Patrick Deconinck

Patrick Deconinck is a retired Senior Vice President of 3M, where he built a distinguished 39‑year career marked by leadership across global sales, marketing, and business management. He joined 3M in 1976 in his home country of Belgium and rose through the organization to become a senior executive in 2001, relocating to St. Paul, Minnesota.

During his tenure, Patrick served as Vice President and General Manager for multiple divisions, including leading 3M’s largest division for six years. He later became President of 3M’s operations in West Europe, overseeing strategy, growth, and organizational transformation across the region.

Since retiring, Patrick has continued to contribute his expertise by serving on the boards of both for‑profit and non‑profit organizations. He also supports his son in managing a multi‑state manufacturing company specializing in CNC machining, plastic injection molding, and parts distribution for tire shops.

Patrick is the founder of TeraOpenScience LLC, a global platform designed to connect students, faculty, and professionals in a multidisciplinary ecosystem that accelerates real‑world innovation.

He studied Applied Sciences, is fluent in four languages, and is a certified Six Sigma belt. Patrick is married and the proud father of one son, a daughter‑in‑law, and two grandchildren.