Pack Expo International engages next gen workforce

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Pack Expo International engages next gen workforce

22 Aug 2024

Lily Cota

Lily Cota is a writer, editor and photographer from Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in English and a minor in Photography. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading fantasy novels, thrifting, trying out local coffee shops and spending time with her nieces.

CHICAGO — Pack Expo International, the world’s largest packaging and processing show, scheduled for Nov. 3-6 at McCormick Place in Chicago, is addressing the critical skills shortage with comprehensive programs designed to engage and inspire the next generation of manufacturing industry professionals.

The expo, produced by PMMI, will feature a variety of activities created to provide high school and college students with opportunities within the industry.

“These initiatives reflect our commitment to bridging the skills gap in the packaging and processing industries,” says Laura Thompson, VP, trade shows for PMMI. “By connecting students with industry leaders and exposing them to real-world challenges and solutions at Pack Expo International, we are not only addressing immediate workforce needs but also investing in the future of our industries.”

Activities and events include:

Girl Scout Event | Nov. 3 11 a.m.

Local Chicago Girl Scout Troops will meet in the Student Lounge for a hands-on project focused on sustainability. Scouts will receive credit for their Sustainable Packaging Patch. Lunch will be provided along with a panel and show floor tour from industry professionals.

Silent Auction, Foundation Fundraiser | Nov. 3-6

The Silent Auction will feature biddable items including accommodation at top Chicago-area hotels as well as premium wine and spirits, gift cards and more. All bidding will occur virtually with items displayed on the Grand Concourse, Level 2.5. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the PMMI Foundation.

PACK Challenge | Nov. 3-6

This event, sponsored by PepsiCo, is returning for its second year and will invite six high school teams to participate in a machine-building competition. Teams will construct full-scale material-handling machines capable of separating and orientating paper coffee cups. They will be evaluated on their final design, sustainability component, operator training and successful runs. The event will take place in the West Hall Lobby at Booth W-16005. The winning team will showcase their design next year at Pack Expo Las Vegas.

Future Innovators Robotics Showcase

Sponsored by Schneider Electric, attendees of this event will witness cutting-edge robotics from high school teams nationwide. Students will showcase their design, engineering and troubleshooting skills in the West Hall at Booth W-21052.

“By connecting students with industry leaders and exposing them to real-world challenges and solutions at Pack Expo International, we are not only addressing immediate workforce needs but also investing in the future of our industries.” — Laura Thompson | VP, trade shows | PMMI

Amazing Packaging Race

This competition is sponsored by Emerson and involves college and university students from across North America who will navigate the expo floor and engage in tasks set by participating exhibitors.

Students PACK the EXPO | Nov. 5

PMMI will host local area students from Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin for a comprehensive expo experience. Students will partake in a scavenger hunt, tours and a lunch-and-learn session to further their knowledge of the industry.

Student Tours | Nov. 3-6, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tours of the show floor will be conducted daily and will begin at the PMMI U/PMMI Foundation Booth at W-20022. No pre-registration is required. Students should meet at the booth 10 minutes prior to the starting time.

Pack Expo International 2024 will also future dedicated spaces for networking and professional development, including:

PMMI U/Workforce Development Pavilion

In the West Hall, 16 colleges and universities will showcase their mechatronics and packaging and processing programs. Companies will have the opportunity to engage with students interested in pursuing careers in the industry.

Networking Events

These networking events, hosted by the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network, aim to connect aspiring professionals with industry experts.

Student Lounge

PMMI HR professionals will conduct workshops focused on interview best practices and resume writing to equip students with the tools needed to enter the workforce.

For more information on the student activities, visit the Pack Expo website.

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