Entering the Plastic Manufacturing Industry
Whether you’re a prospective college student or you have years of experience in the working world, there’s an abundance of things to know if you’ve discovered and have an interest in the plastic manufacturing industry. If you’re interested in manufacturing, wonderful! There are many manufacturing jobs available across different specialties – engineering, equipment handling and operating, analytics, design, etc.
To begin, identify what exactly you’re interested in doing within the manufacturing industry. If you want to go into engineering or a related field, you will need to attain a degree in chemistry, industrial engineering, plastics engineering, or another similar study. If you’re entering a university and aren’t sure what the exact focus area should be, talk to an advisor. Once you receive your degree or are working to receive your degree, it’s important to get some hands-on, direct experience either through an internship, apprenticeship or entry-level job.
In school you’ll learn the basics and the depth of the manufacturing process. This will move you forward, but without applying that knowledge and exploring the industry on your own, your knowledge can only take you so far. If you’re struggling to find an internship or entry-level job, you are not alone. Check out sites like Indeed or LinkedIn to get a basic understanding of the jobs available around you and then reach out directly to the company after applying. This is a great opportunity to showcase your abilities, personality, and motivation beyond a basic job application. Ask your prospective employer questions that may not have been addressed in the job listing or application.
Even if you don’t want to be an engineer, higher education is never a bad idea or investment – but it’s not always a deal breaker in the working world. Experience alone can speak volumes for a prospective employer. So, what if you don’t have a degree or experience in the manufacturing industry? This is also not a deal breaker. Fortunately, the manufacturing industry is growing as you read this, and more jobs are becoming available and necessary every day. You have an opportunity to meet a need! Many employers will pay you to go through training with the result being your employment for the promise of a minimum amount of time worked for them. Even if the company doesn’t turn out to be your perfect fit, you will now be qualified for many other jobs after receiving certain certifications and training.
One of the hardest parts about living your adult life is simply deciding what you want to do with it. If you’re interested and excited about being a part of the manufacturing industry, a lot of stress is already over. You have an opportunity to be a part of a field that is constantly growing and evolving.
