Logan Tate is working on a bachelor's degree in plastics and polymer engineering technologies at Pennsylvania College of Technology. This summer he's an intern at B. Braun Medical.
Tate also has worked as a research assistant and intern at the school's Plastics Innovation and Resource Center.
Tate already had a degree in physics when he came to plastics.
"Plastics hadn't crossed my mind until my cousin, who is in the industry, said, 'Plastics is everything.' If physics is everywhere and plastics is everything, it only made sense to combine the two."
Biggest failure and what it taught you? Although I love physics and mathematics, looking back, it wasn't the right program for me. Regardless of how much time you have invested in something, don't be hesitant to step away and evaluate what is best for you. Find your true calling and embrace it.
What emerging technology or market most interests you? Flexible packaging. These products are at the forefront of innovative solutions. There will always be a need to make packaging more economical, reduce the carbon footprint, increase consumer convenience and extend product shelf life.
What about the plastics industry surprises you? The lack of young professionals entering the plastics industry. I have been to six conferences thus far, and the message is always the same: "Where are the graduates?" The industry is full of experienced professionals who are getting ready to pass the torch ... but who will they pass it to?
Who is your mentor, or someone you look up to? My mother is compassionate, loving, caring, thoughtful and hardworking. What I appreciate most about my mom is that although she may not understand my education and career, she has always been my No. 1 fan. She has always told me to challenge myself and to look at the bigger picture when things got tough.