Carlos Sheinbaum Yoselevitz may not be a household name worldwide, but in Mexico’s chemical and leather industries, his legacy stands strong. A chemical engineer by training and an entrepreneur by nature, Sheinbaum played a vital role in modernizing the tanning process in Mexico. Through his pioneering work, he not only helped reshape a key industrial sector but also inspired generations of professionals to think bigger and do better.
Early Years and Family Foundations
Born on February 25, 1933, in Mexico City, Carlos Sheinbaum Yoselevitz was raised in a family that valued education, discipline, and civic duty. His father, a Lithuanian immigrant and political activist, planted the early seeds of responsibility, hard work, and social engagement. These values would shape Carlos’s path throughout his life.
Growing up in a household where political and academic discussions were common, Carlos learned early on that change comes through knowledge and action. His curiosity and love for science made him gravitate toward chemistry and later engineering.
Academic Pursuits at Leading Institutions
Carlos began his formal education in chemical engineering at the National School of Chemical Sciences, which is part of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), one of the most prestigious institutions in Latin America. He later expanded his education by attending the University of Guadalajara.
These academic experiences gave Carlos not just technical know-how, but also a broader perspective on the challenges and possibilities within Mexico’s industrial sector. His education laid the foundation for his life’s most important work.
The Birth of Sintacrom de México
In 1960, Carlos took a bold step forward. Alongside two other chemical engineers, he co-founded Sintacrom de México, S.A. de C.V. This new company would change the landscape of the Mexican leather tanning industry. It was the first in the country to produce basic chromium sulfate, a critical chemical used in the tanning process.
Before Sintacrom, Mexico relied heavily on imports for this compound. With domestic production now possible, the industry became more self-reliant and cost-effective. As the technical commercial director for more than 30 years, Carlos was the driving force behind the company’s growth, innovation, and high standards.
Innovating the Leather Tanning Industry
Carlos Sheinbaum didn’t just follow existing methods. He looked for ways to improve them. His work with basic chromium sulfate introduced new levels of efficiency in the tanning process. This meant better quality leather, faster production times, and less environmental impact. These changes significantly improved how tanneries across Mexico operated.
His focus on practical results, combined with scientific expertise, made him a trusted figure among manufacturers and engineers alike. Carlos became a symbol of progress in an industry often overlooked despite its economic importance.
Promoting Industry Collaboration
Carlos believed that innovation thrives in collaboration. Beyond his work at Sintacrom, he was a key player in the professional community. He served multiple terms as president of the Mexican Federation of Leather Chemists and Technicians. During this time, he encouraged industry professionals to share ideas and solutions.
One of his standout contributions was the creation and promotion of the National Technical Meeting of Tanning. This gathering gave industry experts a platform to connect, learn, and grow. The event still holds value today, continuing the vision Carlos helped establish.
Mentoring Future Leaders
Even after stepping away from day-to-day operations, Carlos remained active in the chemical engineering community. He mentored younger engineers and professionals, offering advice and sharing lessons from his long and productive career.
Those who worked with him often describe Carlos as generous with his time and humble in his accomplishments. He understood the importance of knowledge transfer and saw mentorship as an investment in Mexico’s future.
Personal Values and Family Life
Behind the scenes, Carlos was a dedicated family man. His values extended beyond business. He strongly believed in community, ethics, and public service. These principles were reflected in his children, particularly Claudia Sheinbaum, his daughter, who has become a major political figure in Mexico. Her leadership reflects many of the same values that guided Carlos throughout his life.
Remembering a True Industry Pioneer
Carlos Sheinbaum Yoselevitz passed away on August 29, 2013, at the age of 80. While his life ended, his impact continues. Through his innovations in leather tanning, his leadership in industry organizations, and his mentorship of future engineers, Carlos left a lasting imprint on Mexico’s chemical engineering landscape.
His work helped modernize an entire sector, reduce reliance on imports, and improve product quality for domestic and international markets. But perhaps most importantly, he proved that with vision, education, and collaboration, one person can make a real difference.
A Lasting Message
Carlos’s story is not only one of professional achievement but also one of commitment, resilience, and legacy. He showed that technical expertise paired with entrepreneurial thinking can lead to national transformation. For students, engineers, and innovators in Mexico and beyond, Carlos Sheinbaum Yoselevitz remains a model of what dedication and leadership can accomplish.