Plastics Innovation & Resource Center
Tap into world-class training plus research and development designed to help plastics companies close skills gaps, increase efficiencies, and overcome process and compounding challenges.
Contact
- Plastics Innovation & Resource Center
- Advanced Technology & Health Sciences Center, Rm. E128
570.321.5533 - pirc@pct.edu
The Plastics Innovation & Resource Center (PIRC) provides technological resources to facilitate the growth and success of the plastics industry. The Center serves the educational, training, and research and development needs of plastic processors, resin suppliers, mold builders, and equipment manufacturers. We deliver extensive material testing laboratories, industrial-scale process equipment, and world-class training facilities, all with the support of highly skilled training and consulting staff.
Explore our training
Equipping employees with essential skills and knowledge to become safe and productive contributors in a plastics manufacturing environment is critical. Explore our customized training programs designed to develop proficient plastics professionals.
Hands-on Workshops
Each year, the PIRC hosts a series on hands-on training workshops with leading industry experts, including Penn College faculty, on campus in Williamsport, PA. Participants have access to industrial-scale process equipment and extensive material testing laboratories. In addition to key learning opportunities, participants are able to network with peers and industry leaders.
Apprenticeships
Our plastics process technical program develops machine operators into valued technicians. We offer registered apprenticeships in extrusion and injection molding led by industry experts. Courses are delivered virtually to allow for multi-site delivery and maximum flexibility.
Online Plastics Process Modules
These self-paced learning systems utilize video content to deliver theoretical, conceptual, and virtual instruction through digital twinning in extrusion and injection molding.
Custom Training
Draw upon the expertise of our panel of renowned instructors and industry experts to develop custom training to meet your needs. Training can be offered on-site at your facility or in our labs in beautiful Williamsport, PA. Contact us to learn more.
Explore our program areas
Applied Research & Development
The PIRC is the complete solution for process improvement, applied R&D, product development, and prototyping.
Plastics Mobile Lab
The Plastics Mobile Lab provides a user-friendly hands-on STEM educational opportunity for students.
Shell Polymers Rotational Molding Center of Excellence
The center supports applied research and development in the rotomolding industry.
Thermoforming Center of Excellence
This facility is dedicated to serving the education, training, and research and development needs of thermoformers, sheet extruders, resin suppliers, mold builders, and equipment manufacturers.
Benefits
Increase profitability
- Improve manufacturing productivity
- Better utilize and manage materials
- Use new technology and materials
- Benefit from energy reduction programs
- Decrease operation costs
Decrease development costs
- Reduce production down time for trials on new materials or products
- Handle analysis, testing, mold trials, product development, and research needs
- Reduce capital costs – no need to invest in your own R&D facilities
Develop and train your workforce
- Participate in national hands-on workshops
- Employee Certification of skills and knowledge
- Provide customized workshops at your site or at Penn College
Penn College News
Penn College polymer training attracts diverse professionals
'Inside Jobs Tour' attracts Central PA Chamber
Penn College polymer training attracts diverse professionals
More Info
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