How hands-on experience at PTI helps emerging engineers turn classroom learning into full-time careers in packaging innovation.

At PTI, advancing packaging solutions and material science starts with its greatest asset: people. Technical education has long been part of our role in the plastics packaging industry, whether through professional training programs, customer collaboration or helping solve complex manufacturing challenges.

That same commitment extends to the next generation of engineers through our co-op program.

For engineering students, co-op experiences are a bridge between academic theory and real-world application. They offer exposure to live production systems, technical problem-solving, project management and the day-to-day realities of working in a fast-moving environment.

At PTI, co-op students gain more than observation time. They work alongside engineers, contribute to meaningful projects and build confidence through hands-on responsibility with the support of experienced mentors. 

At PTI, classroom concepts get real. 

Many co-op students who spend time with us also discover something more lasting: a career path.

Here, two PTI team members who began as co-op students and now serve in full-time engineering roles share how their experiences helped shape their career paths. Meet Addy Schmiedebush, one of our Project Engineers, and Jared Sippy, a Process Engineer. 

What drew you to a co-op with PTI?

What kind of projects did you contribute to during your co-op?

AS: Initially, I supported project engineers on a variety of projects and learned how each stage of a new assignment moves through the process. As I became more confident, PTI trusted me to take on my own projects and make decisions on how to handle them.

JS: I worked on a range of projects, many based in the process lab. They included project management, process improvement initiatives and operation and maintenance of injection molding equipment. One standout experience came when one of our injection presses was having electrical issues. The rest of the team was busy with customer work, so I had the opportunity to troubleshoot it myself. After learning to read electrical prints, working with support and doing a lot of problem-solving, I was able to solve it. That challenge really helped me grow as an engineer.

How did the PTI team serve as valuable mentors?

AS: Everyone at PTI helped guide me through my co-op experience and still supports me today. I was trusted to complete quality work independently, but I also knew I could ask anyone for help when needed. That balance of support and independence helped me develop my skills.

JS: One of the biggest ways the PTI team mentored me was by giving me exposure to all aspects of the business. At PTI, our team wears many hats. This made PTI a great environment to learn in because it taught me how to multitask and take initiative.

When did you realize PTI could be a long-term fit?

AS: As I got closer to graduation and started thinking about what I wanted my future to look like, I knew I wanted to stay part of the PTI team. I truly enjoy the work I do, and that’s not something you find everywhere.

JS: I realized it after I had left PTI and interned elsewhere. My other co-op experiences were not as engaging and just didn’t feel like the right fit. That led me back to PTI and the role I’m in today.

How did the co-op experience prepare you for a full-time role?

AS: My co-op experience prepared me very well. On my first day as a full-time employee, it honestly just felt like another day in the office.

JS: It gave me the building blocks to be successful. Many of the technical and soft skills I developed during my co-op are important in my full-time role today.

Looking back, what stands out most about the value of the experience?

AS: The skills I learned and the relationships I built are both incredibly valuable. I started my full-time role knowing the PTI team trusted me, and I also had confidence in myself to contribute.

JS: What stands out most is the opportunity for an inexperienced engineering student to gain exposure to different systems, software and real-world challenges in an environment that helps them succeed.

Building the Future Workforce

For students considering a co-op, experiences like these can shape more than a résumé. They can clarify career goals, build technical confidence and open doors to long-term opportunity.

We’re proud to play a leading role in educating the next generation of engineers, knowing that our investment in students also strengthens the industry as a whole. 

Interested in learning more about careers or co-op opportunities with PTI? Connect with the team to explore future openings.