Career and talent resources

MRT Insights

June 7, 2023

Celebrating Plastic Injection Molding and Its Effects on the Economy

Plastic injection molding has long been recognized as a key manufacturing process that revolutionized various industries. From automotive parts to consumer goods, the versatility and cost-effectiveness of plastics have made a huge impact on manufacturing as a whole. In addition to its manufacturing advantages, plastic injection molding plays a vital role in generating job opportunities and fostering economic growth. Here are a few reasons why MRT finds so much value in the plastics industry:

1. The Universal Application of Plastic Injection Molding:

Plastic injection molding is utilized across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, and consumer goods. All industries that MRT has served for years. This broad adoption stems from its ability to produce intricate and complex shapes with high precision and consistency. By facilitating the mass production of plastic components, injection molding supports the growth and development of industries that rely on these components.

2. Job Creation and Diversification:

The widespread use of plastic injection molding translates into a significant demand for skilled workers in this field. Injection molding operations require professionals with expertise in design, tooling, machine operation, quality control, and maintenance. As a result, the industry creates numerous job opportunities for engineers, technicians, machine operators, quality inspectors, and support staff. According to the Plastics Industry Association, the plastics industry directly employed over 1.4 million people in the United States alone, contributing to the overall economic stability of communities.

3. Manufacturing Resurgence and Local Economies:

Plastic injection molding has the potential to rejuvenate local economies and boost manufacturing sectors. By fostering job growth, it contributes to the expansion of the middle class and increases disposable income, resulting in improved local purchasing power. According to an article by the U.S. Department of Defense, American manufacturers contribute more than $2.35 trillion to the U.S. economy — every dollar spent in manufacturing results in an additional $2.79 added to the economy, making it the highest multiplier effect of any sector.

4. Research and Development:

To maintain a competitive edge, the plastics injection molding industry continually invests in research and development (R&D). This investment drives technological advancements, leading to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. R&D efforts also support the growth of adjacent industries, such as material suppliers, mold makers, and equipment manufacturers, thus creating additional job opportunities. Taken from an article at the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. manufacturing is a catalyst of innovation in the U.S. and accounts for 55% of all patents and 70% of all R&D spending.

5. Driving Manufacturing Competitiveness:

Plastic injection molding plays a vital role in maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of manufacturing sectors. Providing efficient and cost-effective manufacturing solutions, allows companies to produce high-quality products at scale. The ability to rapidly prototype and iterate designs through injection molding enables companies to bring new products to market faster, driving innovation and keeping pace with evolving customer demands.

6. Collaboration and Skill Development:

The plastic injection molding industry thrives on collaboration between manufacturers, designers, engineers, and technicians. This fosters a dynamic environment that encourages skill development, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning. Professionals in this field have opportunities to enhance their expertise, stay updated with cutting-edge technologies, and contribute to the advancement of the industry. For every manufacturing job, 7 to 12 new jobs are created in other similar industries.

Plastic careers are integral to the economy, providing job opportunities, driving manufacturing competitiveness, and contributing to sustainable practices. The industry’s ability to produce complex plastic components at scale generates employment opportunities for a diverse range of professionals, playing a pivotal role in driving job growth across various sectors and supporting local economies.

If you are considering a career path that combines creativity, technical skills, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on various industries, exploring plastic injection molding careers can be a rewarding choice. Embrace the possibilities offered by plastic injection molding and be part of a vibrant industry that propels economic growth, fosters innovation, and shapes the world around us.

Reach out to us if you have a job need or check out our open jobs!

We help build businesses. We form teams that will carry you forward. We are capable, technical, efficient, and effective.