The next generation of leaders were honored for their accomplishments and commitment to the packaging and processing industry.
Oct 29, 2024
PMMI honors the 10 best and brightest young professionals in the packaging and processing industry with the On the Rise Award.
For the seventh time, PMMI chose the Annual Meeting stage (Hershey, Pa.) to honor the 10 best and brightest young professionals in the packaging and processing industry with the On the Rise Award. PMMI’s Emerging Leaders Committee developed the awards program to recognize young professionals with leadership potential in packaging and processing. Each comes from a different background and provides a unique, forward-thinking perspective. OEM Magazine was fortunate to speak with each one and offer a glimpse into these outstanding rising stars in the industry.
Cole Anderson
PDC International Corp
During a global pandemic, when industries worldwide faced unprecedented challenges, Cole Anderson, assembly manager at PDC International Corp., encountered an unexpected opportunity. This chance encounter marked the beginning of a journey into the world of packaging.
Anderson quickly earned the respect of his more senior co-workers with his advanced technical skills, attention to detail, and leadership qualities when he came on board as a machine assembler. He was promoted to assembly manager and implemented process improvements in the assembly department. Now, 90% of the machines are assembled on- or under-budget. On-time delivery schedules are met consistently, and the company is better prepared for factory acceptance tests. Anderson chairs PDC International’s mid-management EOS Leadership team, and through his direction, communication among the engineering, inventory, machine shop, and assembly departments has improved immensely, resulting in better workflow and morale.
One of Anderson's early challenges was transitioning from managing a few tasks on the production floor to overseeing numerous projects, which was a daunting shift. It required a new level of organization and communication, skills that were honed through trial and error. Developing a personalized system for notetaking and project management became essential, as did fostering open lines of communication with colleagues. This collaborative approach ensured that projects stayed on track and deadlines were met.
Collaboration and open dialogue have been pivotal in navigating these changes. Anderson emphasizes the value of discussing ideas with colleagues, regardless of age or experience. Such exchanges often reveal insights that might otherwise be overlooked, leading to improved solutions and strategies.
The diversity of projects encountered in this role adds an element of excitement and unpredictability. Each new task brings the opportunity to work on different products, requiring tailored solutions for sleeve or neckband applications. This variety keeps the work engaging and offers a constant stream of learning experiences.
Looking ahead, Anderson’s focus is on modernizing internal processes and enhancing interdepartmental communication. By updating the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) protocol and documentation, the aim is to align them with contemporary standards and accurately reflect the equipment's capabilities. Improving feedback mechanisms between departments is also a priority, with the goal of boosting efficiency and ensuring the delivery of high-quality machinery.
Carolyn Chase
FANUC America Corporation
With nine years at FANUC America Corporation, Senior Engineer Carolyn Chase has transitioned from a co-op intern to a section lead, overseeing the development of the LR Mate Series of small, articulated industrial robots. Her leadership in global development discussions with FANUC Japan has supported the growth of this product line, which now includes 12 variants, such as food-grade systems.
Chase's journey into the industry began in 2015 during her undergraduate program, where she discovered her passion for the work done by the General Industries Segment at FANUC. Her role involves troubleshooting customer applications and developing new robots tailored for packaging applications. Despite initial challenges, such as a steep learning curve when transitioning to a product manager role, she quickly adapted by leveraging training resources and seeking guidance from colleagues.
Her commitment to the industry is evident in her active participation in mentoring new hires and interns, as well as her involvement in marketing and sales through the development of trade show demonstrations. Chase is also a member of an employee resource group and continues to enhance her skills through training in application engineering and SolidWorks CAD.
Chase is particularly focused on trends in automation within the food packaging sector and the increasing demand for user-friendly equipment. The push for automation aims to reduce human contact and boost production efficiency while ease of use minimizes training time for operators. Her dedication to aligning product development with these market demands underscores her role as a key player in the evolving landscape of material handling robotics.
John Diamond
BW Flexible Systems
The path to success often begins with an unexpected turn. For John Diamond, sales executive at BW Flexible Systems, that turn came in 2021 when a recruiter reached out with an intriguing proposition. With a background in sales and no prior experience in packaging, the opportunity seemed daunting yet irresistibly challenging. This leap of faith marked the beginning of a journey defined by curiosity, dedication, and a commitment to learning.
Diamond either sold or helped sell all the CM Verus systems in North America in fiscal 2023, enabling the company to meet 160% of its target for units sold. He won the David Imig MVP Award for outstanding sales performance in his first full year with BW Flexible Systems. He introduced existing customers to other Barry-Wehmiller Packaging companies to strengthen bonds and provide turnkey solutions from the company portfolio. Despite only being with BW Flexible Systems for two years, John has already sold over $12.5 million in new equipment, serving many customers and delivering substantial growth for his territory.
However, the transition into the packaging sector was not without hurdles. Diamond's lack of industry experience meant he had to immerse himself in the intricacies of the business. This involved setting aside personal pride and embracing a mindset of continuous learning. By asking questions, studying schematics, and engaging with customers, he gradually built a foundation of knowledge. This approach, driven by a daily goal of learning something new, proved instrumental in overcoming initial obstacles and achieving success.
Central to his journey was a philosophy that placed the customer at the heart of every decision. In navigating the often complex relationship between customer needs and business interests, the ability to set aside personal ego proved invaluable. By prioritizing the best interests of both parties, a bridge was built, fostering trust and mutual benefit. This approach strengthened customer relationships and reinforced the belief that taking care of the customer ultimately leads to reciprocal care.
The fascination with the inner workings of food manufacturing added another layer of excitement to Diamond’s role. Each day felt like stepping into an episode of "How It's Made," offering a behind-the-scenes look at the processes that bring everyday products to life. This passion for understanding production mechanics fueled a sense of purpose and pride in contributing to cost-efficient packaging solutions
Looking ahead, Diamond’s future at BW Packaging appears promising. He aspires to lead a sales team and focuses on helping others achieve success. This desire to learn through teaching underscores a commitment to growth and development, both personally and within the organization.
Alfonso Gil
Mettler Toledo – Product Inspection
Alfonso Gil, a sales engineer at Mettler Toledo – Product Inspection, has swiftly established himself as a key player since joining two years ago. Initially entering the industry with a mechanical engineering degree, Gil has developed a deep understanding of metal detection and X-ray inspection technologies. His ability to quote complex, customized machines has been instrumental in supporting the company's operations.
Gil's bilingual skills and process knowledge have been particularly valuable as Mettler Toledo's global marketing organizations transition to SAP. He volunteered to assist in Mexico’s implementation process, where his fluency in both languages and his deep understanding of processes became invaluable assets. Additionally, he has been involved in testing a Smart Request for Quote portal, ensuring its logic and functionality meet the company's standards. His curiosity and desire for improvement have led him to venture into new areas—studying web design and programming in C++, as well as exploring other product inspection technologies at the company.
His journey in the industry, encouraged by a family friend, has been marked by a commitment to learning and collaboration. Despite initial challenges due to a lack of experience, Gil has actively sought mentorship and engaged with team members to bridge the knowledge gap. This blend of technical training, teamwork, and practical application helped him overcome the initial hurdles and deliver tailored solutions to clients with confidence.
Gil's role offers a unique perspective on the importance of product inspection solutions in maintaining safety and quality standards. His exposure to various engineering applications and consumer products before they reach the market has been both fulfilling and motivating.
The collaborative environment at Mettler Toledo, characterized by a talented and diverse team, has been a significant source of inspiration for Gil. The support and creativity fostered within the team have encouraged him to strive for excellence and contribute positively to the workplace.
As a young leader, Alfonso Gil is not just focused on continuous learning, but also aspires to further his education at one of the top five business universities to enhance his leadership capabilities. His dedication to serving others and empowering his colleagues underscores his commitment to driving positive outcomes within the organization, instilling confidence in his potential and future contributions.
Cody Halminiak
Morrison Container Handling Solutions
The path from aerospace engineering to the world of packaging machinery is not a typical one. Yet, for Cody Halminiak, mechanical design engineer at Morrison Container Handling Solutions, this unexpected journey has become a testament to the power of adaptability and perseverance. The story begins in 2021 when a senior at Arizona State University found his plans disrupted by the global pandemic. With a co-op program at an airline company canceled, he returned to Illinois and joined Morrison as an intern with a friend, a decision that would set the stage for a promising career.
Halminiak led the design of the Twist Blocks addition to Morrison CHS’s inverting product line. As he moved from engineer to product manager, he worked with other departments to improve part stocking, reduce costs, and foster continuous improvement. His work on Twist Blocks inspired Cody to integrate the technology into air rinsing systems to cut costs while improving flexibility versus traditional stainless-steel twists. Cody has helped the engineering team shift to a more standardized approach, improving the bottom line, particularly for safety-related products like perimeter guards.
Initially, the transition was anything but smooth. The complexities of design concepts, machining principles, and process flows presented significant challenges. However, rather than being deterred, he embraced the opportunity to learn. Late nights and countless conversations with shop personnel became the norm, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas on machining and engineering practices could flourish. This dedication not only bridged his knowledge gap but also paved the way for him to become a leader within the team.
One of the most captivating aspects of his role is his ability to oversee projects from inception to completion. This comprehensive view allows him to identify how each step impacts the next, offering insights into potential improvements. This holistic understanding fuels his passion for research and development, particularly in prototype projects. These initiatives provide a platform for learning and innovation, revealing new materials, design approaches, and machining techniques.
Looking ahead, he remains committed to his core learning and teaching values. With Morrison supporting his journey, he is poised to continue contributing to the company's success while nurturing his own professional growth. As he navigates this path, he remains optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead, driven by a desire to help others and enhance operational efficiency.
His advice to fellow emerging leaders reflects his journey: remain open-minded, commit to continuous learning, and exercise patience.
Santos Maltez
Sneed Coding Systems
Hailing from Houston, Santos Maltez, key account manager, Sneed Coding Systems, spent nearly a decade in the oil and gas sector, a field known for its volatility. Coincidentally, his journey there began in the packaging department, where he handled steel parts for downhole oil applications. Despite surviving several industry downturns, the pandemic brought an unexpected halt to his career, leaving him among the millions suddenly jobless.
In September 2020, after months of uncertainty and countless job applications, Maltez found a new path with Sneed Coding Solutions. With guidance from seasoned colleagues Ken Mogensen and Charles Collins, Maltez quickly immersed himself in the intricacies of his new industry.
Transitioning to a new industry presented its own set of challenges. Maltez had to navigate the vast packaging landscape, learning about its diverse customer base and technical complexities. His approach was straightforward: embrace transparency and maintain a willingness to learn. This mindset proved invaluable, especially when he and colleague Alexa Marmolejo took the stage at EXPO PACK Guadalajara. The experience, though nerve-wracking, underscored the importance of preparation and adaptability.
For fellow emerging leaders, Maltez offers sage advice: remain open to learning, network with peers, and embrace experiences outside one's comfort zone. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding stagnation and continually seeking growth.
The most rewarding aspect of Maltez's role is witnessing the evolution of small businesses into industry powerhouses. Each company's journey is unique, and playing a part in their growth is both inspiring and fulfilling. Building lasting relationships with customers and helping them navigate their challenges is what drives him to excel.
Looking ahead, Maltez envisions taking on greater leadership responsibilities at Sneed, mentoring others, and tackling complex projects that challenge industry norms. His commitment to growth and innovation positions him as a key player in shaping the future of his field. As he continues to build on his successes, Maltez remains focused on contributing to a dynamic and ever-changing industry.
Maltez is the top sales rep/account manager for Sneed Coding Solutions’ biggest and most valuable customers, a ranking he has established in less than four years. Customers love his attention to detail when specing their equipment for proposals. His guidance through the purchasing process gives them a five-star experience and earned President’s Club recognition in 2021 and the Salesperson of the Year award in 2023. He shares his knowledge with colleagues, mentors younger reps, and coaches them on sales. He continually reads on sales techniques and strategies and enrolls in webinars to improve his knowledge and enhance his skills.
Mike Scritchfield
Viking Masek Packaging Technologies
Mike Scritchfield, regional sales manager at Viking Masek Packaging Technologies, found himself at a crossroads. Transitioning from a career in BioPharma operations to a new role in packaging sales, he faced the daunting task of adapting to a new industry under unprecedented circumstances. Yet, this very challenge underscored the importance of community and adaptability, two elements that have become central to his success at Viking Masek Packaging Technologies.
Scritchfield's journey into the packaging world began through a serendipitous connection with a member of the Viking Masek community. This relationship blossomed into a friendship, ultimately leading him to join the company. Reflecting on this pivotal decision, he regards it as one of the best choices of his life, second only to marrying his wife. The sense of belonging and support he found within the Viking Masek team became his anchor during the tumultuous early days of his new career.
As a newcomer to sales and the packaging sector, Scritchfield encountered numerous obstacles. The pandemic added an extra layer of complexity, making him question his decision. However, his camaraderie and willingness to help from his colleagues gave him the strength to persevere. By staying connected and consistently seeking guidance, he was able to navigate the challenges and grow into his role.
His advice to emerging leaders emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness and coachability. Scritchfield believes that finding answers and embracing coaching are crucial traits for success. This mindset of continuous improvement and openness to learning has propelled him forward in his career.
The most fascinating aspect of Scritchfield's job lies in the innovative developments his team creates. These advancements aim to simplify the packaging experience throughout the lifecycle of a product, a mission he is deeply passionate about.
Looking ahead, Scritchfield is eager to explore the "science of selling" further, focusing on building lasting partnerships with customers and enhancing efficiency from sales to delivery. With a solid understanding of Viking Masek's offerings, he is also excited to expand his network beyond the organization, seeking new collaborations and relationships through platforms like PMMI.
A member of the Viking Masek team for four years, Scritchfield increased revenue in his territory by 122% in 2023 despite softer demand and is on track to best that performance by another 36% in 2024, even though demand seems to have plateaued. To ensure his customers receive top priority, Mike set a goal in January 2024 to respond to all inbound leads in less than 10 minutes and has achieved that target for the first half of the year. He has collected multiple internal awards for outstanding sales achievements, including the highest quote-to-close ratio, currently at 39%.
Victoria Sithy
Felins, Inc.
Victoria Sithy's career trajectory at Felins, Inc. is a testament to aligning personal values with professional ambitions. Starting her journey as a Customer Service Representative, Sithy found herself drawn to the company's commitment to sustainability. This alignment not only provided her with a sense of purpose but also paved the way for her transition into the Marketing department, where she has thrived for over five years.
Sithy faced the daunting task of building confidence amidst the fast-paced changes and high expectations that characterize the industry. She credits her success to the mentorship she received from seasoned colleagues and her proactive approach to professional development. By surrounding herself with knowledgeable individuals and embracing a growth mindset, she transformed challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.
Her advice to emerging leaders emphasizes the importance of intuition. Sithy believes that while logic and data are crucial, trusting one's instincts can be equally valuable, especially in situations requiring swift decision-making. This balance between analytical thinking and gut feeling has been a guiding principle in her career.
The dynamic nature of her role in marketing continues to captivate Sithy. The intersection of creativity, strategy, and technology keeps her engaged, as each day presents new challenges and opportunities. The collaborative environment at Felins, Inc. further fuels her enthusiasm, as she thrives on the exchange of ideas and the collective creativity that drives impactful strategies.
Looking ahead, Sithy is focused on uplifting those around her. She aims to foster a culture of support and recognition within her organization, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. By creating an environment where talent and kindness are celebrated, she hopes to inspire others to rise alongside her.
Sithy has spearheaded Felins’ digital marketing efforts with remarkable success. Under her guidance, website traffic has grown by 25% over five years,while LinkedIn followers have surged 365%. An initiative to improve the EEAT (experience, expertise, authoritativeness, trustworthiness) rating of the website not only improved the company’s digital presence but also fostered a culture of collaboration by coordinating efforts across departments and encouraging employees to contribute blog posts, optimize their LinkedIn profiles, and create professional biographies. Victoria also has worked to establish a strong, unified brand identity and skillfully managed tradeshow demos. Committed to continuous learning, she has pursued certification and training. She participates in PMMI’s MaX marketing meeting and the Manufacturing Marketers Roundtable.
Alex Vargo
Lako Tool & Manufacturing
As Vice President of Manufacturing at Lako Tool & Manufacturing, Inc., Alex Vargo's path into the industry was as unexpected as it was transformative. Initially hired as a CNC programmer, he quickly immersed himself in the field's intricacies, leveraging his manufacturing engineering degree and his logistics experience from his time in the United States Marine Corps Reserves.
Vargo has used his military experience to bring more discipline to the organization and maintenance of the shop. The facilities are more visually appealing, and production time has been cut by making parts and key components more accessible. He has been instrumental in upgrading Lako’s programming methodology and streamlining its ability to shorten lead times. He started with Lako as a programmer, was promoted to head programmer within six months, and named to his current assignment, design engineering, two years later.
Vargo's ascent in the industry has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles he faced was adapting his leadership style to effectively manage a team often older and more experienced than himself. This required a delicate balance of humility and assertiveness, recognizing the wealth of knowledge his team possessed while fostering a collaborative environment. By valuing the input of his colleagues and empowering them, Vargo has cultivated a respectful and productive workplace, earning the trust and respect of his team.
Vargo's approach to leadership is rooted in proactive problem-solving and critical thinking. He encourages emerging leaders to voice their ideas and solutions, drawing from advice given to him during his machinist apprenticeship before his time at Lako: always present potential solutions alongside problems. This mindset demonstrates initiative and fosters collaboration and innovation, critical components in driving organizational success.
The most captivating aspect of Vargo's role is his ability to drive change and streamline processes. With a focus on lean manufacturing principles, he constantly seeks ways to enhance efficiency and optimize operations. This dedication to improvement excites him about his work, as each day presents new challenges and opportunities to lead his team toward common goals.
Dinesh Vasabakthula
Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT)
Dinesh Vasabakthula, the Controls Software Lead Engineer at Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), has carved a niche in the packaging automation sector. His career began in a product company that exposed him to various industrial automation verticals, and he found the packaging industry particularly engaging. His journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding industry trends and balancing existing knowledge and emerging needs.
In his role, Vasabakthula finds excitement in the daily challenges and opportunities to engage with new people and companies. He likens his work to a treasure hunt, where each day presents new problems to solve and lessons to learn. This dynamic environment fuels his passion and keeps him motivated.
His contributions at AMT have been significant, particularly in developing standards for data integration platforms that connect software and data sources to business applications. These efforts have enhanced profit margins and enabled the company to tackle more complex projects. Vasabakthula's ability to impress clients and his reputation for excellence has made him a sought-after project engineer.
As a mentor and coach, Vasabakthula inspires his colleagues to exceed their perceived limits. He continues to advance his professional development by pursuing certifications in controls software platforms and safety standards, further solidifying his expertise in the field. Looking ahead, he aims to grow as a leader, focusing on industry trends to make impactful contributions.
Vasabakthula identifies connected industry, data-driven processes, and open automation as key sector trends. His approach to overcoming career obstacles involves deeply understanding these trends while continuously improving his expertise. This strategy has helped him navigate challenges and positioned him as a leader in his field.
