By Lindsey Munson, editor, Plastics Business Over the last year, a common theme has been present, whether it’s through a conference breakout session, an association training, a plant tour or a conversation on the phone – companies must focus on their workforce, not just production. The plastics industry has faced numerous challenges, including an aging labor pool, a … [Read more...] about Attract, Engage and Retain: Q&A with Manufacturing Leaders
Human Resources
Change the Mindset and Create a Culture That People Don’t Want to Leave
By Jessica Rector, keynote speaker, founder and CEO, Vitalize Unlimited Is there a Negative Nancy (NN) and Toxic Tim (TT) in the company who are being kept longer than should be? Would the company let them go if it weren’t so short-staffed? One Negative Nancy or Toxic Tim infiltrates the whole company, and it spreads throughout affecting everyone. Think of it like this: … [Read more...] about Change the Mindset and Create a Culture That People Don’t Want to Leave
Two Plastics Companies Counter Workforce Shortage with Automation Innovations
The MAPP members that earned recognition at the 2023 MAPP Innovation Awards did so with a focus on automation. Plastics Business checked in to learn the details from two MAPP members whose innovation submissions rose, like cream, to the top. Their solutions included a diverse array of tools and technologies, including robots, cobots, feeders, funnels, hoppers and air … [Read more...] about Two Plastics Companies Counter Workforce Shortage with Automation Innovations
Plastics Executives Report Increased Wages in 2024 with Inflation as the Primary Driver
By Andrew Carlsgaard, analytics director, MAPP The 2024 MAPP Wage and Salary Report continues to reflect the impact of heightened inflation on wages and salaries across the US workforce. The survey results of 211 plastics processors representing over 35,000 employees show an increasingly prevalent upward trend, as 57 of the 70 industry job categories (81%) tracked … [Read more...] about Plastics Executives Report Increased Wages in 2024 with Inflation as the Primary Driver
Legislative Changes to Impactful Employment and OSHA Laws in Manufacturing
By Alan Rothenbuecher, partner, and Brad Wenclewicz, associate lawyer, Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP The landscape of employment law is undergoing changes that could significantly impact the manufacturing industry. These developments necessitate employers to stay informed and proactively update their policies to ensure compliance with evolving regulations. … [Read more...] about Legislative Changes to Impactful Employment and OSHA Laws in Manufacturing