Sean I. Plasynski, Ph.D., leads the complete NETL complex, including two major components: (1) world-class research and development (R&D) concentrated on energy technologies with a focus on hydrocarbons and geothermal energy and (2) development and implementation of a broad spectrum of national energy programs for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) offices of Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy (formerly the Office of Fossil Energy); Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation; Electricity; and Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response. Plasynski leads NETL's workforce of more than 1,800 people, located at three sites across the nation and an additional field office, who are responsible for R&D projects that span the United States. As acting laboratory director, Plasynski fosters strategic relationships with academic institutions, state and local governments and important energy industry stakeholders. Since joining NETL in 1992, Plasynski has held numerous management and technical positions, including principal deputy director, deputy director and chief technology officer, chief operating officer, director of the Strategic Center of Coal and sequestration technology manager. He holds bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in chemical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh's Katz Graduate School of Business.