Leading a niche manufacturing sector: A chairman’s perspective on the future of blow molding

By Eric Simmons 

Chairman, SPE Blow Molding Division 

Blow molding is a specialized manufacturing sector whose impact is far greater than its visibility. The industry supports critical markets including medical packaging, industrial containers, consumer goods and transportation. While the technology continues to advance, the most significant driver of progress remains the people and organizations committed to its development. 

As chairman of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Blow Molding Division, I have the opportunity to observe how collaboration, technical curiosity and shared purpose shape the trajectory of this field. Leadership in a niche industry is not defined by scale, but by the ability to create clarity, foster innovation and strengthen the community that sustains it. 

In January, SPE began its next chapter — with the merger of it and the Plastics Industry Association. But its goals remain the same. 

The SPE Blow Molding Division serves as a central platform for technical exchange and professional development. Its mission is grounded in three core pillars that guide the division’s activities and reinforce its role as a catalyst for industry progress. 

Technical excellence: The division promotes the advancement of materials science, processing knowledge and equipment technology through conferences, publications and educational initiatives. 

Industry connectivity: By bringing together processors, resin suppliers, equipment manufacturers, academics and students, the division enables cross‑disciplinary learning and problem‑solving. 

Workforce development: Training programs, student engagement and mentorship efforts ensure that the next generation enters the industry with confidence and a strong technical foundation. 

Leadership in a specialized sector 

Leading within a niche field requires a balance of respect for established practices and a commitment to future‑focused innovation. Several principles shape effective leadership in the blow molding sector. 

Championing tradition and transformation: Blow molding has a long history of proven processes and durable equipment. At the same time, the industry is undergoing significant change driven by automation, sustainability requirements, digitalization and workforce turnover. Leadership involves honoring the strengths of the past while guiding the industry toward new capabilities. 

Elevating underrepresented voices: Some of the most valuable insights come from plant‑floor technicians, maintenance personnel and small processors. Their practical experience often leads to meaningful improvements in efficiency, safety and product quality. A strong division ensures these perspectives are included in broader industry discussions. 

Creating clarity in complexity: Resin behavior, machine design, regulatory expectations and customer demands are evolving rapidly. Leadership requires helping the industry navigate these complexities through education, communication and shared problem‑solving. 

Challenges and opportunities 

The blow molding industry faces several challenges that also present opportunities for improvement and innovation. 

Aging equipment and capital planning:Many processors operate machinery that has been in service for decades. Decisions regarding rebuilds, retrofits or replacement require careful evaluation of cost, performance and long‑term reliability. The division plays a role in disseminating best practices and technical guidance. 

Workforce development and retention:The manufacturing workforce is changing. New technicians bring strong digital skills but may lack exposure to polymer processing fundamentals. Structured training, mentorship and modern tools are essential to closing this gap. 

Sustainability and circularity: Pressure to incorporate post‑consumer resin (PCR), reduce material usage and improve energy efficiency continues to increase. The division supports industry efforts by promoting data‑driven approaches to sustainability rather than relying on broad generalizations. 

Digital transformation: Technologies such as predictive maintenance, automated quality monitoring and workflow automation are reshaping plant operations. Adoption remains uneven, and leadership is needed to help companies understand the practical benefits and implementation pathways. 

The value of collaboration 

One of the greatest strengths of the blow molding community is its willingness to collaborate. When professionals from different segments of the industry share knowledge, the result is accelerated innovation and improved problem‑solving. 

The division fosters: 

• Open discussion of real‑world processing challenges.
• Cross‑disciplinary learning between materials,machineryand operations. 
• Mentorship opportunities for emerging professionals.
• A sense of community that supports long‑term engagement.

This collaborative environment is essential for sustaining industry growth and technical advancement. 

Vision for the Blow Molding Division 

As chairman, my focus is on strengthening the division’s role as a resource for the entire industry. Three priorities guide this vision. 

Expanding access to technical knowledge: Educational content, training programs and digital resources must be readily available to students and professionals at all experience levels. 

Enhancing industry connectivity: Conferences, webinars and publications will continue to serve as key touchpoints, but additional year‑round engagement opportunities will help maintain momentum. 

Supporting the next generation: Attracting and developing new talent is essential. The division will continue to invest in student outreach, mentorship and early‑career involvement. 

The blow molding industry is defined by its technical depth, practical ingenuity and strong sense of community. While the challenges ahead are significant, the opportunities for innovation and growth are equally compelling. Through collaboration, education and leadership, the SPE Blow Molding Division will continue to support the advancement of this essential manufacturing sector. 

The future of blow molding will be shaped not by any single organization or technology, but by the collective efforts of the professionals who contribute their expertise, curiosity and commitment to excellence. 

This article appears in the spring 2026 issue of The Journal of Blow Molding. 

© 2026, Society of Plastics Engineers Blow Molding Division