WILMINGTON, Del. — Theresa “Teri” Weston, Senior Research Fellow in Performance Building Solutions and DuPont Safety & Construction, has been named a DuPont Fellow, the highest technical professional level in the company.
Roofing contractors may not recognize Weston’s name, but they are familiar with her work. Weston’s scientific contributions led to the development of products like Tyvek HomeWrap, Tyvek DrainWrap, Tyvek CommercialWrap D, and one of the first DuPont flashing products: FlexWrap.
“Teri is a powerful example of how one innovator can transform an industry through leadership, scientific acumen and pure tenacity,” said Alexa Dembek, Senior Vice President, Chief Technology & Sustainability Officer (CTSO) at DuPont. “She recognized the environmental benefits and financial need for better weather sealing technology in the marketplace.”
Weston joins an elite group of scientists and engineers, with only 12 other DuPont Fellows active globally. A promotion to DuPont Fellow recognizes the highest level of technical expertise in the company.
Transforming the Field of Weather Resistance
Weston’s scientific contributions — combined with her active collaboration with the business team — formed the basis of the more than $300 million business of weather barriers. Recognizing the effects of moisture and weather intrusion could have on the integrity and energy efficiency of structures, Weston collaborated on the 1996 introduction of DuPont Tyvek HomeWrap.
In 1998, her efforts led to the development of a new water-resistant barrier category: DuPont Tyvek StuccoWrap. The drainage water-resistive barrier category was further expanded to include DuPont Tyvek DrainWrap and Tyvek CommercialWrap D.
She contributed to the team that introduced FlexWrap in 2001. The flashing portfolio and accessories have evolved to become critical components to DuPont’s weather barrier systems.
Weston earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and both a master’s degree and doctorate in chemical engineering at the California Institute of Technology. She joined DuPont in 1985 at the Fibers Pioneering Research Laboratory at the Experimental Station.
In addition to her industry leadership, Weston is an active mentor to the next generation of technical and building science leaders, including serving on various technical committees involving air leakage, ventilation and energy efficiency. She also is an active author of numerous technical papers and holds four U.S. patents.
“It’s a big honor to be recognized for my career and contributions to the industry, and a big responsibility in representing the technical community,” said Weston. “Along with the recognition, being a DuPont Fellow means being a mentor, and an opportunity to take on a larger role in mentoring others in the technical community.”
