What's Happening?
Penn College Workforce Development is offering a series of seven polymer workshops designed to combine classroom lectures with hands-on lab experience. These workshops aim to enhance participants' understanding of polymer materials and processes, such
as extrusion, molding, and thermoforming. The series, which began with the Extrusion Seminar & Hands-On Workshop in 1999, has evolved to meet industry demands over the years. Last summer, 69 participants from 13 states attended the workshops. The program coordinator, Beth J. Zielewicz, highlights the hands-on lab exercises as a key attraction, providing practical skills that attendees can apply in their work. The workshops are open to anyone, including sole proprietors and entrepreneurs, and cover topics like Color Science & Weathering, Plastics 101, and Injection Molding Processing Fundamentals.
Why It's Important?
The workshops offered by Penn College Workforce Development are crucial for advancing skills in the polymer industry, which is vital for manufacturing and product development. By providing practical, hands-on training, these workshops help participants improve their technical skills, leading to better job performance and career advancement. The program supports the industry's need for skilled workers who can optimize processes, reduce errors, and enhance product quality. This initiative not only benefits individual participants but also contributes to the competitiveness and innovation of the U.S. manufacturing sector, particularly in plastics and related fields.
What's Next?
The upcoming workshops will continue to provide valuable training opportunities for industry professionals. Participants can expect to gain insights into advanced materials and processes, which can lead to improved operational efficiency and innovation in their respective companies. The workshops also offer networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers and industry experts. As the demand for skilled workers in the polymer industry grows, Penn College's commitment to workforce development will play a significant role in meeting this need and supporting economic growth.
