Press release submitted on behalf of AIM/PennWest.
The American Injection Molding Institute (AIM) and Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest) announce a strategic partnership to develop a concentration in Plastics Injection Molding under the PennWest Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology (AAS-AT) degree.
This collaboration offers students a unique opportunity to fast-track their education and careers in the injection molding industry, addressing the growing demand for workplace-ready employees. Additionally, graduates of AIM’s ANSI/ASTM accredited programs can receive up to 25 Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credits toward the degree.
Key Highlights of the Program:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Through AIM coursework, students will learn about plastics materials, mold design, injection molding processing, part design, and Autodesk Moldflow simulation with a focus on real-world applications and industry-based outcomes. The PennWest coursework is specifically selected to further the students’ learning with courses that prepare students for a variety of jobs within the industry including process engineer, Autodesk Moldflow analyst, product designer, project engineer, tooling
engineer, etc. - Unique Learning Environment: The program utilizes a unique model, providing students hands-on training at The AIM Institute’s state-of-the-art Injection Molding Lab while attending one of the multiple PennWest University campuses and completing courses either in-person or online.
- World-Class Instruction: The AIM Institute is home to the first programs in the plastic injection molding industry to be accredited to the ANSI/ASTM E2659 education standard. Their courses are taught by recognized plastics engineers who have worked in a variety of design and manufacturing positions in the industry.
- Opportunities for Career Advancement: Graduates who complete the degree program gain a competitive edge through exceptional instruction, real-time networking, and will also receive the following certificates and accreditations:
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- AAS-AT degree with a concentration in Plastics Injection Molding
- ANSI Accredited Plastics Technology & Engineering (PTE) Certificate
- ANSI Accredited Molding 1 Certificate
- ANSI Accredited Molding 2 Certificate
- Autodesk Moldflow Associate Certification
- OSHA-30 Certification
“The unique structure of this degree improves workforce readiness and the ability to drive innovation by designing the curriculum with rigorous academic instruction combined with practical hands-on experience,” said David Hoffman, Director, AIM Institute.
This program is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2025; however, students can begin completing AIM coursework immediately.
“We are thrilled to partner with AIM to provide students with an accelerated path to academic success,” said Dr. James D. Fisher, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at PennWest. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to recognizing real-world skills and enhancing career opportunities for learners.”
Those interested in this opportunity may contact Dr. Peter Kuvshinikov at [email protected].
About The AIM Institute
The AIM Institute’s educational and training courses are rooted in research and are designed to help students solve problems using critical thinking by expanding their knowledge and skills. They are trusted worldwide to develop injection molding professionals through accredited education and training and are driven by the mission of advancing the injection molding industry.
About PennWest
PennWest University provides accessible education that cultivates career-ready, life-long learners and leaders who enrich and engage each other, their communities, the region, and beyond through innovation, academic excellence, and empowering environments.
