Trust the Process: How Knowledge Helps Build Careers
Regardless of where you are in your career, the right education and training are essential for long-term success. While time on the job teaches you the day-to-day tasks, a deeper understanding of the science behind them transforms how you approach your work.
Ed Flores, a Principal Process Engineer at Integer, has over 25 years of industry experience. Yet, even with that extensive background, he wanted to solidify his technical foundation. To do so, he enrolled in the Plastics Technology and Engineering (PT&E) Program.
“Prior to attending the PT&E program, I felt unworthy of my position,” Ed shares. “My company prides itself on the number of degrees per employee. I don’t have those Bachelor’s or PhD degrees.”
Ed needed a program that would empower him to succeed on his own merits. That is where the American Injection Molding (AIM) Institute came in.
The Difference Between Education and Training
At AIM, our role is to guide students through the vital difference between education and training. While training focuses on specific tasks, education provides the understanding of why processes work the way they do, and empowers the students to adapt what they learn to their own circumstances.
“We recognize that quality education takes time, and that is why we designed the PT&E program the way we did” explains David Hoffman, AIM Director. “We dive deep into the subject matter, pushing students to develop critical thinking skills. We spend time online with the students reviewing homework assignments that are designed to focus a student’s learning on key principles while ensuring accuracy in their thought process.”
For Ed, this rigorous approach was the key. By focusing on the four pillars—plastic materials, mold design, injection molding, and part design—he gained the specific tools he needed to unlock his full potential.
From the Classroom to Company Recognition
While hosting a company tour of executives at his facility, Ed was able to identify and explain significant cost savings he was able to achieve using the education he gained in the PT&E program.
“I will never forget their reaction,” Ed says. “A VP gave me a fist bump and said, ‘That is awesome,’ in front of the group. I was very proud of this recognition.”
The impact of his hard work was clear. The COO personally thanked him for sharing his knowledge, and Ed has since seen his responsibilities grow from supporting a single facility to supporting two facilities and four departments.
Knowing Your Worth
Ed’s story highlights what happens when a professional commits to the learning process.
“I am pulling my weight,” Ed says. “Now I know I am both worthy of my position and the recognition that comes with it.”
We are proud to provide the education and training resources, but the success belongs to the students. When you are equipped with the right knowledge, you can lead with absolute confidence and find solutions and savings around nearly every corner.
Take the Next Step
We are currently accepting registrations for our upcoming Plastics Technology & Engineering (PT&E) Program.
- Start Date: April 13th, 2026
- Availability: Seats are limited.
Need Help with Funding?
Federal and state grants often cover employee education and training costs. Please contact us to learn more about funding opportunities.
Contact Us Phone: (814) 899-6390 or Contact Us Form.
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