Joseph Valenti, 30
Quality Engineer, Natech Plastics Inc.
Joseph Valenti graduated from the State University of New York's Farmingdale State College with bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering technology and electrical engineering technology, and he is currently pursuing a master's degree in engineering technology management.
He joined the plastics industry in 2020 with the title quality engineer for Ronkonkoma, N.Y.-based custom injection molder Natech Plastics Inc. It specializes in end-to-end services for clients in the medical device and diagnostics markets.
"In my previous work, I spent a lot of time measuring complex features of different types of parts," he said. "Plastic materials were always the most difficult to work with. The challenge was interesting to me."
Before joining Natech, Valenti was at JAD Specialty of Plainview, N.Y., in roles such as service technician, application engineer and additive manufacturing manager. Valenti has also been an adjunct professor at Farmingdale since January 2019, with areas of concentration including quality control, computer-aided design, technical drafting and AutoCAD, tool design and electrical principles.
"I have spent a lot of time learning different technology and sciences that aid in my abilities to perform my assigned tasks effectively," he said.
Valenti participates in the Manufacturers Association for Plastic Processors and the American Society for Quality. Since the pandemic started, he has not attended an industry event, but prior to that, he regularly attended trade show events such as MD&M East and the International Manufacturing Technology Show.
Valenti was nominated for Rising Stars by Ashley Turrell, director of marketing and strategy for Natech Plastics.
Q: What is your greatest achievement?
Valenti: I bought my very first home. I had a goal in mind and a vision of what it looked like in the end. It is truly rewarding to live that vision.
Q: What is your philosophy related to plastics and sustainability? What steps have you taken to improve plastics' sustainability, either in work, your community or personal life?
Valenti: As demand for plastic parts increase, especially for single-use devices, I believe it is necessary to proactively engage in minimizing waste as a byproduct. I am a huge advocate of recycling and also limit the use of plastic in my daily routines.
Q: One of our criteria for Rising Stars is whether they are active in plastics industry, manufacturing or their community. How are you involved?
Valenti: Building different style 3D printers.