Recognizing the need for a formal social networking system specific to the petrochemical industry as it operates in the Northeastern US and Canada, the Northeastern Chemical Association was founded in 1977 in New York City.

NECA was also formed in recognition of the need for industry support for the education of future generations working in the petrochemical industry.

Today, NECA has 197 members, representing 164 companies and 23  states and provinces.