Community feedback and buy-in on the Polymer Industry Cluster is key to our developing a strategy that drives economic growth to our region. Please take this 10-minute survey by Sunday, April 20 to share how we connect, engage, and improve our communications with you on activity related to our region's polymer industry. Your answers will remain confidential.

Build Connections at our Upcoming Networking Reception

Join the Polymer Industry Cluster for our second networking reception of the year on Tuesday, June 17 from 5:00-7:00 pm at BLU-tique. This is an opportunity for business leaders in the polymer industry and its supply chain to build and strengthen within the industry, share ideas, and have a fun time. Drinks and appetizers will be provided.

Connect Your Interns to Greater Akron this Summer

Looking for ways to get your summer interns connected to our region? The Greater Akron Chamber has several opportunities planned:

• June 12, 2025 | Interns Get Connected with Greater Akron
• June 25, 2025 | Finding, Knowing, and Building Upon Your Strengths
• July 10, 2025 | Interns at the Ballpark: Building Connections & Growing Your Network

Registration will open soon! For more information, contact Hope Bell.

A global leader in the chemical industry, LyondellBasell is driving innovation for a more sustainable future. From expanding global recycling capacity to accelerating scalable tech like MoReTec, their efforts are shaping a circular, low-carbon economy. As one of the world’s largest polymer producers, they’re delivering high-performance materials for clean water, food safety, transportation, and healthcare—while investing in closed-loop solutions to reduce plastic waste and optimize value chains.

A pioneer in polymer innovation, Kraton Corporation invented styrenic block copolymers (SBC) more than 60 years ago—and they're still redefining performance today. From adhesives and paving to medical applications, Kraton’s high-performance polymer solutions deliver unmatched durability, flexibility, adhesion, and weatherability across industries. With a deep commitment to research and sustainability, they continue to lead the way in creating polymers that enhance both product performance and everyday life.

Low-Cost Opportunity to Upskill Your Employees

Did you know you can be reimbursed for up to $180,000 per year in employee training through the State of Ohio? TechCred is an application-based program that provides employers the opportunity to upskill their employees by earning industry-recognized credentials. 

The next Tech Cred application period will open from May 1-31, 2025. Tune into a free webinar on Monday, May 12 at 2:00 pm to learn more about how to apply, the eligibility requirements, and the reimbursement process. You can also access step-by-step instructions here.

Upcoming Polymer Training at UA

The University of Akron’s Akron Polymer Training Services (APTS) delivers specialized workforce training tailored to the evolving needs of the polymer industry through hands-on, on-site training and flexible online courses. Explore upcoming training opportunities to enhance your team’s expertise and drive innovation:

• Understanding Polymers and their Applications | April 25
• Plastic Material Selection and Testing | May 1-2
• Rheological Theories and Their Direct Applications in the Polymer Industry | May 5-7 OR July 14-16
• Polymer Science for Engineers | May 6-8
• Rubber Injection Molding | May 7-9

For course details and registration, visit Akron Polymer Training Services.

Earn Your CEUs with Rubber Division, ACS Training

Rubber Division, ACS offers industry-leading training through free webinars for members and complimentary courses for undergraduate student members, many of which offer CEUs through the University of Akron.

The ACS Training Pass provides unlimited access to courses for individuals or companies looking to invest in their workforce, making it easier than ever to upskill employees and stay ahead of industry trends.

Upcoming Training Opportunities:

• Course: Processing & Testing of Rubber | April 24
• Webinar: U.S. Regulatory Compliance in the Rubber Industry | April 30
• Webinar: Global Rubber Technology – Processes, Current Status & Future | May 8
• Course: An Introduction to Continuous Vulcanization | May 15
• Webinar: Case Studies in Failure Analysis | May 21

For course details and registration, visit Rubber Division, ACS Education and Training.

Ohio House Introduces MTAP Bill

House Bill 159, led by Representatives Nick Santucci and Steve Demetriou, would create the Manufacturing Technologies Assistance Grant Program. The bill aims to support small- to mid-sized manufacturers in Ohio modernize and innovate their production processes with the help of up to $150,000 for the investment of “smart technologies” such as machinery, equipment, and training. 

This piece of legislation is critically important to Ohio manufacturers’ ability to invest in advanced technologies and training. This not only boosts their productivity and efficiency, but it also ensures they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market and contributes to economic growth throughout the state.

Akron polymer cluster drew big bucks. Now the rubber's got to hit the road

The polymer cluster is moving ahead with plans to start new businesses, spark innovation, build worker skills and create new jobs, despite uncertainty about a big federal investment.



Read more from Ideastream Public Media

Akron to host statewide economic development conference

The Ohio Economic Development Association’s annual summit will bring about 500 economic development partners to the John S. Knight Center this fall.

Read more from Signal Akron

NSF awards $660K for UA project looking at polymers on molecular level

The four-year research project will focus on a common type of plastic called semicrystalline polymers, which is used in grocery bags.

Read more from the Akron Beacon Journal

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