The AIP would like to congratulate our latest graduate from the Certificate in Packaging, Julia Ling AAIP, Packaging Technologist, Suntory Beverage & Food New Zealand. Please join us in congratulating Julia for this outstanding achievement and we look forward to watching her career progression.
The Certificate in Packaging is the ideal first qualification for those working in the packaging industry and an introduction to the industry for those starting out on an exciting career in packaging.
1. What is your current role? What are your areas of responsibility?
Julia:
I am a Packaging Technologist at Suntory Oceania in New Zealand, working across trans Tasman beverage projects in NPD, continuous improvement, and core brand innovation. I develop and validate packaging across multiple materials and processes, ensuring solutions are fit for purpose, cost effective, and compliant. I also support process improvement initiatives within R&D and the Packaging team, while managing our packaging data and purchasing platform. Sustainability is a key focus of my role, including leading ARL implementation, APCO reporting, and organising industry knowledge sessions that inspire more circular packaging choices across the business.
2. What does graduating from the Certificate in Packaging mean to you?
Julia:
Graduating from the Certificate in Packaging is a proud milestone for me. With my BFoodTech(Hons) background and work experience, I had strong hands on experience but I really wanted the theoretical depth to match it. This qualification has strengthened the reasoning behind my day to day decisions and connected the science of packaging with the practical work I enjoy. It is a formal recognition of my dedication to the field—and a reminder of my passion around packaging and sustainability.
3. How will you apply this knowledge moving forward?
Julia:
I have already been applying my learnings throughout the course – translating theory straight into real projects. It has sharpened my understanding of materials, sustainability frameworks, and design-for-recycling principles. Moving forward, this knowledge gives me stronger technical confidence, a broader strategic lens, and an even greater drive to deliver packaging that is both innovative and responsible.
4. Do you have any advice on why other people should complete the Certificate in Packaging?
Julia:
If you are serious about building a career in packaging, this course is a fantastic foundation. It gives you a clear understanding of materials, processes, sustainability, and the end to end role packaging plays across the supply chain. Balancing full time work and study does require discipline—I took around eight months from enrolment to exam—but the flexibility of the on-line format and the great support from the AIP Education team make the journey achievable. The content is practical, relevant, and something you can immediately use in your role.
5. So where to from here for your career?
Julia:
I am excited to continue developing as a packaging professional, with sustainability guiding every step. I want to keep building expertise, contribute to innovation, and help shape packaging solutions that are better for people, products, and the planet.
6. Will you consider applying to become a Certified Packaging Professional as your next professional development stage?
Julia:
Yes in the future, it will be a great way to demonstrate on-going commitment to the profession and deepen my capability further.
The Certificate in Packaging is a Level 3 PIABC degree that is recognised as giving an excellent foundation in, and introduction to, the packaging industry. The new course provides a level of insight and understanding of the packaging industry that adds real and measurable value to careers and businesses.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?
The Certificate in Packaging provides a level of insight and understanding of the packaging industry that adds real and measurable value to careers and businesses. This qualification provides you with the detailed overview of packaging materials and processes that broadens your knowledge and equips you for progression within the packaging industry.