Small Talks: Tips for Young Plastic Engineers from Jake Kelly-Walley

The rotomolding industry thrives on creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement, offering young professionals immense opportunities.

In a recent interview, Jake Kelly-Walley, R&D Engineer at Matrix Polymers and PhD Researcher at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), shared insights on the challenges and innovations in the rotational molding industry, as well as how to inspire the next generation of plastics engineers in rotomolding.

You can also read: Elevate Your Career with SPE’s Essentials of Management & Leadership in Plastics

Young engineers and researchers entering the field have the potential to make significant contributions that drive progress and innovation. It is essential to approach work with the right mindset. According to Jake, these are a few pieces of advice to be followed.

1. Speak Up and Share Opinions

Even as young professionals, engineers and researchers should not hesitate to voice their ideas and opinions. Fresh perspectives often spark innovation, so it is important to share thoughts and insights confidently. At the same time, staying open to feedback and refining ideas through collaboration is crucial. The rotomolding industry values diverse viewpoints, making these contributions highly impactful.

2. Learn from Experienced Engineers

While innovative ideas are vital, learning from experienced engineers is equally important. Seasoned professionals in the field possess invaluable knowledge of machine operations, material properties, and troubleshooting techniques. Mentorship from experienced engineers accelerates growth and helps avoid common mistakes. More effective results can be achieved by combining innovative ideas with the expertise of seasoned professionals.

3. Gain a Wide Range of Experiences

It is important for young professionals to gain experience in various areas such as manufacturing, material testing, and research. This exposure broadens understanding of the rotomolding industry and sharpens problem-solving skills. By experiencing different aspects of the industry, engineers and researchers become more adaptable and better equipped to tackle challenges from multiple angles.

4. Build Networks Through Industry Societies and Chapters

Networking is critical for career development, and active participation in professional organizations, such as the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) and the Association of Rotational Molders (ARM), plays a key role. Joining these societies enables young professionals to build connections, exchange knowledge, and stay informed about industry trends. Networking also opens doors to collaboration opportunities, job prospects, and valuable insights.

5. Understand the Entire Business

It is essential to understand the broader business landscape beyond technical expertise. Engineers and researchers should invest time in learning about marketing, supply chains, and customer needs, as these elements are closely linked to their technical work. Understanding how technical skills fit into larger business operations equips young professionals to make more strategic decisions that benefit the company as a whole.

Embracing the Opportunities Ahead

The rotomolding industry provides young engineers and researchers with abundant opportunities for innovation and growth. By sharing ideas, learning from experienced professionals, gaining diverse experiences, building strong networks, and understanding the business, young professionals position themselves for success. Embracing these principles allows them to leave a lasting impact on this dynamic industry and shape its future in meaningful ways.