The AIP would like to congratulate our latest Diploma in Packaging Technology Graduate, Andrew Whitson Dip. Pkg. Tech. MAIP, Research & Development Manager at Sanitarium Health Food. Internationally recognised as the premier qualification in the packaging industry the Diploma in Packaging Technology is a Level 5 PIABC, 51-credit foundation degree-level qualification that prepares students to take responsibility for packaging operations at any level through the supply chain and can also lead to higher level study.
Andrew kindly shared with the AIP what he learnt during his studies…
Q1: What is your current role? What are your areas of responsibility?
I am currently a Research and Development Manager for Sanitarium Health Food Company. I lead a small team of packaging technologists who develop and support our packaging that is used in 6 food manufacturing sites across Australia and New Zealand.
Q2: What does graduating from the Diploma in Packaging Technology mean to you?
Completing something that requires extended commitment and effort is rewarding. Even with good support, fitting part time study on top of full-time work and busy family responsibilities is a challenge at times, so it is nice to finish that off and move on to the next thing.
Q3: How will you apply this knowledge moving forward?
The information was directly relevant to what I work on professionally so it has already helped fill in the gaps in my knowledge in ways that I can use every day. Problem solving is a big part of our jobs so expanding your toolbox is important, and often asking the right questions is the most important part of solving any problem. Having completed my Diploma is a good stepping stone on that journey.
Q4: Do you have any advice on why other people should complete the Diploma in Packaging Technology?
It is a great foundation so I would encourage you to consider it. As technologists we often only deal with a subset of packaging so looking at a range of different packaging types helps round out your knowledge base. The AIP does a great job at supporting and encouraging your learning journey. Beyond just the things you learn, the opportunities to connect and engage with others in the packaging industry through this process have been really valuable.
Q5: So where to from here for your career?
I am enjoying applying the things I have learned. I am also pleased that I now support one of my team who has just commenced their Diploma in Packaging Technology studies.
Q6: Will you consider applying to become a Certified Packaging Professional as your next professional development stage?
Not immediately, but I may consider it in the future.
WHY STUDY THE DIPLOMA IN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY?
Completion of the Diploma in Packaging Technology demonstrates your commitment to your career and to the industry.
Students who successfully complete the Diploma in Packaging Technology are equipping themselves for progression within the packaging industry to a position where they can assume responsibility for packaging in a company at any point in the supply chain.