As the CEO of RoCo, a small research company focused on ionic liquids of just four dedicated individuals, this holiday season offers the perfect moment to pause and reflect on a year that has been as challenging as it has been rewarding. When 2024 began, I truly believed that RoCo might not survive. Broken equipment, financial uncertainty, and personal health struggles loomed large. But today, as I look back, I see a year defined by resilience, growth, and the incredible power of relationships.
Navigating a World in Crisis
This year wasn’t just shaped by internal challenges; the world around us felt heavy. The ongoing war in Ukraine and the devastating conflict in Gaza reminded us daily of the fragility of peace and the interconnectedness of global systems. These crises reverberated through the supply chain, created economic pressures, and made us acutely aware of our own vulnerabilities. Yet, they also underscored the importance of our work. As a company rooted in innovation and sustainability, we feel a deep responsibility to contribute solutions to global challenges, no matter how small our role may seem.
The Challenges of January
Closer to home, we faced uncertainty. Equipment failures and mounting financial pressures cast a long shadow, and I wasn’t sure we’d make it through the first quarter. Yet, even in those dark times, our team’s unwavering commitment was a light. Ken Medlin, our laboratory manager, exemplified this spirit. His steadfast belief in RoCo’s mission—and in me—gave me the strength to keep going. Leadership isn’t about never feeling doubt; it’s about showing up even when doubt is overwhelming.
A Pivotal February
February brought a lifeline: a major sale of ionic liquids. This single event gave us the breathing room to push forward. Without it, I’m not sure we would have survived. That sale wasn’t just about numbers; it was a validation of the hard work and trust that defines RoCo.
Turning Points and Triumphs
As the year progressed, optimism—a trait both my greatest strength and occasional fault—proved invaluable. We secured two NASA subaward contracts for the development of groundbreaking ionic liquid technologies. Our sales tripled year over year, bolstered by strong relationships with major corporations and our trusted partner, IoLiTec GmbH.
We also welcomed Clarissa Crafton, a talented Carnegie Mellon graduate, to our team, strengthening our capabilities in polymer recycling. Her fresh perspective and expertise brought new energy to our work. Additionally, we maximized our laboratory space, expanding into new services and securing funding from the Mattress Recycling Council to explore innovative recycling processes.
The Power of Relationships
If there’s a single theme that defines 2024, it’s this: relationships matter. Our partnerships with Rochester Institute of Technology and Prof. Carlos Diaz have been instrumental in our success. Collaborating with Faraday and being part of the USRIA cohort opened new doors, reaffirming that strong connections are the foundation of any journey. Whether it’s with team members, partners, or customers, these bonds make every struggle and success worthwhile.
Investing in the Future
With the momentum we built, we invested in new equipment, including state-of-the-art Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Thermogravimetric Analysis units. These tools will allow us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation, particularly in carbon composites using our ionic liquid technologies.
Looking Ahead
When 2024 began, I feared for the future—not just for RoCo, but for the world. The conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, economic uncertainty, and global polarization weighed heavily on my mind. Yet, through it all, I’ve found hope. These challenges have taught me that even in the darkest moments, there is light to be found in the strength of a committed team, the support of valued partners, and the resilience of an idea worth fighting for.
To everyone who has been part of our journey—our team, partners, and customers—thank you. As we step into 2025, I look forward to continuing this incredible journey together.
What challenges have you overcome this year? Who has been your greatest support?
Happy holidays to all,
Batool Nulwala
CEO, RoCo