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Rocket Companies Names Venmo Chief Technology Officer, Former PayPal Executive, Papanii Okai EVP of Product Engineering

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Okai brings years of tech leadership to Rocket as the company continues its strategy of AI-fueled homeownership

DETROIT, Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT), the Detroit-based fintech platform company including mortgage, real estate and other financial service businesses, today named Venmo Chief Technology Officer and former PayPal technology executive Papanii Okai the Executive Vice President (EVP) of Product Engineering – effective October 7. In this newly created role, Okai will work with the company’s senior technology leaders to create AI-driven products at an even greater velocity.

“We’ve all experienced technology that drives real impact in the world through Papanii’s work with Paypal and Venmo. Now, he will be using that skill to help revolutionize the homeownership journey,” said Shawn Malhotra, Chief Technology Officer of Rocket Companies. “After serving in roles from a hands-on-keyboard engineer all the way to a CTO at both startups and large international tech companies, Papanii’s technical depth and track record for building high-performing and highly engaged teams makes him a valuable asset for us at Rocket. I’m looking forward to working closely with him as he helps us continue to evolve and elevate our technology teams.”

Okai joins Rocket at a time when the company is modernizing the homeownership experience for clients and partners by harnessing AI to create the most personalized, efficient and accurate process possible. The company created its own loan origination system – called Rocket Logic – that uses AI to identify and automatically extract data from the documents Rocket clients submit. A related tool, Rocket Logic – Synopsis, presents team members with searchable transcripts from calls, chats, relevant documents and data from Rocket Logic. With the company’s AI-powered tools, Rocket is projected to save more than 700,000 hours of time this year.

“Homeownership is one of the most impactful things that can happen in someone’s life. It brings security, stability and can build generational wealth – which is exactly why I jumped on this opportunity,” said Okai. “The best way we can use technology is to make the path to homeownership easier, faster and more accessible. I’m looking forward to bridging the gap between technology and human experience, so people across the country, no matter where they are from, feel confident taking this life changing step.”

Okai spent nearly 11 years in technology leadership roles at Venmo, most recently as Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Engineering. He led the technology and engineering teams who built and scaled products used by Venmo’s 90 million users, while driving strategic initiatives that solidified Venmo as a leader in peer-to-peer payments. 

Okai also led the engineering teams at PayPal, the global payments company serving more than 400 million accounts, holding many roles ranging from platform engineer to Chief Technology Officer for Branded Checkout and Vice President of Engineering for PayPal Giving. He oversaw the engineers, developers and product managers worldwide who powered PayPal’s payments platform used by both customers and merchants.

Okai will collaborate closely with engineers, product managers and design teams to build upon Rocket’s AI-powered products. His leadership will ensure that Rocket continues to deliver technically advanced, client-focused solutions that drive innovation and efficiency at every stage of the home buying process.

About Rocket Companies

Founded in 1985, Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT) is a Detroit-based fintech platform company consisting of personal finance and consumer technology brands including Rocket Mortgage, Rocket Homes, Amrock Title and Settlement Services, Rocket Money and Rocket Loans.

With more than 65 million call logs each year, 10 petabytes of data and a mission to Help Everyone Home, Rocket Companies is well positioned to be the destination for AI-fueled homeownership. Known for providing exceptional client experiences, J.D. Power has ranked Rocket Mortgage #1 in client satisfaction for primary mortgage origination and mortgage servicing a total of 22 times – the most of any mortgage lender.

For more information, please visit our Corporate Website or Investor Relations Website.

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SOURCE Rocket Companies, Inc.

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ELKEM TO SHOWCASE ITS THERMAL MANAGEMENT MATERIALS AT THE BATTERY SHOW

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EAST BRUNSWICK, N.J., Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Elkem, a leading silicone solutions provider, announces will participate in The Battery Show, taking place October 7-10 in Detroit, at booth #4605.

Elkem offers a range dispensable battery assembly solutions for ease of automation, which includes BLUESIL™ RT Foam product line for thermal insulation & lightweight vehicle applications, BLUESIL™ ESA product line for thermal management & electronic protection and CAF™ product line for sealing & bonding applications in harsh environments.

The company will feature its Thermal Management Materials, which are designed to mitigate thermal runaway, dissipate heat, and improve battery pack fire resistance. Elkem’s solutions protect over two million EV battery packs with 60 billion miles driven. “We can run thermal simulations to show how Elkem products improve battery performance and safety,” said John Albaugh, associate market manager.

Attendees can expect to see hands-on displays and literature covering Elkem’s innovative solutions. “We’re excited to be exhibiting at The Battery Show and look forward to meeting with our customers to discuss their specific needs,” added Albaugh.

Elkem Silicones has over 70 years of experience in automotive applications and is dedicated to creating a sustainable future through innovation. Its EV Applications Center reduces application development costs, expedites validation, and accelerates time to market. “We take pride in our agility to innovate into emerging markets and our technical teams provide services on demand from the design and development phases to qualification and after-sales,” added Albaugh.

Elkem Silicones’ thermal insulating materials and their use in EV batteries are protected by patents US10,501,597 B2 & US11,261,309 B2 and patent applications US2022081529 & US2023203265.

About Elkem ASA
Elkem is one of the world’s leading providers of advanced silicon-based materials shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 7,400 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2023, Elkem achieved an operating income of NOK 35.5 billion and CDP ratings of A on Forests, and A- on Climate Change and Water Security. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK), where the company is also included in the ESG Index. www.elkem.com

Press Contact: Karen O’Keefe
                          karen.okeefe@elkem.com
                          609-658-5458

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SOURCE Elkem Silicones

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Newterra Provides Cutting-Edge Technology for Downe Township’s New Wastewater Treatment Facility

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DOWNE TOWNSHIP, N.J., Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Newterra, a leader in innovative water and wastewater treatment solutions, is proud to announce its critical role in the construction of Downe Township’s new $33 million wastewater treatment facility. This state-of-the-art project will replace outdated septic systems and bring modern wastewater infrastructure to the township’s 1,600 residents, safeguarding the community’s future.

The facility, designed by engineering firm Mott MacDonald and set to be completed within 18 months, is a key development for the township following the devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy. The project received significant funding from the USDA Rural Development program and congressional allocations, but the technological backbone of the system will come from Newterra, whose advanced treatment equipment will ensure the community benefits from clean, efficient, and sustainable wastewater management.

“We’re honored to contribute our expertise and technology to a project that holds such importance for the local community,” said Kevin Cassidy, CEO at Newterra. “Our wastewater treatment solutions are designed to not only meet the immediate needs of Downe Township but also to provide long-term resilience against environmental challenges, ensuring that the township thrives for generations to come.”

With the new facility in place, Downe Township residents in Fortescue and Gandys Beach will be connected to a township-wide sewer system, marking a significant improvement in infrastructure that will enhance public health, environmental protection, and community stability.

Newterra has a long-standing commitment to partnering with rural and coastal communities across the U.S. to deliver sustainable water and wastewater treatment solutions. This project is yet another example of how Newterra is playing a vital role in shaping the future of water infrastructure in regions facing unique challenges.

About Newterra   

Newterra designs, engineers, manufactures, and services environmental, water and wastewater treatment solutions that assure great performance, superb reliability, and the highest value in our global markets.   The company offers a broad portfolio of reliable, trouble-free technologies and outsourcing support for municipal and industrial customers across diverse applications, including drinking water, industrial process water, wastewater, stormwater and remediation. For more information, please visit newterra.com.  

Media Contact 

Nathan CW Smith 

SVP Marketing and Lifecycle Services 

Nsmith@newterra.com

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SOURCE Newterra

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Connected Nation, AT&T, and the International Center of KY recognize local teens to kick off Digital Inclusion Week

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BOWLING GREEN, Ky., Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — To mark the start of Digital Inclusion Week 2024, Connected Nation (CN) joined the International Center of Kentucky and AT&T to welcome a new team to its Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, program. Held on Friday, October 4, at the International Center, officials from the three organizations recognized students from Geo International High School as leaders for their efforts to help their families and other community members learn new technology skills.

Earlier that day, AT&T and Human I-T hosted a device distribution event, where 25 laptops were provided to local high school students through the Bowling Green Area Chamber Foundation and SCK LAUNCH. This event further empowered local teens by connecting them to digital resources, reinforcing the commitment to bridging the Digital Divide and supporting community growth.

“We are thrilled to welcome these great student leaders to our program,” said Tom Ferree, Chairman and CEO of Connected Nation. “Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, allows us to empower students to make a difference in their communities by training the adults in their lives. Through the program, the students can earn startup and incentive funds for their program by providing services that help uplift the community.”

The Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T program, launched in 2022, equips teenagers to lead workshops that help bridge the Digital Divide. Teams of student volunteers, with guidance from a program mentor, offer hands-on training to adults who lack technology skills, ensuring they can navigate the online world safely and effectively. Teens Teach Tech powered by AT&T has provided training to more than 13,000 individuals in the past two years, focusing on critical skills such as computer basics, internet safety, and videoconferencing.

“We are thrilled to be joining Connected Nation and AT&T for this recognition of our wonderful students and the opening of our computer lab,” said Kayla Byrd, Director, International Center of Kentucky Bowling Green. “Having devices available to our constituents along with our teen trainers is a win-win for our community. Thanks to a great partnership.”

The Digital Divide remains a significant challenge in the United States, with millions lacking the skills and tools needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. With a third of the U.S. workforce lacking basic digital skills, according to the National Skills Coalition, the need for digital literacy programs has never been greater.

Through its digital skills training programs, Connected Nation is collaborating with community organizations to address this issue head-on by providing local communities with resources to enhance digital literacy. CN has provided training to nearly 20,000 individuals via AT&T-funded digital literacy programs. These efforts are crucial in bridging the gap and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed in today’s digital age.

“At AT&T, we believe in the power of technology to connect and uplift communities,” said Carlos E. Sanchez, President of AT&T, Kentucky. “Programs like Teens Teach Tech help ensure that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive in today’s digital economy. We’re proud to support this initiative and see its impact in Bowling Green.”

About Digital Inclusion Week:
Digital Inclusion Week is a national event that raises awareness of programs and initiatives aimed at closing the Digital Divide. Organizations across the country participate by highlighting the importance of digital access and literacy. Connected Nation is proud to be a part of this movement, working alongside partners like AT&T and the International Center of Kentucky to empower individuals through technology.

About Connected Nation: Connected Nation celebrated 20 years of service in 2021. The national nonprofit’s mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.

For more information, please visit: connectednation.org and follow Connected Nation on Facebook and Twitter.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and improving lives. As part of our companywide commitment to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning® to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008 we’ve committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states, Washington D.C. and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/connected-nation-att-and-the-international-center-of-ky-recognize-local-teens-to-kick-off-digital-inclusion-week-302269119.html

SOURCE Connected Nation

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