Laker Nation News

Lake Land College introduced the Paris community to its new plastics manufacturing program, the first of its kind in a 180-mile radius, on Thursday, Nov. 29.

The program meets the region’s need for skilled employees in the plastics manufacturing industry. Students will gain hands-on experience in injection and extrusion molding processes and equipment coupled with basic maintenance and automation skills used for several positions in plastics manufacturing.

“When Lake Land College approached us about using the VoTech Center to teach the classes, we thought it was a great opportunity for area residents to gain valuable skills,” said Paris Mayor Craig Smith.

Paris Economic Development Organization Director Terry Elston also showed support for the Lake Land program at the press conference saying “We applaud Lake Land College for working with our area businesses leaders to develop a program that is so timely and relevant to our region.”

The new program is a collaborative effort among several businesses, educational institutions and the community. Evening courses will be held for the first time beginning January 7 and will follow the semester schedule for the college, ending with finals the week of May 7.

“Lake Land College is proud to offer the new major exclusively in the city of Paris and have the mayor and city’s council’s support in hosting the lab at this location,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said.

Area companies such as North American Lighting and Libman Co. have already dedicated resources and funds to get the program started.

“We are grateful to NAL for donating two (2) 90-ton injection molding presses and a die to use with them,” Bullock said, “Early in the development process, The Libman Company, joined NAL in assisting the college in creating the program. The company donated $10,000 to the college as well as two used dies for the injection molding press.”

“We are also grateful to Eastern Illinois University for donating several pieces of equipment to be used in the lab,” Bullock said.

The Lake Land College Foundation also gifted an electric Toshiba 180-ton injection molding press. “We are fortunate to be a part of the new manufacturing program that will provide opportunities for residents to train for a career and will assist businesses in meeting the need for a highly skilled workforce,” Foundation Board President Michael Bohannon said.

To learn more about the new plastics program contact Michael Beavers, division chair of technology/electronics engineering instructor, at 217-234-5341 or mbeavers@lakelandcollege.edu. To enroll in the courses, visit lakelandcollege.edu and select the “Enroll Now” button.