Kimberly Hilton

Kim Hilton, also known as Chemical Kim, earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Secondary Education Certification at Michigan Technological University in 1991. During her time at Tech, she was an active member of the student chapter of the American Chemical Society, a sister of Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, a lab assistant, a chemistry tutor and a participant in cross country and track. Her extracurricular activities included playing broomball, intramural hockey, and cross-country skiing. These experiences at Tech laid the foundation for her successful career. 

A distinguished science education influencer, she boasts a remarkable following of over a million on various social media platforms. Her engaging content inspires viewers to delve into the wonders of science through hands-on experimentation. Both in the classroom and online, Chemical Kim is dedicated to enhancing chemical education at community colleges and high schools, using technology in science education, and fostering inclusion within the field. 

She’s worked to improve chemistry laboratories, integrate mobile technology for educational purposes, and lead workshops and presentations on educational technology. She’s presented science programs in schools, libraries, foster care programs, and organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts. At the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she developed the "Science Friday" class, enabling hospitalized children to engage actively in scientific exploration. 

Her influence expands to television. She started with "The Chemical Kim Science Show" on the Public Media Network in Kalamazoo, Michigan, earning the Philo T Farnsworth Award and the PMN Spirit Award in 2008. She was also the resident scientist on the ABC affiliate station WZZM 13, featuring in biweekly science segments on the morning show. 

She’s dedicated to inclusion in STEM education, serving as the LGBTQ Pride co-chair in Kalamazoo in 2011. She remains committed to improving LGBTQ visibility in STEM and is featured on the platform 500 Queer Scientists. 

Chemical Kim is the proud mother of four adult children and lives in Naples, Florida, with her wife. Together, they enjoy hiking, water sports, running, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, photography, and travel. She shares many of these adventures with her followers on social media, continuing to inspire curiosity and a love for science. 

Taken from the Michigan Tech Academy of Sciences and Arts Induction Ceremony

Updated September 2023