SVI publishes guideline
The document is intended to support companies along the packaging value chain.
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The packaging industry plays a crucial role in today's society, not only in terms of product presentation, but also in terms of sustainability and innovation. The perspectives and challenges faced by packaging technology students and the opportunities available to them. We provide insights into the opinions and experiences of students from various universities who have chosen to work in this exciting field.
The Student's Day at Fachpack 2024 in Nuremberg showed how important the exchange between students and the industry is. This is where young talents meet companies that are urgently looking for qualified young talent. Winfried Batzke from the German Packaging Institute emphasises in an interview with packaging journal that it's all about bringing the right people together. Young talent is not only important for the industry, but also for the future of packaging technology.
The current state of the packaging industry
The packaging industry is facing challenges, especially when it comes to the shortage of skilled labour. Many companies are struggling to fill vacancies, which can lead to production bottlenecks. The students recognise this problem and are motivated to find solutions and enrich the industry with their fresh ideas.
Sustainability as a central theme
Sustainability is a key concern for the students. Fadnaz, a prospective Master's student in packaging technology, wants to work in areas such as recycling and sustainable packaging solutions. These topics are not only timely, but also crucial for the future development of the industry. The students have a strong awareness of ecological issues and want to actively contribute to solving these challenges.
Diversity of study programmes
The students come from various degree programmes that deal with packaging technology, packaging development and design as well as sustainable packaging technology. Simon, who is studying in Hanover, has already gained practical experience in the dairy and would like to work in packaging development. Such experience is crucial to mastering the transition from theory to practice.
The whole interview in the video
The role of creativity in packaging development
Creativity plays a key role in packaging development. Hannah, who is studying in Leipzig, emphasises that it's not just about design, but also about technical innovation. Packaging development requires a deep understanding of consumer needs as well as the possibilities of material science. Students learn to develop creative solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The challenge of the technical aspects
Technical knowledge is essential in the packaging industry. Students must learn how to select materials that are environmentally friendly and at the same time protect the products. Lorenz, who is studying in Vienna, emphasises the importance of the interactions between packaging and products, especially in the pharmaceutical sector. This knowledge is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of products.
Networking and career opportunities
Student's Day offers an excellent opportunity to make contacts. Students report informative workshops and discussions with companies presenting their career opportunities. Simon has already collected several business cards and plans to use these contacts to find internships and job opportunities. Networking is an important part of professional life and can make entering the industry much easier.
Practical experience
The students emphasise how valuable practical experience is. Hannah talks about her time at Tchibo, where she works in packaging development. These practical insights help students to develop a better understanding of the industry and prepare them for starting a career. Integration into a team and the opportunity to work on real projects are crucial for their professional development.
The future of the packaging industry
The packaging industry will continue to grow and change in the coming years. Students are aware that they play a key role in this development. They bring fresh ideas and a strong awareness of sustainability, which is crucial for the industry. The challenges that lie ahead are great, but the motivation and commitment of the young talents give hope that the future of the packaging industry is in good hands.
Why you should study packaging
To summarise, it can be said that studying packaging technology offers a wide range of opportunities. Students emphasise that it is not just about design or engineering, but a combination of both. The industry is diverse and offers numerous career opportunities, especially in the areas of sustainability and innovation. Young talents who choose this field can actively contribute to shaping the future and establish themselves in a dynamic and growing industry.
The students have a clear message: the packaging industry is not just a career field, but an opportunity to have a positive impact on the environment and society. If you are thinking about entering the packaging industry, don't underestimate the opportunities that this exciting field offers.
There is still a lot to discover and shape in the packaging industry. The next generation of packaging experts is ready to take on the challenges and lead the industry into a sustainable future.
Selected degree programmes
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