Francis Wang, a veteran in clean technology and battery innovation, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees at Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech). Wang brings nearly 30 years of experience in energy storage and sustainable manufacturing to the university’s leadership.
“I am deeply honored to join the Illinois Tech Board of Trustees,” said Wang. “Illinois Tech is a driving force for innovation in innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship in the Midwest, where the next generation of clean energy solutions is taking place. As the world works to address climate change, Illinois Tech’s students and researchers are leading the way with the creativity and determination that define this region. I’m excited to help empower them to turn bold ideas into technologies that will transform our future.”
Wang is currently board chairman at NanoGraf Corporation, a Chicago-based company focused on advanced silicon anode materials designed to improve lithium-ion battery performance. During his tenure as CEO from 2019 to 2025, he led NanoGraf from its early stages through commercialization and secured more than $200 million in funding. Under his guidance, NanoGraf was listed among TIME magazine’s Top Global Clean Tech Companies for 2025. Wang has also received recognition as a leading entrepreneur from Axios and Forbes.
“Our Illinois Tech community is honored to welcome Francis Wang to the Board of Trustees,” said Illinois Tech President Raj Echambadi. “Francis’ work at the forefront of battery innovation exemplifies the kind of transformative impact that defines our university. His leadership as an entrepreneur in green technology will inspire students and strengthen our mission—not just as Chicago’s only tech-focused university, but as an institution dedicated to creating a brighter, cleaner tomorrow.”
Before joining NanoGraf, Wang held leadership roles at Duracell, Proctor & Gamble, Gillette, Boston Scientific, and the National Institute of Clean and Low-Carbon Energy. He has expertise throughout the battery value chain including materials design and large-scale manufacturing. His work has been featured in major publications such as The New York Times, The Economist, and The Wall Street Journal.
In addition to his new position on Illinois Tech’s Board of Trustees, Wang serves on the Board of Advisors for the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship. He is also affiliated with the Economic Club of Chicago and supports Mercy Home for Boys & Girls.
“Francis Wang represents the very best of technological leadership and purpose-driven innovation,” said Michael P. Galvin (LAW ’78), chair of Illinois Tech’s Board of Trustees. “His accomplishments in clean energy and his dedication to mentoring future leaders embody Illinois Tech’s values of innovation and impact.”
Wang holds a doctorate in materials chemistry from State University of New York at Stony Brook and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Rutgers University. He is credited as inventor or co-inventor on more than 50 patents and has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications.
Illinois Institute of Technology is based in Chicago and describes itself as the city’s only tech-focused university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across multiple disciplines including engineering, computing, architecture, business, design, science, human sciences, and law.