Ashok Krishna: His path to global leadership began with a strong academic foundation rooted in excellence and curiosity. He earned his Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras in 1974, one of India’s most prestigious institutions. At IIT Madras, he distinguished himself through intellectual rigor and a passion for applying theory to real-world challenges.
Driven to deepen his understanding of chemical engineering science, Ashok Krishna pursued advanced studies in the United States, obtaining both his Master of Science and PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts. His doctoral research on “Diffusional Influences on Catalyst Deactivation Rates” was so impactful that it later became part of undergraduate textbooks in Chemical Reaction Engineering—an enduring academic contribution that continues to educate students worldwide.
Recognizing the importance of leadership and business acumen in technology-driven industries, he further completed an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh in 1983, equipping him with the strategic perspective needed to bridge innovation and enterprise.
Ashok Krishna: A Transformational Career at Chevron Corporation
Ashok Krishna devoted 35 years of service to Chevron Corporation, rising through positions of increasing responsibility and influence. Throughout his career, he became widely known for his ability to translate advanced chemical engineering concepts into commercially viable, scalable technologies.
Technical Leadership Across Refining Processes
During his tenure at Chevron, Ashok Krishna held technical leadership roles across nearly every major petroleum refining process, including:
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Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC)
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Thermal Processing
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Rheniforming
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Alkylation
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Comprehensive Hydroprocessing systems
His hands-on expertise in these areas allowed him to guide the development, optimization, and commercialization of technologies that significantly improved refinery efficiency, product quality, and environmental performance.
Vice President of Technology, Global Downstream
As Vice President of Technology for Global Downstream, Ashok Krishna carried responsibility for the development and deployment of non-IT technologies across Chevron’s Downstream and Chemicals businesses worldwide. This role placed him at the center of Chevron’s global innovation strategy, where he ensured that emerging technologies aligned with long-term business objectives and regulatory realities.
Under his leadership, Chevron strengthened its ability to deliver cleaner fuels, higher-value products, and more resilient refining operations across multiple continents.
Ashok Krishna: Vice President and Site Director, Richmond Technology Center
Ashok Krishna also served as Vice President and Site Director of the Richmond Technology Center in California, one of Chevron’s most important research and innovation hubs. In this role, he oversaw complex operations involving multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and technologists.
His leadership style emphasized collaboration, scientific integrity, and practical impact—fostering an environment where innovation could thrive while remaining tightly connected to operational needs.
Global Influence Through Technology Marketing
One of the most defining chapters of Ashok Krishna’s career came during his tenure as Managing Director of Technology Marketing at Chevron. In this role, he played a pivotal part in introducing high-pressure hydro-processing technology to India.
This breakthrough enabled Indian refineries to produce cleaner fuels and premium lubricants, directly supporting improved air quality and compliance with evolving environmental standards. Today, the majority of Indian refineries employ Chevron technology, a testament to the scale and durability of this contribution.
Leadership in Strategic Joint Ventures
Ashok Krishna’s influence extended well beyond Chevron’s internal operations. He served on the boards of several major joint ventures, including:
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Chevron Lummus Global, a partnership with CBI Lummus for worldwide technology licensing
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Advanced Refining Technologies, a joint venture with Grace Davison, a global leader in petroleum catalysts
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CatchLight Energy, a Chevron–Weyerhaeuser partnership focused on cellulosic biofuels
At CatchLight Energy, Ashok Krishna was selected to guide the venture’s strategic direction, helping advance technologies that convert renewable cellulosic feedstocks into usable energy while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
Current Role and Industry Thought Leadership
As of 2026, Ashok Krishna serves as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Energy Internet Corporation (EIC). In this role, he provides forward-looking insights on the future of oil, gas, and energy systems—advising on how technology, digitalization, and sustainability will reshape the industry.
He is also a former member of the Board of Directors of Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), contributing his expertise to national-level energy strategy and infrastructure development.