The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) will introduce the first-ever National Plastics Conference on Oct. 14-17 in Houston. Designed “by industry, for industry,” it is a comprehensive experience uniting the entire plastics value chain for industry-driven education, collaboration and progress.
“The plastics industry is a community, and we see the National Plastics Conference as its annual gathering,” said Matt Seaholm, president and CEO of PLASTICS. “There was no place where that sense of community was more evident than at NPE2024, but NPE only happens once every three years. The National Plastics Conference is going to be where the entire value chain comes together to discuss the most important issues of the day and the future of the industry. I’m very excited to see everyone in Houston this year and watch this annual conference grow in the years to come.”
Drawing from a rich well of knowledge
The National Plastics Conference agenda offers networking events, expert insights, strategic best practices, leadership knowledge and a place where individuals and their companies can make the inroads they need to thrive. The event includes sessions on innovative trends in technology, sustainability, public policy communication, the latest market forecasts and much more. Attendees can equip their teams with best practices and forge valuable connections that drive innovation and growth.
“Building the agenda for the National Plastics Conference has been an incredible experience,” said Apryl Alexander-Savino, senior director of marketing & events at PLASTICS. “We’re presenting innovators and thought leaders from every corner of the industry. We also have outside-the-industry perspectives to address challenges facing the entire plastics value chain. Attendees will also delve into culture, workforce development, consumer sentiment, and how this year’s elections will impact business in 2025 and beyond.”
Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing readers will be particularly interested in hearing from members of the PLASTICS Equipment Council, such as Vanessa Malena — president of Engel Americas — who will speak about “Recruiting a future-ready workforce.” Plus, attendees will find unique networking opportunities at a joint reception hosted by the Equipment Council and the PLASTICS Recycling Committee. “We are also modeling some of the content and tracks from past Equipment and Moldmakers Leadership Summits,” said Whitney Taveras, PLASTICS’ director of industry engagement (equipment). “We want to ensure we are delivering content relevant and meaningful to our equipment membership.”
Providing a diversified experience
Industry professionals from throughout the value chain are encouraged to attend and enjoy an unparalleled opportunity to gather productively with industry peers. Whether you’re leading the charge from the C-suite, shaping the future as an emerging leader, or driving success across various functions, this event offers unparalleled value for every member of your team.
Also on the agenda is a cleanup event organized by Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP), the association’s group for industry professionals under the age of 40. These cleanups have proven to be a popular and enjoyable opportunity for PLASTICS conference attendees in recent years and all are invited to participate. They provide a fun atmosphere in which people with diverse backgrounds and experiences from across their various organizational charts can enjoy one another’s company as they work toward a shared environmental goal.
The National Plastics Conference advisory board has curated a program focused on leadership development, cutting-edge advancements and market trends, with sustainability woven throughout. This industry-led event is your chance to collaborate and lead the future of the plastics industry. Network with colleagues and explore leadership, advocacy, and market trends, all while focusing on a sustainable future. Register today at www.nationalplasticsconference.org.
