones navigate their journeys through diagnosis and treatment,” said ACCF president Kerry Hand.

Because insurance does not typically cover Child Life programs, charitable donations are vital for some hospitals to be able to include these therapeutic and educational interventions that help minimize stress, promote coping and help children and families adjust to medical experiences, he added.
<img alt="Young child holding an Aflac Duck and a blanket." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7b789b4-7147-4adf-bf56-03787309b5f3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aflac_Blanket_CLS_Aflac_9.15.25B.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />This year’s grantees are Children’s Health Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK – Nourishing Hope; Children’s National, Washington, DC – Super Sib Day; East Alabama Medical Center, Opelika, AL – Sickle Cell education; Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, Danville, PA – Head wraps and care packages; James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital, Greenville, NC – Canine Crew; Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Atlanta, GA – coping support resources; Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, Tacoma, WA – developmental play items; New York Presbyterian Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY – support group; Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Miami, FL – Memory Making; Christus Children’s, San Antonio, TX - Puppyatrics ; Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ – sack lunch program; UCSF Benioff Hospital, Oakland, CA – Patient and Sibling Resiliency Initiative; UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, Gainesville, FL – sibling care packages; University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS – proton therapy patient blankets; and Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, Augusta, GA – pup companion. Stay tuned to <a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/" target="_blank">newsroom.aflac.com</a> for more stories about the impact of these programs.

You can <a href="https://cfcv.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1049" target="_blank">join the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation</a> in its mission. One hundred percent of donations to the Aflac Childhood Cancer Campaign directly benefit children with cancer and blood disorders and their families through grants supporting treatment and research at hospitals and organizations across the U.S.

Aflac WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2500878  
Exp 9/26

15 New Reasons To Smile: Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation Awards 2025 Child Life Grants

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6f5409e-a52e-4e48-8fff-c9831004dd5d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/AI-solutions_Cisco_090925_1.png" width="640" height="616" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Cisco’s Chief Sustainability Office hosted an AI + Climate Innovation Lab, bringing together 100+ industry experts, founders, and investors to discuss AI and data needs across nine climate sub sectors during San Francisco Climate Week 2025.</figcaption></figure>Artificial intelligence (AI) holds great promise for climate innovation, but its effectiveness depends on access to diverse, high-quality data — something that can be difficult and costly to obtain in the climate sector. This data challenge further complicates an already complex financial environment for climate tech, which is supported by a blend of public, philanthropic, and private funding.

Specifically, Cisco Foundation’s grants and investments, via the <a href="https://blogs.cisco.com/our-corporate-purpose/reintroducing-the-cisco-foundation-regenerative-future-fund-redefining-impact-in-climate-investing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Regenerative Future Fund (RFF),</a> support quality, open source, foundational data availability and innovative AI applications for climate through blended finance for the industry. Our latest blended finance engagements —with partners across regenerative agriculture and wildfire resilience — serve as case studies.

Aligning capital and data to value regenerative agriculture practices

U.S. farmers seeking to adopt regenerative agriculture practices face many challenges, such as limited access to capital and inadequate data infrastructure. In fact, the <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm-economy/farm-sector-income-finances/farm-sector-income-forecast" rel="noopener" target="_blank">USDA has reported 21% and 17% declines in farm working capital in 2023 and 2024 respectively</a>. These economic trends can limit farmers’ ability to invest in regenerative transitions, and challenge long-term sustainability and growth.

To address this, we provided investment capital to the <a href="https://fractal.ag/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fractal Farmer Agriculture Regenerative Management (FARM) Fund</a>, which introduced a pioneering financial model that supports farmers while maintaining their land control. Offering 10-year contracts inclusive of incentives tied to regenerative practice adoption, Fractal provides an alternative to conventional debt or majority equity funding structures.

The success of this model is reflected in Fractal’s work with 14 farms, which the organization says have reported a 6.5% higher crop yield compared to local benchmarks and maintained stronger income rates relative to market averages.

For Jesse Hough, the general manager and financial strategist of Hough Farms in East Central Nebraska, Fractal’s long term minority investment approach has helped him consistently outperform county yields. He can continue making on-farm decisions and, unlike short-term programs, Fractal supports regenerative practices for the full ten years, aligning incentives so both farmer and investor share in the long-term gains.

Fractal uses AI and machine learning to analyze underlying land productivity and create more accurate land valuations for its investments. Its models incorporate climate risk and soil health, a more sophisticated approach than traditional static measures that can under- or overvalue a farm’s long-term potential. For Fractal to continue to implement its work best and support farmers like Jesse, it needs improved data infrastructure to support underwriting and incentive processes for the company.

<blockquote>
“When regenerative practices improve yield resilience, the cash flow impacts ripple from land value to crop insurance. Through Open Ground, we’re partnering with Earth Genome to make the climate and agronomic data behind those benefits open source — ensuring it can drive meaningful impact across the entire sector.” — Dr. Emma Fuller, Co-Founder, Fractal
</blockquote>

To accelerate the development of these vital datasets, the Cisco Foundation also provided an early-stage cash grant to <a href="https://www.earthgenome.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Earth Genome</a>. Their new, open-source Open Ground initiative, developed in collaboration with Fractal, will integrate historical climate data, localized extreme weather models, and advanced crop failure classifications to deliver precise field-level insights. Their open access helps stakeholders like researchers, startups, insurers, lenders, and public good entities unlock the potential for AI applications in agriculture. It also helps them to confidently invest in, integrate and reward regenerative agricultural practices in their operations.

The AI edge in wildfire management: Mapping a resilient future

Another example of our blended finance approach is our support of Vibrant Planet and Vibrant Planet Data Commons to address wildfire and land management.

Cisco Foundation’s investee, <a href="https://www.vibrantplanet.net/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vibrant Planet PBC</a>, operates on the core thesis that “you can’t understand what you can’t see”— a concept increasingly crucial as more extreme weather, outdated fire suppression policies, and fragmented restoration efforts make U.S. forests more susceptible to catastrophic wildfires.

The lack of open-source, high-quality data has hindered restoration, management, and community engagement, and has especially excluded Indigenous stewardship and perspectives.

Addressing these challenges requires advanced technology. Vibrant Planet leverages satellite imagery, remote sensing, AI-powered modeling, and cloud-based data integration to capture a comprehensive, real-time picture of forest health, fire risk, and ecosystem change with unmatched granularity.

While these technologies enable the collection, analysis, and sharing of vast datasets —spanning millions of acres — they provide it at an incredibly localized level. This makes actionable insights and informed recommendations via their wildfire resilience platform available to land managers, scientists, and policymakers.

<a href="https://www.vpdatacommons.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vibrant Planet Data Commons</a>, the nonprofit arm of Vibrant Planet PBC, makes forest science and data meaningful and accessible to drive wildfire and ecosystem resilience. With Cisco Foundation grant support since 2022, they’ve built core infrastructure and released novel open-access data packages — including a wildfire ignition probability model  —alongside story-driven tools for public engagement.

Their work prioritizes Indigenous knowledge sharing, with protocols co-developed alongside Tribal partners. These packages are used by scientists and practitioners across the American West, with a growing focus on tracking how this knowledge informs management and infrastructure decisions.

As Dr. Chelsey Walden-Schreiner, Director of Science Development at Vibrant Planet Data Commons shared, “Together, Vibrant Planet PBC and VPDC form a hybrid engine for change — where science meets scalable systems, and where public good and market-driven innovation reinforce one another. Our success is not parallel, but interdependent — unlocking a model for how mission-aligned for-profits and nonprofits can co-create transformative climate resilience.”

Together, these examples illustrate how blended finance and open data can help inform AI-driven approaches to climate resilience, such as supporting more adaptive agricultural practices and informing forest management strategies.

This blog was written with assistance from Ryan Jones, Cisco Chief Sustainability Office, TekSystems.

View original content <a href="https://blogs.cisco.com/our-corporate-purpose/the-data-catalyst-blended-finance-paving-the-way-for-climate-ai-solutions" target="_blank">here</a>.

Cisco - The Data Catalyst: Blended Finance Paving the Way for Climate AI Solutions

<img alt="Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver for The Ohio State Buckeyes." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10d0c70d-a7b4-4cc9-b6b7-d56dde64bab9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jeremiah_Smith_KeyBank_9.10.25.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />CLEVELAND, September 12, 2025 /CSRwire/ - Today, <a href="https://www.key.com/personal/index.html" target="_blank">KeyBank</a> proudly announced a dynamic new partnership with Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver for <a href="https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/football" target="_blank">The Ohio State Buckeyes</a> and one of college football’s top athletes. The collaboration marks a strategic move by Key to deepen engagement across communities in its home state of Ohio and connect with younger audiences through shared values of education, empowerment and community impact.

The collaboration will launch a new social-first campaign, “The KeyBank Financial Playbook,” designed to empower individuals with financial knowledge through engaging, football-themed content. The initiative combines Smith’s athletic achievements with KeyBank’s commitment to financial wellness, creating a unique platform to reach younger audiences and sports fans across Ohio and beyond.

Smith, a sophomore at The Ohio State University, has shattered freshman records and is a projected Heisman contender and first-round NFL draft pick. He brings a rapidly growing social media presence and an authentic personal brand.

“Jeremiah Smith is more than a football phenom, he’s a role model for young people, a passionate advocate for education and believes in the power of community and collaboration,” said Patty Jurca, KeyBank Chief Brand Officer. “His commitment to using his platform for good aligns perfectly with KeyBank’s purpose: to help our clients, our colleagues and our communities thrive.”

The partnership also includes exclusive rights to Smith’s name, image and likeness in the banking category, and support of KeyBank’s charitable initiatives.

“Partnering with KeyBank is an opportunity to make a real impact off the field. As a student-athlete, I see firsthand how important financial literacy is for young people and families,” said Smith. “KeyBank has long been a leader in the financial services industry and a pillar in the state of Ohio. Together, we’re working to provide resources and education that strengthen our communities here and beyond.”

“Jeremiah’s influence reaches far beyond the football field,” added Lara DeLeone, KeyBank Central Ohio Market President. “He’s a powerful voice for the next generation, and we’re proud to work with him to unlock new opportunities for our clients and communities.”

ABOUT KEYCORP

In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit <a href="https://historyofkeybank.com/" target="_blank">KeyBank Heritage Center</a>. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $185 billion at June 30, 2025. 

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.key.com/" target="_blank">https://www.key.com/</a>. KeyBank Member FDIC. 

CFMA# 250910-3479278

KeyBank Partners With Ohio State Football Star Jeremiah Smith To Inspire Communities and Launch ‘The KeyBank Financial Playbook’ Campaign

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/Lekil%27Na_%2011%20viviendas%20dignas%20y%20sustentables%20para%20una%20comunidad%20tzotzil%20en%20Chiapas..mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

Habitat for Humanity Mexico (HPHM) partnered with families in the Monte Sion community of San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, to build 11 new homes. Working together with the homeowners, these homes will benefit 42 community members, 19 adults and 23 children. Part of the Lekil’Na project, a name given by the community meaning “sustainable housing” in Tzotzil, the homes reflect a shared commitment to stronger, healthier living spaces.
<img alt="In the heart of Southern Mexico, Chipas pulses with the echoes of ancient voices." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="523fdad2-6beb-4f6d-af3a-e0b61d3d958e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Habitat%20for%20Humanity%20Mexico_Wesco_8.14.25D.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="687" loading="lazy" />The homes are sustainable, affordable, and adequate, with legal certainty of ownership, and utilize solar panels and energy-efficient wood-burning stoves. They were built with sustainable materials such as concrete blocks using RESIN8™, a technology that transforms non-recyclable plastic waste into concrete blocks and floors, demonstrating greater durability and reliability in the construction process.
<img alt="Habitat for Humanity Mexico delivered 11 EDGE certified homes." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13ecf8f4-8091-419a-9d19-54d3acdac121" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Habitat%20for%20Humanity%20Mexico_Wesco_8.14.25B.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />The homes are being certified under the EDGE system, thanks to 3Lotus Consulting and GBCI Mexico. EDGE is an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. This certification demonstrates that it is possible to develop social housing that meets international standards of sustainability, efficiency, and well-being.
<img alt="This initiative provides decent and safe home, directly impacting 23 children and 19 adults." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1246ae1-7da1-4027-8821-0a16a97824cb" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Habitat%20for%20Humanity%20Mexico_Wesco_8.14.25C.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="672" loading="lazy" />This project was made possible thanks to the partnership between Habitat for Humanity Mexico and CRDC Mexico, which secured investment from<a href="https://www.wesco.com/" target="_blank"> Wesco International</a> and Dow. Together, they made this replicable sustainability model a reality. It seeks to inspire the public, private, and social sectors to rethink how we build and for whom we build. It is hoped that more companies will soon join these types of social investment initiatives so that we can all live with dignity without compromising the future of the planet.

Wesco and Habitat for Humanity Mexico (HPHM) Deliver Sustainable Homes for a Tzotzil Community in Chiapas

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2025-09/meet-jonathan-using-love-courage_HENKEL_091625.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

Tapping into different voices, perspectives, and experiences helps businesses solve problems, reveals new opportunities to grow, and encourages contributions that better support people and communities. At Henkel North America, diversity is a path to progress, innovation, and impact. Our employees and partners are united by our purpose: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations. They collaborate to tackle challenges, find solutions and open new perspectives – allowing us to deliver products, services, and innovations that enrich and improve everyday life.

We invite you to “meet” our pioneers in our series, “Pioneers for Good.”

Introducing Jonathan Espinosa
<img alt="Jonathan Espinosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fe3f39d-3fde-436d-9eaa-439964fd8e96" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/meet-jonathan-using-love-courage_HENKEL_091625A.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="667" loading="lazy" />Jonathan Espinosa, Supply Chain Finance Controller for Henkel North America, embodies how love and courage can ignite meaningful change. This attitude has not only helped him shift challenges into growth opportunities but also encourage others to live authentically.

Beginning his career as an operational controller for Henkel in Mexico in 2016, Jonathan moved to the US in 2023 to work for the supply chain organization. Jonathan's career is a testament to his deep commitment to embracing every challenge with fortitude.

“Every position I have held has challenged me either personally or professionally and each experience has led me to growth,” said Jonathan.

Fostering Community in the Workplace

Jonathan looks for ways to create opportunities for employees to bond and foster unity. In Mexico, he organized events such an open mic format where employees could express ideas and share experiences in a safe space.

When Jonathan transferred to a new role in the US, he brought his spirit of love and authenticity along with his quest to do his part in building the culture of belonging at Henkel. He joined the PRIDE Employee Resource Group (ERG) to collaborate with his new colleagues in creating opportunities for connection.

For Jonathan, ERGs help Henkel to build inclusive communities that empower employees to bring their full authentic selves to work. The ERG network at Henkel thrives on collaboration, offering members and allies a chance to connect across communities.
<img alt="Jonathan Espinosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98de2538-6835-43c4-8ff8-c60d6d883b4b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/meet-jonathan-using-love-courage_HENKEL_091625B.png" width="340" class="align-center" height="1000" loading="lazy" />With Jonathan’s leadership, the ERG has organized simple events such as cupcakes and conversation on Valentine’s Day as well as larger scale events including employee participation in the NYC Pride parade to celebrate the power of love and inclusion.

Through his time working with Henkel’s PRIDE ERG and exposure to other ERGs, Jonathan has developed a deeper appreciation for Henkel’s larger network of resource groups. Although not a formal member of UNIDOS, Henkel’s Hispanic/Latinx ERG, Jonathan shares his Hispanic heritage and celebrates the group’s mission while continuing to spread his message of love and courage.

<blockquote>
"Diversity is an asset, not a liability. When you show who you truly are, you activate the power of diversity to strengthen relationships and build community in the workplace. You should never be afraid or ashamed of who you are."

Jonathan Espinosa, Supply Chain Finance Controller for Henkel North America
</blockquote>

Leading With Love, Allows Unity to Follow

At the heart of Jonathan’s advocacy is a simple message: love is the antidote.

This philosophy aligns with Henkel’s sentiment of “Love Unites All”, a notion that Jonathan also carries with him in his day-to-day life. By leading with love, Jonathan is able to advocate for his community, live true to himself, and encourage others around him to do the same.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a88105f-e502-46b2-a9ce-2296215d0fac" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/meet-jonathan-using-love-courage_HENKEL_091625C.png" width="640" height="534" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Jonathan and Henkel colleagues celebrating Pride across the globe and sharing the message Love Unites All.</figcaption></figure>Jonathan’s ability to use love as an antidote provides courage for the next generation to continue in his path. He aims to help shape a future where more people can be their authentic selves not solely in the workplace but in every facet of life. Jonathan’s journey shows that when individuals are empowered to be themselves, they open doors for those to come.

Jonathan says, “being open and vocal about your identity allows others to feel safe to do so as well.”

See Jonathan and Henkel colleagues celebrating Pride across the globe and sharing the message <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/henkel_pride-around-the-world-henkel-activity-7368938507857309697-iYzg?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAAFrocEBgQDmOuCfWq3VHjcK8yrrw_BwUW0" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Love Unites All</a>.

Jonathan Espinosa, Supply Chain Finance Controller for Henkel North America, embodies how love and courage can ignite meaningful change. This attitude has not only helped him shift challenges into growth opportunities but also encourage others to live authentically.

Meet Jonathan: Using Love and Courage to Inspire Authenticity

<img alt="electric car charging" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27b04178-7cc8-4b88-9400-bb8f30fa718b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/batter-tester_Keysight_073125_5.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="551" loading="lazy" />By <a href="https://www.keysight.com/blogs/en/authors/sandra-cipriani" target="_blank">Sandra Cipriani</a>, Product Manager

In high-stakes applications like EV battery development, even minor measurement drift can lead to major consequences. Calibration isn’t just a checkbox—it’s your assurance of accuracy, safety, and compliance.

Battery testers are the backbone of your validation process. But without regular calibration, their precision can quietly degrade—putting your product quality, regulatory standing, and customer trust at risk. With KeysightCare, calibration becomes more than maintenance—it becomes a strategic safeguard. In this post, we’ll explore why calibration matters, what’s at stake when it’s skipped, and how proactive service through KeysightCare can keep your test data—and your reputation—rock solid.

Batteries have become ubiquitous -- and essential -- to our daily lives. A day doesn’t go by when I’m not dependent on several devices that run on increasingly smaller, more efficient, and more powerful electronic batteries, from wearables, to smartphones, to electrical vehicles and so much more. They enable portability and flexibility in our lives, while also playing key roles in contributing to a cleaner energy future.

These days, battery performance can make or break commercial success of an electronic product. As such, test has become critical to ensure batteries perform as expected “in the field.” And with test, the age-old question always comes up: do I really need to calibrate my battery test equipment? Today, I’m speaking to Christopher and Jeff, both working in the Service Delivery Organization of Keysight, to explore the if, and why, of battery test calibration.

Sandra: Good morning, Christopher and Jeff. Thank you so much for joining me.

Over the years, I’ve heard so many people say: “I paid a lot of money for my battery tester; I expect it to be in specification for the life of the equipment.” Do you agree? Is the need to calibrate inversely proportional to the quality of test equipment?

Christopher: Thank you for having me, Sandra. This is a topic that’s near and dear to my heart, and that I talk to a lot of customers about. The short answer is no. Calibration should never be seen as optional, nor should it be viewed as a reflection of the quality of test equipment. In fact, quite the opposite is true.

It’s a fact of life that all electronic test equipment must be calibrated. Typically done annually, <a href="https://www.electronicdesign.com/technologies/test-measurement/article/21258670/fluke-calibration-the-evolution-of-modern-calibration" target="_blank" title="calibration">calibration</a> is necessary to ensure that the equipment continues to provide the performance specifications that you require—and the performance you paid for when you made your equipment investment. As time progresses, all test equipment will slowly drift out of specification. Calibration with adjustments and optimizations, returns it to operating within its specifications.

In fact, it’s the highest-performance equipment that is the most critical to keep calibrated, especially because you paid a lot of money to get that performance, so it’s critical to maintain it.

Sandra: And is it specifically important for battery test?

Jeff: Most definitely! Your battery tester contains a charger (source), discharger (load), voltmeter to measure battery voltage, and an ammeter to measure battery current. For your battery tester, power source control must be carefully maintained, for example, to ensure a charger doesn’t overcharge a battery. Likewise, your battery tester is used where accurate measurement is needed, such as to report on the measured capacity of a battery. By following the calibration schedule for your testers, you can ensure your equipment performs at the desired peak performance.

Sandra: And what’s the downside if someone decides not to calibrate, or let’s too much time lapse?

Christopher: Once the calibration period expires, you can’t rely on the battery tester to provide its stated performance as this performance is neither guaranteed nor specified past the calibration interval. You are therefore risking your equipment drifting out of spec. This drift will mean that voltage sources might no longer source the voltage to the required accuracy, resulting in the wrong voltage output. Likewise, drift will cause measurements to have additional error such that you can’t trust the readings.  Ultimately, you won’t be able to have confidence in the results, or worse, you might damage your battery under test.

Sandra: Can you say more about electronic drift – why and how it happens?

Jeff: Sure, put simply, electronics drift due to time and stresses of operation. While the test equipment was in perfect calibration when it left the factory, components inside will drift over time due to many factors, including mechanical shock (like dropping the instrument or roughly moving the system) or heat cycling (as the equipment heats up and cools down during normal operation). The purpose of performing calibration at set intervals is to ensure the battery tester is returned to its best calibrated state  before  it drifts out of specification.

Sandra: So how does drift specifically impact battery test?

Christopher: If we look at a battery voltage measurement as an example, say we want to measure the open circuit voltage (OCV) of a lithium-ion cell. The cell has an OCV of 3.5000V. This is the true OCV. Now we want to measure the OCV using the battery tester. Take a look at the table in Figure 1 (below) that shows how to determine the measurement error.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="A table that shows how to determine the measurement error:" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3b06abb-61be-40df-88a2-5b3bcccc18db" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/batter-tester_Keysight_073125_1.jpeg" width="628" height="433" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Figure 1</figcaption></figure>The issue is that without calibration, it’s possible to introduce even greater measurement error. If you were relying on this voltage measurement of OCV to terminate a charge step when measuring capacity, the capacity determination would be wrong because you stopped the charge step either too soon or too late due to the wide error in the OCV measurement. The voltage error then propagates into other measurements. Figure 2 (below) illustrates this point and shows how the measurement specification compares to the true or actual OCV.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Chart showing how the measurement specification compares to the true or actual OCV." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="118d7f0a-fe70-4624-8fe2-06719438ba1b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/batter-tester_Keysight_073125_2.jpeg" width="640" height="478" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Figure 2</figcaption></figure>For example, if the out-of-calibration measurement is +/- (0.7% of measurement + 8 mV), the error on the true 3.5000 V OCV jumps up from +/- 3.74 mV when in calibration to +/- 10.45 mV when out of calibration, resulting in a measurement that could be anywhere in the range of 3.48955 to 3.51045 V.

Sandra: That is a very significant deviation. So how do you recommend battery test equipment be calibrated?

Christopher: For large testers, the calibration service will likely be performed in your test facility, as it may not be feasible to move the testers. On-site calibration services can be pricey, so for benchtop battery testers, it may be more cost-effective to return the equipment to a qualified service center.

We caution about self-calibration. It is similar to deciding to fix your own car. Do you have the time, skills, and resources needed? If so, fixing your car is more cost-effective than having a mechanic fix the car. But if you don’t know how to make the repair, or need to buy a set of expensive tools, or simply don’t have the time, then maybe it’s better to let the mechanic do it.

Sandra: Christopher and Jeff, thank you so much for your time and expertise. As you know, Keysight offers certified, award-winning calibration services, including KeysightCare Enhanced support plans to take the work out of remembering when and how to calibrate. I’ll include the information below for our readers. Thanks again for sharing your experiences with us. Are you ready to <a href="https://connectlp.keysight.com/LP=53270" target="_blank" title="discuss your calibration options">discuss your calibration options</a>?

About Jeff Massaro: 
Jeff is a dedicated Field Service Engineer specializing in battery testing at the Keysight Huntsville office. His career began with an impressive eight-year tenure in the Navy, where he honed his skills working on Radar and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) applications before transitioning to the calibration lab.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06ccf3ca-25df-4b25-876a-8b65f4d8429e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/batter-tester_Keysight_073125_3.jpeg" width="640" height="721" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Jeff Massaro</figcaption></figure>In 1990, Jeff joined Hewlett-Packard at the Atlanta service center, where he focused on oscilloscopes and provided on-site calibration services for customers. His expertise and commitment led him to the field service organization, and in 1995, he relocated to Austin. There, he supported customers with Electric Magnetic Test (EMT) and semiconductor test equipment, further solidifying his reputation as Senior Field Service Engineer.

About Christopher Morton: 
Christopher Morton is the EMEAI Business &amp; Operating Manager in the Keysight Solution Service Delivery Organization. He began his career in 2000 as a graduate at Agilent, where he worked as a Test Technician and later as a Manufacturing Engineer on the 8960 Wireless Communication Test Set. In 2005, he transitioned into a Field Service Engineer role, focusing on In-Circuit and End-of-Line Functional Test solutions. Over the years, Christopher developed a strong foundation in the commercial aspects of the business, which led to his progression into management. He now leads the onsite Solution Service Delivery Organisation for Keysight across the EMEAI region.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffe45dc2-12dd-4ae1-9c07-55eefff8df78" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/batter-tester_Keysight_073125_4.jpeg" width="440" height="512" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Christopher Morton</figcaption></figure>

In high-stakes applications like EV battery development, even minor measurement drift can lead to major consequences. Calibration isn’t just a checkbox—it’s your assurance of accuracy, safety, and compliance.

Can You Afford Not To Calibrate Your Battery Tester?

<img alt="Workers standing outside of Elco Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4de1c49-9c50-4c82-98c4-7695f8982c09" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Elco-Plant_Covia_091625_1.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1707" loading="lazy" />Tucked along a two-lane highway in southern Illinois, just a few miles apart, sit Covia’s Elco and Tamms plants. This dynamic duo of facilities has a long history of delivering success, all while keeping service and safety at the heart of everything they do.

From Competitors to Teammates

While the Elco and Tamms plants now strive to support Covia’s customers together, they weren’t always on the same side. The two facilities have each been in operation for more than 100 years in southern Illinois, strategically located near a unique geologic formation of <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/minerals/silica-sand/" target="_blank">microcrystalline silica</a> near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. 
<img alt="exterior of Elco Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37c4960b-e968-4413-a349-cf1329deac3d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Elco-Plant_Covia_091625_2.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1707" loading="lazy" />While the Elco and Tamms plants were run by separate companies for decades, that rivalry came to an end when Covia acquired both facilities a few years apart in the ‘80s. The Tamms plant was eventually transitioned into a processing facility for <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/minerals/nepheline-syenite/" target="_blank">nepheline syenite</a>, which is used for Covia’s <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/products/minbloc-hc/" target="_blank">MINBLOC® HC High-Clarity Antiblock additive</a> and <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/products/minex/" target="_blank">MINEX® functional filler</a>. Meanwhile, Elco continues to actively mine and process silica into <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/products/imsil-for-coatings/" target="_blank">IMSIL® microcrystalline silica fillers</a>, which are used to support products ranging from <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/markets/coating/" target="_blank">paint coatings</a> and <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/markets/polymers/" target="_blank">polymers</a> to cement casings used for oil and gas wells.

Today, the two plants work in tandem to deliver reliable mineral solutions. A team of 55 team members support both sites, creating a level of camaraderie even though the plants focus on different minerals. 
<img alt="exterior of Elco Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b76943a7-39db-43bf-acdd-b33cbda5f070" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_3.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="768" loading="lazy" />Quality Products, Global Impact

Another trait that the Elco and Tamms plants share is pride in making quality products that customers want to buy. Both plants work with minerals recognized for their unique and valuable properties.

According to Plant Manager Bleve Willoughby, the quality of these products is a reflection on the hard work and dedication of the team.

“People here feel like what they’re doing matters,” Bleve explains. “Our team takes pride in making a premium product that makes a difference for our customers.”
<img alt="worker inside Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f1ec70e-7733-4065-b96a-ae0d047682a3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_4.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="267" loading="lazy" />The team also strives to improve their own internal processes. In 2024, the Elco plant was able to achieve a 20% increase in output of fine-grade products by modifying airflow at a key point in the process. This improvement led to reduced operating times and associated costs to meet customer demand. Bleve and his team also developed and implemented a new operating scenario to support the modified process.
<img alt="worker inside Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34d15271-8ffc-4f07-abf5-38bea137bff8" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_5.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="267" loading="lazy" />Between the quality of the products and the improved efficiencies, the Elco and Tamms plants have several satisfied, repeat customers from far beyond their region. Elco’s silica, for example, is shipped all over the world, including Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia.

“It's cool to think that we’re here in a really small, rural area and we're making something that goes to customers all over the world,” said Bleve. “They don’t have anything comparable in their area of the world, so they come to us here in Illinois.”

Award-Winning Safety Standards

Product quality is a notable highlight for the team members at Elco and Tamms, but so is the way they go about safely producing those products. The plants strive to keep silica dust exposures at a minimum each day and make safety-based decisions to ensure that team members can return home in the same condition in which they arrived.
<img alt="workers inside Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9fe7f9b-941a-4f1e-9043-ee9e1c8eba7d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_6.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="853" loading="lazy" />“The people run the plant, and it's their actions and their everyday behaviors that keep us safe,” Bleve explained. “We can engineer safer solutions and put guards where required, but at the end of the day it comes down to people making the right choices for us to be safe.”
<img alt="workers inside Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="460c945a-ad9d-4b18-92db-6857a17bbd31" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_7.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="853" loading="lazy" />Those choices have led to tangible results. According to Bleve, it’s been more than 11 years since a lost-time incident. The Elco plant <a href="https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/773626-covia-presents-plant-elco-illinois-presidents-safety-award" target="_blank">earned the company’s President’s Safety Award in 2022</a>, an honor that recognizes the Covia plant that achieves the highest level of safety performance. 
<img alt="exterior of Covia plant" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f860a93-eb20-4dd2-942f-dc07a1d4fbe9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Covia-Plant_091625_8.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="754" loading="lazy" />Neighbors Helping Neighbors

In addition to supporting each other, the team members at the Elco and Tamms plants also strive to help the community that surrounds them. Covia is proud to <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/corporate-responsibility/positive-social-impact/the-covia-foundation/" target="_blank">empower team members to pursue volunteering opportunities</a>, and the Elco and Tamms team has a history of going above and beyond for the region.

Every plant has different takes on volunteering, as Covia encourages people to support causes that resonate with them. For multiple individuals at Elco and Tamms, that includes volunteering for the local fire department. According to Bleve, two different team members serve as the chiefs of their respective fire departments, while others find their own ways to give back to their community.

“They volunteer because they want to make a difference,” Bleve stated. “They don't know these people when they go to their houses 

Looking Ahead

The Elco and Tamms plants may hail from a small area, but their impact stretches far and wide. With unique products, innovative processes, and team members who care deeply about safety and community, they embody the very best of Covia.

Tucked along a two-lane highway in southern Illinois, just a few miles apart, sit Covia’s Elco and Tamms plants. This dynamic duo of facilities has a long history of delivering success, all while keeping service and safety at the heart of everything they do.

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