Meet the Judge:

Dr. Caleb Brian

Advanced Application Engineering Specialist

Industrial Adhesives and Tapes Division

Caleb is a chemist by training, an innovation leader by profession, and a storyteller at heart. His specialty is turning complicated technologies, messy early ideas, and the occasional “wait, what does this actually do?” moment into clear, compelling stories that help teams move forward.

During his 12+ years at 3M, Caleb has worked across analytical chemistry, product development, advertising claims, and application engineering. He has supported products from early concept through commercialization and helped launch innovations including Scotch™ Flex & Seal Shipping Roll, named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2019, and Scotch™ Cushion Lock™ Protective Wrap, a 2023 Edison Award winner.

Today, Caleb works in 3M’s structural adhesives business, helping customers figure out how to make things stick - literally - in ways that are stronger, smarter, and ready for the real world. He has led cross-functional teams, developed communication strategies for new products, and served as Chair of 3M’s U.S. Tech Forum, helping connect and energize 3M’s technical community.

Through 3M TWIST - Teachers Working in Science & Technology - and other STEM outreach programs, he has spent years making science more accessible, relatable, and fun.

Caleb holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a B.S. in Chemistry from Graceland University. Outside of work, he enjoys working with his hands, whether in the garden or building LEGO models, and brings that same builder’s mindset to encouraging the next generation of innovators.

During his 12+ years at 3M, Caleb has helped bring award-winning innovations from concept to commercialization. A chemist by training, innovation leader by profession, and STEM advocate at heart, he is passionate about making complex science accessible and solving real-world challenges.