For the seventh time, PMMI chose the Annual Meeting stage (Hershey, Pa.) to honor the 10 best and brightest young professionals in the packaging and processing industry with the On the Rise Award. PMMI’s Emerging Leaders Committee developed the awards program to recognize young professionals with leadership potential in packaging and processing. Each comes from a different background and provides a unique, forward-thinking perspective. OEM Magazine was fortunate to speak with each one and offer a glimpse into these outstanding rising stars in the industry.
Cole Anderson
During a global pandemic, when industries worldwide faced unprecedented challenges, Cole Anderson, assembly manager at PDC International Corp., encountered an unexpected opportunity. This chance encounter marked the beginning of a journey into the world of packaging.
Anderson quickly earned the respect of his more senior co-workers with his advanced technical skills, attention to detail, and leadership qualities when he came on board as a machine assembler. He was promoted to assembly manager and implemented process improvements in the assembly department. Now, 90% of the machines are assembled on- or under-budget. On-time delivery schedules are met consistently, and the company is better prepared for factory acceptance tests. Anderson chairs PDC International’s mid-management EOS Leadership team, and through his direction, communication among the engineering, inventory, machine shop, and assembly departments has improved immensely, resulting in better workflow and morale.
One of Anderson’s early challenges was transitioning from managing a few tasks on the production floor to overseeing numerous projects, which was a daunting shift. It required a new level of organization and communication, skills that were honed through trial and error. Developing a personalized system for notetaking and project management became essential, as did fostering open lines of communication with colleagues. This collaborative approach ensured that projects stayed on track and deadlines were met…