The AIP are pleased to advise that our two latest graduates from the Certificate in Packaging degree are Kuan Hwa Wong AAIP, Product Project Manager from TrendPac and Jess O’Donnell AAIP, Marketing and Procurement Manager from The Perfume Oil Company. Please join us in congratulating both Jessica and Kuan for this outstanding achievement and we look forward to watching their career progressions.
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?
Kuan:
My current role is Product Project Manager at TrendPac, a contract manufacturer for household cleaning and personal care products. I am responsible in managing new product development (NPD) projects, packaging development and improvement, and sustainability.
Jessica:
I’m currently working as Marketing Manager for Close the Loop, dealing with both collection and recycling as well as packaging creation and design projects. I have a broad range of responsibilities that incorporate traditional and digital marketing functions, as well as product/packaging training and key stakeholder management.
2. What does graduating from the Certificate in Packaging mean to you?
Kuan:
Graduating from Certificate in Packaging provides me a formal recognition to my capability and knowledge in packaging.
Jessica:
Graduating from the Certificate in Packaging has provided me a great sense of accomplishment for my achievements, while helping to solidify and expand my packaging knowledge base beyond the confines of my everyday role. It has allowed me to highlight the level of product knowledge and understanding I have to others in order to further excel in my career, as I think the need for marketers to understand not just their audience, but their product, is often undervalued.
3. How will you apply this knowledge moving forward?
Kuan:
Due to the nature of my work, I have been applying the knowledge as I learn in my day-to-day task. The learning prompt me to think further during packaging design and enable me to have more comprehensive discussion with stakeholders.
Jessica:
The course presented new areas of interest to me that I would never have had the opportunity to learn about, which opens up new avenues to explore future career pathways. As a young adult in the packaging industry, having such versatility in my packaging knowledge foundation will greatly benefit me as I continue to progress in my work life.
4. Do you have any advice on why other people should complete the Certificate in Packaging?
Kuan:
This is the right course for you if you are looking for an introduction to the packaging. The course covers the fundamental of packaging, that provides a general understanding of the purpose of packaging, packaging material types, printing and manufacturing processes.
Jessica:
For anyone always looking to learn and grow, the Certificate in Packaging is an ideal platform for future studies or upskilling in current roles were packaging knowledge is necessary, but difficult to obtain on the job every day. The flexibility of the course and ability to go at your own pace provides a real opportunity for busy professionals to still maintain a work/life/study balance while gaining new insights.
5. So where to from here for your career?
Kuan:
I see myself continue to develop my career around product development, packaging and sustainability areas in the near foreseeable future.
Jessica:
I am looking to leverage my new-found knowledge to assist my family business for their packaging requirements, while continuing to blend my skills in marketing and packaging in order to drive better outcomes for my career ahead.
6. Will you consider applying to become a Certified Packaging Professional as your next professional development stage?
Kuan:
Yes.
Jessica:
Yes definitely! After a brief hiatus…
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.