Ellen Kullman Photograph by Stuart Isett/Fortune Global Forum

3D printing unicorn Carbon has announced the appointment of Ellen Kullman, of DuPont fame, as its new CEO, with current CEO Joseph DeSimone transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman. Kullman who has been a board member at Carbon since 2016 will remain as one as she serves as CEO. Carbon touts the leadership change as one that has been “worked on to prepare the company for its next chapter”, which we speculate is an IPO.

As CEO, Kullman will lead the development and execution of short- and long-term strategies, a Carbon press release said, while DeSimone transitions to a role that doesn’t entail much day-to-day management. As Executive Chairman, DeSimone will focus on growing adoption of the 3D printing company’s Digital Manufacturing Platform, and pushing the company’s vision to existing and prospective customers, partners and the general public.

DeSimone, who was previously a professor at the University of North Carolina for more than two decades, founded Carbon in 2013, and has led the company up until now. As a professor, DeSimone conducted research in several chemistry related areas, including green chemistry, medical devices, and nanotechnology. He’s received international recognition as a scientist and entrepreneur, earning major accolades such as the U.S. Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award, the Lemelson-MIT Prize, and an award of the (U.S.) National Medal of Technology and Innovation.

Joseph DeSimone (left) and Ellen Kullman image: Carbon

Just like DeSimone, Kullman who is taking over is sort of a top-gun in her field, that is the corporate world. She previously held the role of CEO at chemicals giant DuPont for seven years. Also, she serves on the boards of United Technologies, Dell Technologies, Amgen and Goldman Sachs. At DuPont, she was the first woman to lead the company in its 212-year history.

“Today’s announcement is a great honor,” Kullman said in a statement. “I am privileged to have spent the last few years on the Carbon board working alongside Joe, one of the greatest entrepreneurs and scientists of our time. Joe has built Carbon into the world’s leading digital manufacturing platform, and as President and CEO of Carbon, I am excited to partner with Joe and build on the solid foundations he’s put into place.” she said.

“For the last six years, I have led Carbon as Chief Executive Officer and am enormously proud of what we’ve accomplished during my tenure,” DeSimone added. “I know what we will accomplish under Ellen will be even more extraordinary. Ellen is the right person to lead Carbon today. She has broad experience across multiple businesses, cycles, and geographies. Her vision, outstanding leadership traits, and distinguished track record will continue to drive Carbon’s growth into the future. In assuming the Executive Chairman role, I will be able to focus on evangelizing the platform and driving adoption more widely.”