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In this issue:
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Become an employer partner of the Good Jobs Challenge APEX Initiative to help build talent for polymers and advanced manufacturing careers
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ICYMI: Green Chemistry Pioneer calls on industry leaders to drive innovation that supports a circular economy at PC3 — listen back on the podcast
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Welcome, new PIC members The Lubrizol Corporation and Amware Cotter
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Over the last two years, a regional team has been developing a proposal for the National Science Foundation’s Engines program, focused on capitalizing Northeast Ohio’s strong manufacturing legacy and elevate the region as a global leader. Northeast Ohio is now among just 15 national finalists in this highly competitive program.
The NEO-SMART Engine, led by Case Western Reserve University alongside partners like Greater Cleveland Partnership, Greater Akron Chamber, TeamNEO, and more than 50 additional partners across industry, education, government, and non-profits, focuses on driving innovation in critical sectors such as metals, polymers, and specialty chemicals and coatings. If successful, the proposal could secure $160 million in federal investment to Northeast Ohio over ten years, opening doors to many more opportunities for the region.
As we approach the final stage of this competition, preparations are underway for the NEO-SMART NSF Engine site visit scheduled for mid-January 2026. During this multi-day, in-person event, NSF staff and external reviewers will visit Northeast Ohio to learn more about our initiative, explore our strategy in depth, and assess our collaborative efforts. Interested in learning more or getting involved? Contact Nick Barendt, Case Western Reserve University.
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Join the APEX Initiative to Elevate our Advanced Manufacturing and Polymer Workforce
Earlier this year, the Greater Akron Chamber, on behalf of the Polymer Industry Cluster, received funding to support the Advanced Polymer and Manufacturing Excellence (APEX) initiative that will focus on creating accessible career pathways in the polymer and advanced manufacturing sectors. We are actively seeking support from employers to help shape this program by contributing to the development of training content, hosting interns, and identifying upskilling opportunities that will drive your business growth.
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Statewide Collaboration at the Innovation Summit
At the recent Innovation Summit hosted at First Solar’s Toledo facility, representatives from the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub joined peers from Ohio’s other Innovation Hubs to share updates, explore synergies, and chart new paths for collaboration. The meeting showcased the momentum building across the state—from advanced manufacturing to sustainable materials and digital innovation—and highlighted how the hubs are collectively driving Ohio’s innovation economy.
Together with leaders from Dayton (Digital Transformation), Toledo (Glass), Youngstown (Additive Manufacturing), and officials from the Ohio Department of Development, discussions focused on accelerating cross-hub partnerships, amplifying impact, advancing education and workforce, and turning regional strengths into statewide opportunities. The sense of shared purpose and possibility through collaboration was evident — proof that innovation truly thrives when Ohio works together.
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Innovation Pilot Facility Updates
Momentum is building on the design and construction of a kilogram-scale laboratory which will enable researchers and businesses to begin scale-up or innovate new materials.
After receiving strong interest from nine firms in response to the Request for Qualifications, a team of stakeholders alongside the Polymer Industry Cluster has narrowed the list to four finalists and is now requesting full proposals. A decision is expected by the end of November, paving the way for detailed design and engineering work to begin on the site adjacent to the National Polymer Innovation Center on the University of Akron (UA) campus.
Meanwhile, the UA is preparing the site adjacent to the National Polymer Innovation Center by demolishing the existing structure, ensuring construction can start promptly once the design phase concludes.
| | | Upcoming Events Across the Industry | | |
2026 AMLCI Materials Day
📅 Apr 10-11, 2026 | 📍 Kent State University
Learn more about the fascinating applications of liquid crystal polymers, elastomers, and networks. Registration is free for Polymer Industry Cluster members.
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REMADE Institute: Circular Economy Funding
The REMADE Institute issued a Request for Proposals for demonstration, verification, and validation products (DV&V) focused on circular economy technologies. The RFP represents up to $6 million, for up to $250k/project, 12-months; requires 1:1 cost-share.
While the Polymer Industry Cluster is not currently a member institution at REMADE, Case Western Reserve University (a PIC and REMADE member) can support a PIC partner interested in pursuing this funding.
| | WELCOME: NEW PIC INVESTORS | | The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a science-based specialty chemical company delivering sustainable innovations that advance mobility, improve well-being, and enhance modern life. Founded in 1928 in Cleveland, Ohio, Lubrizol operates over 100 manufacturing facilities and employs more than 7,000 people globally. | | |
Based right here in Akron, Amware Cotter provides comprehensive warehousing, packaging, and logistics solutions for manufacturers. With expertise in polymer packaging—handling polyethylene, polypropylene, PET, and EVA using contaminant-free systems—they combine advanced facilities and rail access to support efficient, reliable operations for growing businesses. | | | TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUR TEAM | | |
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 November 3-December 1, 2025. Tune into a free webinar on Monday, November 3 at 11:00 AM to learn more about how to apply, the eligibility requirements, and the reimbursement process. You can also access step-by-step instructions here.
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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:
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Understanding Raw Materials, the Building Blocks of Rubber Compounding | Nov 10, 2025
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Plastic Product Design and Development | Nov 10-12, 2025
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Solving Problems in Rubber Compounding and Processing | Nov 12-14, 2025
For course details and registration, visit Akron Polymer Training Services.
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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:
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Course: Endurica Workshop | Nov 3 & Nov 11
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Course: Rubber Explained | Nov 5
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Course: Dynamic Viscoelastic Properties | Nov 6
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Course: An Introduction to Continuous Vulcanization | Nov 12
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Course: Static, Dynamic & Fatigue Characterization Testing | Nov 18
For course details and registration, visit Rubber Division, ACS Education and Training.
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Akron nonprofits band together with Polymer Industry Cluster
"...as the saying goes, no man is an island—or in this case, no organization can act alone... the cluster's ability to bring real change and innovation to Akron—and the world at large—partially rests on the abilities of its partners to do the same."
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Improvements to lab spaces at Akron’s Bounce Innovation Hub intended to help polymer startups
Part of the Polymer Industry Cluster work, the upgrades could include smaller, more affordable labs ideal for new companies.
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3 Ways the Polymer Industry Cluster has evolved
The Polymer Industry Cluster has been an organization for several years, but it's just now getting to the point where its vision and potential impact on the Akron and Northeast Ohio region is coming into focus.
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