Why attending conferences matters for professionals and organizations

The 2025 Annual Blow Molding Conference showed the value of learning, networking and recognizing achievements.
Nov. 25, 2025
4 min read

Key Highlights

  • Industry events like the Annual Blow Molding Conference facilitate face-to-face networking, leading to partnerships, mentorships, and new business opportunities.
  • They serve as platforms for sharing research, trends, and best practices that can be applied to improve workplace processes and solve challenges.
  • Organizations can enhance brand visibility and industry leadership through presenting and sponsoring at these events.
  • Attending conferences helps spread information about technological advancements and market trends, enabling strategic adaptation.
Michael A. Marcotte Photography Ltd. for the SPE Blow Molding Division
The show floor at ABC 2025 offered a chance to make connections with peers and suppliers.

The show floor at ABC 2025 offered a chance to make connections with peers and suppliers.

By Eric Simmons

Chair, SPE Blow Molding Division

Industry conferences play a critical role in the professional growth of individuals and the advancement of organizations. These events bring together thought leaders, innovators and practitioners from across the field, fostering an environment of collaboration, learning and progress. 

One of the most significant benefits of industry conferences is the opportunity to build and strengthen professional networks. Attendees can meet peers, potential clients, collaborators and even mentors. This face-to-face interaction often leads to long-term partnerships and opens doors to new business opportunities. 

Conferences are platforms for sharing the latest research, trends and best practices. Keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops expose attendees to cutting-edge ideas and innovations. This knowledge can be applied to improve processes, spark creativity and solve complex challenges in the workplace. 

For organizations, conferences provide a valuable opportunity to showcase products, services and expertise. Presenting or sponsoring at these events can boost brand awareness, attract new customers and establish the company as a leader in the industry. 

Michael A. Marcotte Photography Ltd. for the SPE Blow Molding Division
The Executive Committee of the SPE Blow Molding Division gathered at ABC 2025.

The Executive Committee of the SPE Blow Molding Division gathered at ABC 2025.

The energy and enthusiasm of industry conferences can be inspiring. Hearing from leaders and innovators often motivates professionals to set ambitious goals and pursue new initiatives. The collaborative atmosphere encourages creative thinking and problem-solving.

Conferences frequently serve as initial forums for sharing new trends and technological advancements. By attending, professionals and organizations can stay ahead of the curve, anticipate changes in the market, and adapt strategies accordingly. 

Industry conferences are essential for anyone looking to grow professionally, stay informed, and build meaningful connections. Their value extends beyond individual development to include organizational growth, innovation, and long-term success. Making participation in such events a priority is a wise investment for the future. 

The 2025 Annual Blow Molding Conference held in Pittsburgh stands as an exemplary model of a successful industry event, which is saying something considering this is a K Show year. Attendance was robust, with a notable presence of both established professionals and newcomers to the field.  

Some highlights of the conference: 

  • Attendance was 300+. 
  • Motivational speaker Eric McElvenny and keynote speaker Luke Williams set the tone for the conference on Tuesday. 
  • The Gateway Clipper river cruise dinner was an attendee favorite. 
  • Special thanks to Gary Carr of Bekum America Corp. for his years of service on the SPE Blow Molding Division Board. 
  • Impressive work was done by Luke Adams, Brady Dore and Sarah Ross of University of Massachusetts – Lowell on their Capstone project, “New Product Development: Concept to Reality.” 
  • Rocheleau Tool and Die won the Lewis E. Ferguson Blow Molded Parts Competition (read more on Page JBM-4).  

ABC 2025 has set the bar for the future. In 2026, the conference will be in Wheeling, Ill., at the Westin Chicago North Shore. Be prepared for 2027 as the SPE Blow Molding Division will hold a premiere event in St. Louis at the St. Charles Convention Center. 

I personally want to thank all the SPE Board Members, Joy Stonehouse and Deirdre Turner for all the effort and time it takes to make an event like this a success. Thank you! 

I look forward to seeing everyone in Chicago in 2026!!! 

This article appears in the fall 2025 issue of The Journal of Blow Molding. 

© 2025, Society of Plastics Engineers Blow Molding Division

About the Author

Eric Simmons

Eric Simmons is chairman of the SPE Blow Molding Division board. He is the Director of Product Development at Radius Packaging in New Berlin, Wis. 

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