In the heart of Houston, the Chao family silently yet powerfully navigates the realms of industry and philanthropy. Founders of Westlake Corp., one of the largest U.S. companies by revenue, the Chao family has strategically driven the company’s growth while maintaining a modest public profile. As reported by Forbes, the Chao siblings—Dorothy Chao Jenkins, Albert Chao, and James Chao—are among America’s wealthiest, showcasing a unique blend of business acumen and community involvement.
Originating from Suzhou, China, Ting Tsung “T.T.” Chao and Wei Fong established their presence in the petrochemical sector in Taiwan before relocating to Houston in the 1980s. This move marked a pivotal moment for the family, leading to the founding of Westlake Chemical Corp. in 1986, starting with a polyethylene plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Over nearly four decades, Westlake Corp. has expanded its portfolio, marking its territory in polymers, building products, and more, growing its net sales to $12.1 billion in 2024.
Westlake Corp.’s evolution is marked by strategic acquisitions and facility expansions, underscoring its status as a major PVC producer. The company’s rebranding in 2022 from Westlake Chemical Corp. to Westlake Corp. reflects an adaptive strategy to cater to diverse industries, including automotive, construction, and healthcare. Albert Chao’s leadership has been instrumental, serving as president and CEO during transformative phases, with the corporation boasting a robust market presence and a valuation of approximately $14.1 billion.
Crucially, the Chao family holds substantial ownership in Westlake Corp., with over 93.4 million shares as of March 2024, translating to a significant financial stake valued at about $10.25 billion. Despite these figures, the Chao siblings prefer discretion, eschewing the limelight in favor of focusing on impactful ventures.
Their philanthropic arm, the Chao Family Foundation, exemplifies their commitment beyond business. In 2007, the foundation pledged $15 million to Rice University to develop a Center for Asian Studies, a testament to the family’s dedication to educational and cultural enrichment. The family’s civic contributions were further recognized in 2023 when they were awarded the Robert C. McNair Civic Leadership Award by the Greater Houston Partnership, marking the first time a family, rather than an individual, received this honor. This accolade highlights their sustained commitment to volunteerism and philanthropy within the Houston community.
As Albert Chao expressed during the award ceremony, the family’s recognition as first-generation immigrants underscores the multicultural tapestry of Houston. Their journey from China to becoming influential figures in Houston’s corporate and societal landscape serves as a compelling narrative of perseverance, strategic foresight, and community engagement.
Today, the Chao family continues to quietly shape Houston, maintaining leadership roles in Westlake Corp. while supporting civic and charitable initiatives. Their legacy is one of impactful contributions to both economic growth and social development within the city, a testament to their enduring influence as both business leaders and philanthropists.