Panel Agenda
9:30 am
Addressing the Skills Labor Shortage in the Plastics Sector
Canada’s plastics industry is facing a significant challenge in recruiting and retaining skilled labor. Let’s delve into the factors contributing to this shortage and explore potential solutions to bridge the gap. From investing in training and education programs to implementing innovative recruitment strategies, we’ll discuss how stakeholders can collaborate to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers in the plastics sector, essential for its continued growth and sustainability.
MODERATOR
E. HOFFMAN PLASTICS – Sameer Kalia
COLIN DHILLON
Kulbir Colin Singh Dhillon is at the forefront of design thinking and sustainable innovation as the dynamic President of ImagineQ Inc. Currently, he also holds the position of Chief Innovation Officer at TBDC & The Bhive Incubators. With a seasoned tenure spanning nearly three decades in the mobility sector, Colin’s visionary approach has birthed pioneering ventures, notably Project Arrow, the first all-Canadian electric vehicle that exemplifies his dedication to eco-friendly mobility solutions.
Colin’s acumen in collaborative design processes with industry giants such as Toyota, GM, and Stellantis has been pivotal in propelling design, engineering, and intelligent infrastructure forward. His adeptness in design thinking is further evident in his strategic advisory roles, particularly in cybersecurity and the digital overhaul of manufacturing practices.
Esteemed for his innovative foresight, Colin has served as the only Canadian judge at the North American International Auto Show’s prestigious Eyes On Design awards and has been distinguished in Automotive News’ “Canadians to Watch” for his trailblazing contributions. His impact transcends the professional sphere, manifesting in cultural and community spheres as a bestselling author, co-founder of the Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada, and as an honoree with the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
PANELISTS
E. HOFFMAN PLASTICS – Sameer Kalia
ROYAL CNC – Rob Dizio
Rob Dizio is a seasoned professional in the extrusion industry with over 33 years of experience. He graduated from Humber College in 1992 with a degree in Tool and Die Design. Starting his career at Royal Plastics in 1991, he honed his skills in the tool room building extrusion dies until 2007. In 2008, Rob ventured out on his own, establishing a successful career as an independent extrusion tooling expert. Throughout his career, he has specialized in building extrusion tooling for various industries and materials, showcasing his expertise and dedication to the field.
BERICAP – Anthony Scire
Anthony Scire has been in the manufacturing industry for over 30 years including 15 years in plastics injection, extrusion and conversion. He has held leadership positions in a variety of businesses and industries including plastics, food, wood, pulp and paper and consulting. In his current role as General Manager of Bericap Inc., Anthony is responsible for leading the Canadian business group of Bericap, a global leader in the Caps and Closures market. The Bericap Group of companies operates 29 production sites in 25 countries, with sales reps in 100 countries, and technical and sales support in 52 languages. Anthony’s other experiences include manufacturing leadership roles for Furlani Foods, Maple Leaf Foods, the Clorox Company, Frito Lay, Nestle and other global organizations. Anthony is known as diverse and skilled manufacturing business leader driven by a passion for people.
TOP GRADE MOLD – Mike Fotivec
With an impressive tenure spanning nearly three decades, Mike Fotivec stands as a pillar of excellence within Top Grade Molds Ltd. As the Operations Manager, Mike brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the helm of the company’s operations.
Throughout his extensive career, Mike has been instrumental in shaping and refining Top Grade Molds Ltd.’s operational strategies, catapulting the company to the forefront of its industry. His unwavering dedication to efficiency, safety, quality, and innovation has not only driven the company’s success but has also cultivated a culture of excellence among his colleagues.
Beyond his official duties, Mike’s leadership transcends his title, as he actively mentors and guides team members, fostering talent and promoting a collaborative work environment. His adeptness in navigating challenges with grace and ingenuity has earned him the respect and admiration of both peers and superiors alike.
Outside of the professional sphere, Mike finds joy in spending quality time with his family and immersing himself in nature’s beauty.
BRENNTAG – Mandeep Sunner
With over three decades of experience in the plastics industry, Mandeep Sunner built a career marked by continuous growth and achievement. His journey began with completing a Plastics course at Humber in 1995, setting the stage for his passion and expertise in the field.
From there, Mandeep spent 17 years at PCL Packaging, starting as an operator and steadily advancing to the role of Business Unit Manager. Following that, he served as Extrusion Manager at Hood Packaging for 3 years.
In 2009, he joined Brenntag as a production supervisor, later transitioning to the role of production manager of the Plastic Division in 2016. Fast forward to 2021, where Mandeep assumed the position of site manager at the Malton facility, concurrently serving as Operations Manager at the Brampton facility.
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to excellence, leadership, and continuous improvement, driving success at every step of the way.
10:30 am
Bridging the Skills Gap in the Tooling and Mold Making Community
The tooling and mold making community is grappling with a pronounced skills gap, posing challenges to the industry’s efficiency and continued growth. Join us as we delve into the root causes of this gap and examine strategies to address it. From enhancing vocational training programs to promoting apprenticeships and embracing technological advancements, let’s explore proactive measures to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and sustaining the tooling and mold making sector into the future.
MODERATOR
JONATHON AZZOPARDI
Jonathon Azzopardi has spent his career involved in the manufacturing industry for the past 20 years. Being the youngest boy of a family of nine of a successful Mould Making family, he would later go on to follow in his Father’s footsteps, as President and CEO of LAVAL International. Jonathon grew his family’s business into be a multimillion dollar International corporation.
Jonathon takes his responsibility as a young leader in his community very seriously by sitting on many not for profit committees, boards and charitable organisations including;
International Relations Canadian Association of Mouldmakers
Past Cabinet member for the United Way Windsor & Essex County
Industry Council for WEST (Woman Enterprise, Skills Training of Windsor)
Build a Dream Board of Director
Member of the PACT Advisory Committee for St. Clair College
NRCs Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre – Advisory Board
Past Chairman of Canadian Association of Mould Makers.
London Diocese Bishop’s Task force
Past St Michael’s Parish Building and Finance Committee
535 Leamington Air Cadet Squadron Sponsorship Committee Chair
“A great community leader is someone who tries a little harder and looks a little deeper to find the right solution to bring prosperity to their community.
I was inspired and mentored by David Butler, who taught me to inspire others by my actions which means defending the vulnerable regardless of the costs.
PANELISTS
CAVALIER TOOL AND DIE – TIM CALBRAITH
Tim Galbraith is a veteran of 40 years in manufacturing, 30 of them in the mold making industry. Retiring in 2023 from his position as general manager of Cavalier Tool in Windsor, Tim was integral in Cavalier’s decade long success story seeing the company grow 500% in that time. As a longtime board member of the Canadian Association of Mold Makers, he has championed the campaign to raise awareness of the skilled trades shortage and is an avid promoter of manufacturing as a career. His retirement includes spending time with his family and consulting within the moldmaking industry.
CREST MOLD – WILL CIPKAR
With over two decades of dedicated service, Will Cipkar has been an integral part of Crest Mold Technology since 2001, beginning in the CNC and design departments. Will’s expertise has been pivotal in driving innovation, particularly as he has spearheaded the establishment of CTT’s conformal cooling division, contributing significantly to the company’s technological advancements and market leadership.
Currently, Will is actively involved in integrating conformal cooling technology to advance bio-resins within the injection molding sector. He holds confidence that this technological integration will significantly contribute to the sustainability of plastics in the foreseeable future.
CAVALIER TOOL & MOLD – Peter Gossmann
Peter Gossmann has been an Owner and General Manager in the injection molding industry since 2007 and has held positions in the plastics industry since 1978, including 25 years in the field of plastic injection mold making, 2 years in plastic injection machine manufacturing and 16 years in the business of plastic processing. In his 40 + year career, he has been a small business owner in whole or in part for 30 of those years. He is a member of the Coalition of Concerned Manufacturers and Businesses of Canada and sits on the Board as Vice President. Recently Mr. Gossmann has joined Cavalier Tool and Manufacturing Ltd as Sales Manager.
BUILD A DREAM – Nour Hachem-Fawaz
Nour utilizes her 15 years of experience as a workforce advisor, mentor, and influencer to inspire youth to make informed career choices that challenge the status quo.
Nour Hachem-Fawaz wants to change global perspectives on women’s contribution to society. Inspired by her mother’s perseverance to excel in a male dominated field, Nour dug deep into the “why” behind the lack of women in skilled trades. She realized that the barriers keeping women out of these rewarding careers were common to other male-dominated paths, so she founded a non-profit to encourage and empower young women to explore careers they may never have considered.
Nour’s challenge to listeners is that one must first address internal preconceptions before being capable of making significant strides that transform our work and world. A brilliant connector and facilitator, audiences are drawn to her candour and unique perspective from an extensive career in workforce development and her lived experiences as a woman of colour. She shares energetic stories of what leaders are doing right and offers real-world examples of how embracing diverse workplaces accelerates success.
Nour earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Windsor and expanded Build a Dream across Canada while completing her MBA, raising children, and earning many awards and accolades. Most recently, she WXN recognized her as one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada in 2022. She spends each day following her passion: creating equity not just in the workplace, but in all the spaces around us.
ORBIS – Steve Smith
Steve Smith BSc, CET University of Waterloo, and Niagara College Steve is the Plant Manager at ORBIS Canada Ltd for the past 14 yrs . Orbis produces various plastic packaging including Bread trays, Dollies, FlipPaks, Agri Bins, Auto totes and various Environmental products . Including Green Bins, Blue Boxes , Rain Barrels and Kitchen collectors. Orbis Canada has been focused on implementing LEAN Principles, 5S, Continuous Improvement , Sustainability, and have been honoured with the Companies’ Plant of the Year Award 3 times in 2012, 2015, and 2016. Prior to ORBIS , Steve spent 24 yrs at a Tier 1 Automotive company, Gencorp Inc., supplying weatherstrips to the North American market. Prior to this Steve spent 2 years at Lubrizol, the manufacturing of oil and gasoline additives. Steve is enjoying a career focused on Problem Solving, Teamwork, and Continuous Improvement.
VUTEQ – Adam Gyimesi
Adam Gyimesi has been committed to the plastics industry since 2005, dedicating his career to overcoming challenges and driving innovation. As the Senior Injection Technical Coordinator at Vuteq Canada, he supports the injection process leadership, with his variety of experiences and a keen understanding of the intricacies of the field. Adam fosters collaboration both within Vuteq and across industry networks, to help promote advanced tooling and lightweight technology for improved efficiency. Vuteq Canada, like other plastic molding facilities, is feeling the industry-wide challenges stemming from a training gap in tooling and mold making. We look forward to speaking with other companies to create a positive impact in the molding making and plastics field.
11:15 am
Unveiling Machinery Trends to Meet ESG Initiatives in Manufacturing
In the realm of manufacturing, there’s a growing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Let’s delve into the latest machinery trends that are specifically tailored to align with these sustainability goals. From energy-efficient technologies to waste reduction strategies, we’ll explore how manufacturers are leveraging innovation to advance their ESG agendas and contribute to a more sustainable future.
MODERATOR
GRAEME SANDS
Graeme Sands is the General Manager of Globeius, a US based distributor of auxiliary equipment to the plastics industry.
After graduating with a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Wales in 1988, Graeme worked in the automotive industry in the UK. After moving to Canada in 1993, he began his career in the plastics industry working for MoldMasters. A career focused on the hot runner and temperature control industry took him to American MSI, Yudo and then back to MoldMasters as the Global Director of Product Management.
In 2018, Graeme joined the Globeius team and works out of his home office in the Toronto area.
PANELISTS
HUSKY – Henry Zhang
Henry Zhang serves as the Global Director of Marketing, Market Intelligence, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at Husky Technologies, with over 20 years of dedication to the company. His tenure at Husky has been marked by a steadfast commitment to advancing sustainability and positioning the brand at the vanguard of enabling a circular economy. Henry’s expertise is underpinned by a Master of Engineering and an MBA from the University of Toronto (UFT), equipping him with a robust blend of technical and business acumen.
A passionate problem-solver, Henry believes in driving sustainability through innovation. His leadership has been instrumental in integrating sustainable practices into Husky’s operations, emphasizing the importance of economic viability alongside environmental responsibility. As a speaker on the upcoming sustainability panel, Henry is eager to share his insights and strategies for fostering a sustainable future in the industry.
HAITIAN – Dmitri Strunkin
Dmitri received his undergraduate degree from St Petersburg University of Economics and Finance (Russia) with focus a on marketing. He earned his MBA from Northeastern University in Boston MA. Dmitri has been with Absolute HAITIAN since 2008 helping to build a North American sales and service leader in injection molding equipment/automation sector. He currently manages
Absolute HAITIAN’s activities in Canada (from East to West Coast), Michigan and Northeast US.
NUCON WHITTMANN – Rob Miller
Rob Miller
PRESIDENT
Wittmann Battenfeld Canada Inc.
A 38-year career, starting with NUCON systems in 1986, and transitioning as we became part of the Wittmann Group in August 1999.
Wittmann Battenfeld Canada is a member of the global Wittmann group of companies, WITTMANN Technology GmbH, headquartered in Vienna, Austria.
Consisting of 12 manufacturing facilities and sales/service divisions covering 72 countries, for over 45 years, the Wittmann Group has been dedicated to providing machinery solutions to all aspects of the plastics industry.
Through the initial 15 years, focused on the resin conveying, drying, and blending aspect of the Plastics industry, and since 1999, learning all new aspects of the Robotics and IMM side of the business.
Working over the last 38 years to develop relationships, partnerships, and build our Canadian business, and new innovations on a global basis.
With our long-term team of experienced system design and manufacturing engineers, and an established standard line of equipment, thousands of systems of all sizes and configurations have been successfully installed and commissioned.
ENGEL – James Overbeeke
Jim received his Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo in 1986.
He joined Husky Injection Molding in 1988 and held various positions over 20 years in the packaging market.
Jim joined Engel Machinery in 2018 as Business Development Manager Packaging.
ONWARD PLASTICS – Andrew Sellner
Andrew Sellner is Vice President Operations at Onward Plastics. Andrew has a background in engineering and business with a degree in Integrated Engineering from Western University and a degree in Honours Business Administration from the Richard Ivey School of business. Since joining in 2016, he’s been steering Onward Plastics’ injection molding operations. He has direct responsibility for production, processing, automation, tooling, and maintenance.
Onward Plastics, a family-owned business, specializes in molding industrial durable components for various industries including home appliances, building products, agricultural products, logistics items, to name a few. Onward has two production facilities with 44 moulding machines from 39 ton to 1750 ton. Onward specializes in moulding everything from engineering polymers to recycled commodity resins. In 2023, they processed 1.25M pounds of post consumer recycled polypropylene, 1M lbs of post industrial recycled flexible PVC, and started using flaked TPU regrind from automotive scrap.
1:00 pm
Programming, Internship and Funding Opportunities
Programming, Internship and Funding Opportunities
PRESENTED BY
HUMBER COLLEGE
Shaun Ghafari
Dr. Shaun (Shahab) Ghafari is Dean of engineering in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology at Humber College. He received his MASc. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Waterloo, Department of Mechanical Engineering. In his previous role as the Applied Research Coordinator and Principal Investigator, Dr. Ghafari supervised several industrial projects, providing students with remarkable opportunities for employment. He has received grants from a variety of provincial and federal funding agencies such as NSERC, IRAP, FedDev and OCE. Dr. Ghafari has more than 12 years of industry experience in the automotive and energy sectors. He is expert in Automation and machine design, and has a successful track record of having successfully completed more than 40 industrial research projects in Polytechnic environment. Dr. Ghafari’s career in industry as a mechanical engineer and project manager is essential to the successful completion of the applied research projects with industry clients. His role as associate dean of advance manufacturing cluster including Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical, Electromechanical, Electronics, Electrical, and Heating and Refrigeration Air Conditioning, will provide him opportunity to encourage and involve a large number of students and several faculties from different engineering disciplines in the related applied research and industry projects.
Carl Oliver
For more than two decades, Carl has been an educator and faculty member both inside and outside the classroom. He has held a variety of roles including Professor, Program Coordinator, Director of Professional & Continuing Education, and Associate Dean. What began as an interest in student success and technology-enabled learning, has grown into a passion for innovation in teaching and training, curriculum design, and tailoring training programs for specific groups of learners.
Michael Auchincloss
A master electrician with certification in Electrical Construction Maintenance, Michael worked for 10 years in the commercial, residential and industrial sectors before joining Humber in 1999 to teach in the Electrical Apprenticeship program. Later, as program coordinator for both the Electrical Apprenticeship and the Electrical Techniques programs Michael was instrumental in the development and evolution of both programs. Additionally, he has designed and developed curriculum for two pre-apprenticeship programs and implemented an Electrical Apprenticeship Certificate of Qualification preparation course. A recipient of Humber’s Distinguished Faculty Award, Michael sits as a resource member for the Ontario College of Trades and Heads of Apprenticeship group.
Dave Smiderle, PhD
Over the past three years, Dr. Smiderle has worked with several industry partners to develop and deliver training designed for upskilling and reskilling. Earning a Doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and recognized credentials in Change and Knowledge Management, Dave has applied his expertise to develop and design training curriculum specifically for adults. Dr. Smiderle comes from a rich background of consulting and providing continuous and professional learning to the private sector within several industries, along with more than 14 years’ experience with polytechnic institutions.
Janice Wojcik
Jan empowers students to get a head start on their careers through work-integrated learning experiences and works with employers to identify talent for Co-op, Work Placement, Internship and Full-Time staffing needs. Janice also holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering.
2:00 pm
The Surprising Sustainability of Plastics
Despite its negative perception, plastics are increasingly being harnessed to foster a greener environment. Join us as we uncover the ways in which plastics are contributing to sustainability initiatives. From the development of biodegradable and compostable plastics to the use of recycled materials in manufacturing processes, let’s explore how the plastics industry is innovating to minimize its environmental footprint.
MODERATOR
ACETRONIC – Simmie Thiara
Customer service has been a guiding principle in Simmie Thiara’s career since her formative years. Commencing her professional journey in banking and financial planning, she served as an advisor for several years before her attention was captivated by discussions about the growth of her family business. Simmie’s inherent passion for business ultimately led her back to her family’s enterprise.
Simmie is a highly driven and enthusiastic entrepreneur with a strong business acumen. Currently holding the positions of Change Management Leader and Director of Sales at AceTronic Industrial Controls Inc., Simmie plays a pivotal role in the company’s operations.
Being immersed in the plastics industry has afforded her the chance to delve deeply into understanding the intricacies of product manufacturing, the backend processes involved, and the longstanding efforts of Ontario manufacturers in driving effective and sustainable change.
This experience has fueled her unwavering commitment to advocating for her customers and tirelessly endeavoring to educate the public (or anyone willing to listen) to the fullest extent possible.
PANELISTS
HUSKY – Tania Ferlin
Tania is a passionate and energetic sustainability, and communications professional with a wide range and depth of experience spanning advocacy, ESG strategy, social impact, employee engagement, culture strategy and building, partnership management, communications, and executing purpose-driven initiatives. As Global Manager of Communications and ESG at Husky Technologies™, Tania embraces the role of both a strategic and tactical leader, as she heads the strategy, implementation, and coordination of the company’s sustainability vision and plan, driving international collaboration required to achieve meaningful progress and impact. She also leads the company’s external sustainability advocacy efforts, and internal corporate communications.
Prior to joining Husky, Tania grew a successful and career in the hospitality industry, where she led the awareness movement in North America of Human Trafficking, speaking to and educating tens of thousands of industry professionals on the issue. Now, she is eagerly championing another worthy cause – the Circular Economy of plastics.
STONE STRAW – Abe Looy
With 27 years of dedicated experience in the plastics industry, Abe navigated through diverse roles from project engineering to quality assurance, plant management, and regional operations. Currently serving as the VP of Operations for two business units at Wentworth Technologies, Abe leads with a blend of strategic vision and operational expertise.
His innovative spirit led him to create Canada’s first compostable straw, a milestone recognized by the Canadian Plastics Industry with the prestigious Canadian Innovator Award in 2019, shared with Stone Straw. Grounded in a background in chemical and environmental engineering, Abe remains committed to driving sustainable solutions and pushing the boundaries of innovation in the industry.
AVIENT – Arjun Walia
Arjun Arjun Walia is a seasoned plastic professional, with 20+ years of experience in multiple roles in the Plastic industry. These experiences include Direction of Operations, Vp of Sales and Marketing, and National Sales manager, these positions were held with both private and public companies. Arjun brings unique perspective which includes working directly on the manufacturing floor to negotiation large global contracts, as well developing and launching innovations in Plastic industry.
STACKTECK – Jordan Robertson
As the VP of Business Development & Marketing at StackTeck, Jordan Robertson brings over 30 years of industry expertise in injection molds and systems within packaging applications. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from McMaster University and an MBA, Jordan possesses a solid foundation in both technical and business domains. His tenure at StackTeck spans an impressive 23 years, during which he has spearheaded numerous initiatives driving company growth and market expansion.
In addition to Jordan’s role at StackTeck, he serves as a board member of the In Mold Decorating Association, contributing to the advancement of innovative decorating techniques within the industry. Furthermore, as an Executive Group member of the PIA Rigid Plastic Packaging Group, Jordan actively participates in shaping industry standards and best practices.
With a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence, Jordan continuously strives to foster strategic partnerships and drive impactful business development initiatives within the plastics manufacturing sector.