After earning his bachelor's degree in engineering technology with an emphasis on applied manufacturing technology, Edgar Flores joined Hansen Plastics Corp. in Elgin, Ill.
"I wasn't really aware of the plastics industry at all until I started working here. What has interested [me] the most about the plastics industry is the molds that we use. I have always been drawn to understanding how mechanical things work. Over the past two years, I have been able to shift my focus from manufacturing engineering to tooling engineering. I am now taking a class that will teach me more about mold design and part design."
As a manufacturing engineer, Flores focuses on reducing operator intervention with the product, "whether that be through designing end-of-arm tooling that removes runners and disposes of it before the operator even sees it or through secondary processes like vision systems to do some of our quality inspections in cycle."
"I also do my best to keep up to date with new technology that is being released and attend relevant conferences and events that could help us stay on the cutting edge," said Flores, who also has been involved with the Manufacturers Association for Plastics Processors' automation peer networking group.
"I've attended many leadership trainings, classes and events the past four years. I'm currently enrolled in a 10-month plastics course that will result in me getting a plastics technology and engineering certificate. I understand that I work in an industry that is ever-changing and evolving. Staying ahead of the curve is crucial for my career and this industry," he said.
Some of his career highlights include designing and building an assembly station and assembly fixture for a new customer, designing and building 30-plus end-of-arm tools for the production floor, designing and building eight degating fixtures for the production floor, launching a vision system for quality checks on an insert molded part, and managing the design and build of multiple molds over the past two years.
"What interests me the most about the plastics industry is how quickly technology is advancing. This industry is still in its infancy. We're still learning new things about plastics materials on a daily basis," he said. "I think the logical next step for the industry is to look into more biodegradable materials that can be viable as metal replacements."
Flores said his greatest accomplishment has been becoming a person of influence at work.
"I believe that I have been able to accomplish this by being willing to take on challenges that fall outside of my expertise. I see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and gain experience," he said.
"The best advice I have ever received was to help the people you know to grow, and you'll grow alongside them," Flores added. "I think one of the most important things in this life is to continue to learn every single day and teach others what you've learned. My curiosity for life has been the reason why I've been able to build a purposeful life for myself."