1. Why is re-certifying for the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) Designation so important to you personally? What do you have to do to re-certify?

Wilsen:
Recertifying is important to me as it shows you are passionate about packaging and not just a one-time off certificate for job opportunities.
“My end goal in recertifying is to attain the CPPL and to set an example for packaging professionals in Malaysia.” In order recertify again; I would opt for the experience and resume option as you not only build packaging knowledge and connections but you also get to see different packaging technology and how to adapt to your own country.  There are other options such as technical examinations but choose the one which fits your time and availability.

2. Would you recommend the Certified Packaging Professional program to other AIP Members and why?

Wilsen:
I would definitely recommend the Certified Packaging Professional program to other AIP members because it shows that you have the capability to share packaging knowledge based on your competency level. Knowledge is not only gained through work experience but the exposure to many technical experts around the world where the program gets you to explore. The CPP program is a global standard of excellence and only those who have attained it and maintain it shows the industry that you are the go-to person for packaging related matters.

3. What is the value for packaging professionals all over the world to have a CPP designation?

Wilsen:
CPP designation is a global standard of excellence in the packaging Industry. It is recognised not only by AIP, but IoPP and WPO as well. The CPP is the flagship certification globally as a packaging professional. It opens up doors to many possibilities around the world for a packaging professional to explore. “It is an investment that grows as you gain industry experience and knowledge whereby you are still in demand in every changing environment.”

4. What next for your career?

Wilsen:
Next in my career is to attain the CPPL title as well as to undergo the Diploma in Packaging Technology through the AIP. If all goes well, would be able to attain both the CPPL title and complete the Diploma in Packaging Technology to be a packaging technologist who is skilled and trained by the AIP.

1. What is your current role? What are your areas of responsibility?

Sandini: 
I am currently working as a Quality Control Assistant at Caspak, Ball & Doggett. My role involves conducting quality control testing, maintaining batch traceability records, reviewing product artwork and label compliance, coordinating supplier and customer quality documentation, investigating quality issues, and supporting quality assurance activities. These responsibilities help ensure that our products meet food packaging standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.

2. What made you select the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course through the AIP?

Sandini:    
Working in the flexible packaging industry, I wanted to strengthen my technical knowledge and develop a broader understanding of packaging beyond my day-to-day responsibilities. The Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course is internationally recognised and provides a comprehensive overview of packaging materials, design, manufacturing processes, sustainability, regulations, and packaging performance. I saw it as an excellent opportunity to build a strong technical foundation and support my long-term career development within the packaging industry.

3. What did you learn along the way? Any favourite areas or topics?

Sandini:    
The course gave me a much deeper appreciation of the complexity of packaging and its critical role throughout the supply chain. I particularly enjoyed learning about flexible packaging materials, packaging design, sustainability, packaging testing, and barrier technologies. Since I work in flexible packaging, it was especially valuable to understand not only how packaging is manufactured, but also how material selection, product protection, transport, consumer expectations, and environmental considerations all influence packaging decisions.

4. What advice would you offer anyone looking to undertake the complete Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course?

Sandini: 
My advice would be to approach the course with curiosity and consistency. The content is comprehensive, so setting aside regular study time and relating the concepts to real workplace examples makes the learning experience much more meaningful. Rather than rushing through the material, take the time to understand how the different topics connect. Whether you are new to the packaging industry or have years of experience, the course provides practical knowledge that can be applied in the workplace.

5. Would you consider now completing the Certified Packaging Professional designation (CPP) as your next step?

Sandini:
Absolutely. Completing the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course has strengthened my interest in continuing my professional development by pursuing the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation. I see the CPP as an excellent opportunity to further develop my technical expertise, gain internationally recognised credentials, and contribute more effectively to the packaging industry. It aligns closely with my long-term career goals of supporting sustainable, innovative packaging solutions, and I look forward to taking that next step.

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We invited Cyprian to share with us what attaining the Certified Packaging Professional Designation means to him…

1.  How long have you been in the industry?  What are your areas of expertise?

Cyprian:

I have over 20 years of experience as a Packaging Technologist across multiple industries, including pet food, culinary sauces, confectionery, dairy, and alcohol. I also worked on the supplier side as a Product Development Specialist, developing bag-in-box solutions for both fresh and aseptic applications. This diverse
experience has provided exposure to a wide range of packaging materials, technologies, and machinery. Based in New Zealand, my on-going professional interest is barrier packaging and shelf life preservation through both material innovation and packaging equipment.

2. What made you apply for the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) Designation?

Cyprian: 
I pursued the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation to formally validate the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout my career while strengthening my connection to the wider packaging profession. While much of my role focuses on solving day-to-day packaging challenges and delivering practical solutions, I wanted to broaden and test my understanding of packaging disciplines beyond my immediate area of expertise.

“Achieving the CPP designation recognises my professional capabilities and reflects my commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and maintaining high industry standards.”

3. How important is attaining the CPP designation to you as an individual?

Cyprian:   
Attaining the CPP designation is important to me because it’s a demonstration my commitment to continuous professional development and enhances my credibility as a packaging professional. I believe it will help me contribute more effectively to strategic packaging initiatives while supporting my long-term career growth. It provides exposure to a growing number of CPP’s available for knowledge sharing and industry best practice exchange.

4. How important is the CPP designation for the greater recognition of people in the packaging industry?

Cyprian:
The CPP designation is important for raising the profile of the packaging profession. I believe it helps showcase the value packaging technologists bring and positions packaging as an attractive career for new talent. As a globally recognised credential, the CPP represents a strong commitment to technical excellence and professional development and gives every packaging technologist something to aspire to.

5. Were there any new learnings or takeaways that you gained from the experience?

Cyprian:    
Over the years, working with a wide range of materials and packaging technologies has given me valuable practical experience. The Fundamentals of Packaging Technology textbook helped deepen my understanding of the science behind many challenges I have encountered and reinforced solutions I had successfully applied in practice. It also provided greater clarity on technical areas often managed by suppliers. By bringing together the fundamentals across a broad industry, the textbook connected concepts from different disciplines and highlighted the importance of a strong technical foundation in packaging.

6.  What next for your career?

Cyprian:    

I look forward to continuing to contribute to my role through involvement in strategic packaging initiatives, particularly around sustainable packaging. As the industry continues to evolve, I remain committed to continuous learning and staying current with emerging technologies, regulations, and best practices.

“Achieving the CPP designation is an important milestone, and I plan to maintain my certification through ongoing professional development, with Lifetime Certification as a long-term goal.”

1.  How long have you been in the industry?  What are your areas of expertise?

Coster:
I have spent well over two decades in the packaging industry in different continents, working across technical, research, and operational roles. My expertise spans packaging materials science, packaging research and innovation, sustainability focused development, packaging design, material development, validation and implementation and packaging optimisation across the value chain. A key focus of my work has been translating scientific and technical knowledge into practical, scalable packaging solutions that meet both commercial and environmental objectives.

2. What made you re-certify for the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) Designation?

Coster: 
ecoming the first New Zealand lifetime CPP for the CPP designation was a deliberate decision for me to demonstrate my continued commitment to professional excellence. Packaging is a rapidly evolving discipline, driven by sustainability expectations, regulatory change, and technological advancement and I believe it is essential to continually validate that my knowledge and competencies remain current and relevant. The CPP designation represents a globally recognised benchmark of professionalism in packaging, and maintaining it reflects my dedication to staying at the forefront of the industry.

3. How important is attaining the CPPL designation to you as an individual?

Coster:   
On a personal level, becoming the first lifetime CPP in New Zealand is both affirming and motivating. It provides an opportunity for structured reflection on professional development while reinforcing accountability to the highest standards of practice. It also demonstrates a mindset of lifelong learning, which I consider critical in a technical field where innovation and responsibility must progress together. It also provides a sense of pride, knowing that my packaging qualifications, experience, learning, and professional conduct meet an internationally recognised benchmark.

4. How important is the CPP designation for the greater recognition of people in the packaging industry?

Coster:
The CPP designation plays a vital role in elevating the visibility and credibility of packaging professionals globally. Packaging is often under recognised despite its critical role in product protection, sustainability, and consumer safety. By establishing a consistent professional standard, the CPP helps position packaging as a strategic, multidisciplinary profession comparable to other recognised and established engineering and scientific fields.

5. Were there any new learnings or takeaways that you gained from the re-certification experience?

Coster:    
Yes, particularly around the increasing integration of sustainability, circular economy principles, and regulatory frameworks into everyday packaging decision making. The process reinforced the importance of systems thinking, cross functional collaboration, and balancing innovation with compliance, performance, and environmental responsibility.

6.  What next for your career?

Coster:    
Looking ahead, I intend to continue contributing at a strategic and technical level, supporting innovation in sustainable packaging systems and mentoring emerging professionals in the field. Maintaining my CPP status aligns strongly with my goal of driving meaningful impact, both through technical expertise and by helping strengthen the professional standing of packaging practitioners across the industry.

Narong (Sovannarong) Pech AAIP

The AIP would like to take this opportunity to welcome Narong (Sovannarong) Pech AAIP, to the Institute and share a little bit about who they are and and what they do in the industry. Please join with us in welcoming them to the AIP.

1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?

Narong:
I joined the AIP because I want to stay connected to the packaging industry and keep up to date with the latest developments and technologies in this constantly evolving field. With new regulations emerging regularly, it’s important for me to stay informed and maintain current knowledge.

2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?

Narong:
I haven’t worked exclusively in packaging, but my previous role at Dentalife was as an R&D Engineer, where I was responsible for equipment and process validation. This also included packaging validation, particularly due to the challenges of finding suitable packaging for disinfectant products, which often have complex material interactions.
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As part of this work, I collaborated closely with packaging suppliers and internal teams to identify and implement the right packaging solutions. I spent 3.5 years in that role and have recently moved into my new position at Swisse Wellness.
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My areas of expertise include new packaging line validation trials, packaging stability studies, and material compatibility testing.

3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?

Narong:
My current role is Packaging Technologist at Swisse. My responsibilities focus on ensuring data integrity across the entire packaging portfolio for ANZ and Asia. I support packaging design for NPD pipelines, working closely with the sourcing team and manufacturing partners. I’m also involved in sustainable packaging initiatives, collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop packaging solutions that best support product launches. Additionally, I support the quality team on packaging-related quality challenges and lead the implementation of recommended solutions.

Uthaman Kalidas MAIP

The AIP would like to take this opportunity to welcome Uthaman Kalidas MAIP, to the Institute and share a little bit about who they are and and what they do in the industry. Please join with us in welcoming them to the AIP.

1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?

Uthaman:
I joined the AIP to connect with like-minded professionals and contribute to the advancement of packaging innovation and education. Having worked in the industry for almost two decades, I strongly believe that knowledge sharing and collaboration are key to solving the challenges we face today, particularly around efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation. The AIP provides a platform to stay updated on best practices, industry research, and global trends, while also offering opportunities to exchange expertise through networking, events, and publications. For me, being part of the AIP means having a stronger voice in the industry, enhancing my own professional growth, and contributing back to the packaging community that has shaped my career.

2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?

Uthaman:
I have been working in the printing and packaging industry for over 19 years, spanning multiple sectors including flexible, label, and carton packaging. Over the years, I have specialised in Print MIS and ERP solutions, particularly with EFI/ePS Radius ERP, PrintFlow, and AutoCount 4D. My expertise includes driving workflow automation, supply chain optimisation, and business intelligence integration to help organisations improve efficiency, reduce costs, and scale operations. Beyond ERP, I also have in-depth technical knowledge in prepress, digital printing, and colour management.
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In addition to implementation, I actively contribute to industry research, publishing scholarly articles, and presenting at conferences on topics ranging from AI in ERP to print process optimisation. This combination of technical knowledge, hands-on implementation, and research involvement defines my professional expertise and contribution to the industry.

3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?

Uthaman:
I currently serve as Senior Solutions Architect – Print MIS at Five Star Management Company, where I lead large-scale ERP implementations and digital transformation initiatives for packaging enterprises. My responsibilities include designing and deploying customised MIS and ERP solutions, automating business and production workflows, and integrating ERP systems with analytics platforms such as Power BI for real-time business intelligence. I also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, ensuring that technology aligns with business goals while enhancing operational performance. Beyond solution design, I mentor and train professionals in ERP best practices, enabling knowledge transfer and long-term success for client organisations. My role combines technical consulting, leadership, and innovation, ensuring packaging businesses can adapt to evolving customer demands and remain competitive in a fast-changing global market.

The internationally recognised on-line Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (FPT) bite-sized modules are available exclusively through the AIP in Australasia.  The FPT Course is set up for the convenience of busy working professionals, and the training platform is functionally intuitive. Arindham kindly shared with the AIP what he learnt during his studies…

1. What is your current role? What are your areas of responsibility?

Arindam: 
I am currently working as Graphic Pre-Press Operator at Sealed Air New Zealand and I have been working in the printing industry since 2004. My main skills are in graphic pre-press in large commercial printing, small scale paper-based packaging and label printing.

2. What made you select the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course through the AIP?

Arindam:    
To gain wider knowledge of the fundamentals of packaging technology I found the AIP is the right place to go. The FPT course is great foundational knowledge for everyone.

3. What did you learn along the way? Any favourite areas or topics?

Arindam:    
I learnt various aspects of packaging technology with my favourite areas being Packaging design, Print, Plastic and Paper.

4. What advice would you offer anyone looking to undertake the complete Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course?

Arindam: 
For anyone in the Australasian region the AIP are here to support you to undertake the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course.

5. Would you consider now completing the Certified Packaging Professional designation (CPP) as your next step?

Arindam: 
Yes, I am looking forward to completing the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation as the next step for my professional development.

Hooi Wei Loo MAIP

The AIP would like to take this opportunity to welcome Loo Hooi Wei MAIP, Regional Packaging Lead AOA, Nestlé CPW, to the Institute and share a little bit about who and what they do in the industry. Please join with us in welcoming them to the AIP.

1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?

Hooi Wei:
The AIP offers an overview of packaging industry neither downstream manufacturer or upstream supplier. The AIP connects me to packaging’s latest technology, innovation, digitalisation and ECG topic that enhance and open new views for me. The AIP also provides information on training, exhibitions and events for the packaging community. This is very useful as I can have access to useful information at my finger tips.

2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?

Hooi Wei:
I started my packaging career about 19 years ago, beginning from a offset paper packaging company then step into corrugated manufacturing company with intention to learn more about display boxs (or primary cartons) integrated with secondary corrugated case. Mainly I deal with new development including board structure design and provide solutions to FMCG customer. Moving from there, I joined FMCG (food & beverage) and explored flexible laminate, rigid plastic, aluminum can, aseptic carton, PET bottle and that link to multiple types of packaging technology.

3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?

Hooi Wei:
From my first day in the packaging industry, I have always dealt with new development, driving new products (or types of packaging), cost optimisation, line improvement and support packaging-related trouble shooting. At Nestlé, I have been assigned to develop sustainability packaging such as paper straws, paper cluster sleeves (in replacing flexible plastic), rPET (for rigid plastic and tray shrinkfilm) and support the company/brand on effort plastic neutral as part of puzzle in Net-Zero. With this I take a broader role in coordinating Nestlé CPW factories in zone AOA (Asia, Oceania, Africa) to support and drive packaging-related development.

Arindam Haldar AAIP

The AIP would like to take this opportunity to welcome Arindam Haldar MAIP, Graphic Pre-Press Operator, Sealed Air New Zealand to the Institute and share a little bit about who they are and what they do in the industry. Please join with us in welcoming them to the AIP.

1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?

Arindam:
I joined the AIP to study the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology On-line Course. I also want to gain more current knowledge in the packaging industry and AIP members get discounted fees and support.

2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?

Arindam:
I am working in the printing industry since 2004. My main skill area is graphic pre-press in the large commercial printing, small scale paper based packaging and label printing.

3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?

Arindam:
In my current role I am working as Graphic Pre-Press Operator at Sealed Air New Zealand. My responsibilities are Pre-Press planning for film and paper bag printing.

1. Why did you join the AIP? What benefits do you believe the AIP offers all their members?

Nancy:
I joined the AIP to be part of a community of packaging professionals, and in the short time I have been a member I can already tell that these really are my people. There is something so valuable about being surrounded by others who understand the intricacies of our industry and the challenges we face.

The AIP also helps me broaden my technical knowledge, which is crucial for achieving more strategic design results for my clients. I recently attended mini-training courses alongside of FoodTech QLD which was a great way to gain quick knowledge from industry experts and keep up to date with developments and innovations. The packaging world is moving so fast, and staying current is a must to provide the best guidance for my clients.

Rahul:
I joined the AIP to connect with like-minded professionals, stay up to date on packaging innovations, and contribute meaningfully to the Australasian packaging industry. AIP offers valuable access to educational resources, industry training, and a collaborative platform for sharing best practices, which are essential for continuous improvement and innovation.

2. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?

Nancy:
I have been in the design industry for over 15 years as a graphic designer, with product development experience before that collaborating with factories overseas to design products. That experience has given me a really broad skillset and understanding of the full lifecycle of packaging and products from concept to market.

Since 2019, I have been specialising in packaging design and sustainable design consultation, working both within consumer brand organisations and through my design studio, NJD Creative.

In total, I have over 20 years in the consumer brand world, with certifications as both a Graphic Designer and Sustainable Packaging Professional. My areas of expertise include story-led brand development, sustainable packaging strategy, circular design education and comprehensive packaging design solutions.

Rahul:
I have over 18 years of experience in the paper, printing, and packaging industry. My core expertise includes product development, sustainable substrates, functional coatings, process optimisation, and regulatory compliance for both flexible and decorative packaging formats.

3. What is your current job role and what are your responsibilities?

Nancy:
In my current role as designer & sustainable packaging consultant at NJD Creative, I run a design consultancy that helps Australian consumer brands design and develop packaging that incorporates sustainability throughout. I do this through a process of brand & design theory, circular design thinking and by adhering to local design & regulatory standards.

I work with brands of all sizes, from startups to corporates, with a focus on consumer packaged goods. Most of my clients come to me because they are either overwhelmed by the complexities of the design process, lack knowledge of circular design strategies, or don’t have sufficient in-house design support or sustainability guidance.

What I love most about my work is that I can bridge the gap between quality design and sustainability expertise for SME brands who may not have the budget to hire a large agency. I offer a collaborative, personalised approach that leaves my clients feeling empowered to make confident design decisions for their brand.

Decisions that support their business goals and brand growth, while also supporting the current collection and processing systems rather than hindering them.

Rahul:
As the Technical Director at Wallquest Inc., I lead Product Development and Technical support for wallcovering products, focusing on water-based inks, non-woven substrates, and environmentally responsible coatings. I oversee new product development, quality improvement initiatives, and regulatory certifications (such as VOC, HPD, EPD, and NSF-342 standards). I also collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure innovation and commercial viability.