Molding the Workforce: Shaping a Stronger Industry Together
At Chemtech Plastics, we understand the importance of individuals and the role each and every part , or person, works together to accomplish remarkable feats.
Chemtech values the contributions of each of our employees. Together, we revolutionize automotive and medical industries with invaluable parts, ultimately contributing to life-saving advancements. Behind this success lies a powerful force – women in manufacturing. In this blog, we will explore how women’s innate empathy, remarkable capacity for effective communication, along with their attention to detail are changing the game in manufacturing at Chemtech Plastics.
The Evolution of Women in Manufacturing
For decades, women faced numerous challenges entering the manufacturing sector, and as a result the manufacturing sector has faced challenges due to the lack of women’s diverse perspectives. Today, women are increasingly proving their mettle and making significant strides in reshaping the industry.
Breaking Stereotypes in Plastic Injection Molding
Women in manufacturing, especially at Chemtech Plastics, are consistently defying stereotypes. Their passion for engineering and technology, combined with empathy and attention to detail, have been game-changers. Their diverse perspectives have brought innovation and fresh insights to streamline manufacturing processes.
Game-Changing Contributions
Women’s unique skill set and approach to problem-solving have led to transformative contributions at Chemtech Plastics. Their emphasis on attention to detail has resulted in parts that exceed industry standards. Their empathy-driven designs have led to components that prioritize safety, saving lives on the roads.
Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace Culture
Chemtech Plastics fosters an inclusive work environment that embraces and celebrates diversity. Mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and a commitment to gender equality have empowered women to thrive in their roles. This inclusive culture has resulted in an atmosphere where all employees feel valued, appreciated, and heard.
Chemtech Plastics is actively involved in inspiring the next generation of women in manufacturing. We encourage young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, and engineering fields. As Chemtech continues to grow we hope to hire many more passionate men and women to join our diverse team.
Let’s Mold the Future Together.
The contributions of women in manufacturing, particularly at Chemtech Plastics, are invaluable. Their empathy and attention to detail are changing the face of the automotive industry, ensuring that every part produced prioritizes safety and quality. As the company continues to lead in innovation, it is clear that empowering women in manufacturing yields positive results that benefit not only the plastic injection molding industry but also automotive and medical industries we service. By fostering an inclusive environment and inspiring the next generation, Chemtech Plastics paves the way for a future where women’s transformative role in automotive manufacturing is universally celebrated and recognized.
Interested in joining the team?
Apply today: https://www.chemtechplastics.com/careers/
- Published in Uncategorized
The Future of Electric Vehicles in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry is going through a major shift—bringing with it new challenges, such as increased regulation, changing consumer preferences, and the need to reduce emissions. Currently, the most significant trend is the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), which are gaining in popularity due to their numerous benefits.
EVs are more environmentally friendly, have lower operating costs, and provide a smoother and quieter ride. Recent years have shown a significant increase in the production and sales of EVs, with major automakers investing heavily in their development and production and governments pushing for the adoption of EVs through various incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and subsidies.
While electric vehicles still face several challenges, their rising popularity is likely to accelerate in the coming years, as automakers continue to invest in their development and governments implement policies to encourage their adoption. Chemtech Plastics’ extensive history in the automotive industry gives them a unique perspective on the future of electric vehicles.
Benefits of electric vehicles
Electric vehicles offer several advantages over traditional gasoline-powered cars, including lower emissions, reduced operating costs, better performance, and an improved driving experience.
- Lower emissions: Electric vehicles produce zero emissions at the tailpipe. This means they don’t emit harmful pollutants into the air, thus reducing air pollution and helping to combat climate change.
- Reduced operating costs: EVs are generally cheaper to operate and maintain than gasoline-powered cars. They have fewer moving parts, which reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and expensive repairs. The cost of electricity used to power an EV is typically much lower than the cost of gasoline, and EV owners can take advantage of government incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, to further reduce costs.
- Better performance: Electric vehicles have instant torque, which means they can accelerate quickly and smoothly. This is especially beneficial in urban areas where stop-and-go traffic is common. EVs also have a lower center of gravity, which can improve handling and stability.
- Less noise pollution: Across the board, EVs are generally quieter and smoother. There is no noise with an EV engine, and the lack of vibration can make the driving experience more comfortable.
As battery technology continues to improve, EVs are becoming more practical and affordable, making them an attractive option for consumers looking for a cleaner and more cost-effective mode of transportation. The latest advancements in the industry include increased battery ranges, faster charging times, exploration of wireless charging, battery swapping programs, and investments in charging infrastructure.
What’s in store for electric vehicles?
The potential for continued growth in the electric vehicle market is significant, with experts predicting that adoption and production will only continue to increase. Contributing to this growth are government policies, decreasing costs, and investments by major automakers.
Many countries have already set ambitious targets for the adoption of electric vehicles. Some have even proposed bans on the sale of new gasoline-powered cars in the coming years. New government policies are aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.
The cost of EVs and batteries is also decreasing, as technology continues to improve and economies of scale kick in. Electric vehicle prices are expected to become increasingly competitive with traditional gas-powered cars. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that the number of EVs on the road will grow from 10 million in 2020 to 145 million by 2030.
When coupled with low maintenance costs and increased government incentives, electric vehicles become increasingly desirable to consumers in the market for a new car. For consumers, tax credits and rebates make EVs more affordable. Meanwhile, automakers are incentivized to prioritize EV production and to devote more time to developing and producing more sustainable, fuel-efficient vehicles and alternative fuel options.
What does this mean for automakers?
Transitioning to an EV-dominated market is full of potential benefits for a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system. However, this transition poses significant challenges for automakers, such as:
- Battery technology: Battery technology is critical for EVs, and automakers need to invest heavily in research and development to develop batteries that can provide long-range, fast charging, and high performance.
- Infrastructure: Widespread adoption of EVs will require a significant investment in charging infrastructure. Automakers will need to work with governments and other stakeholders to build a network of charging stations that can support the growth of EVs.
- Supply chain: Automakers need to establish new relationships with suppliers of battery components, electric motors, and other EV-specific parts.
- Workforce: Moving to EVs will require automakers to train and retrain their workforce to handle the new technology, including engineers, technicians, and assembly line workers.
- Consumer acceptance: Consumer acceptance is critical to the success of electric vehicles. Automakers need to invest in marketing and education to help consumers understand the benefits of EVs and overcome any concerns they may have.
- Regulatory environment: Automakers need to work with governments to develop policies that support the growth of EVs, such as tax incentives, subsidies, and emissions regulations.
- Legacy operations: Many automakers still have legacy operations focused on traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The transition to an EV-dominated market will require significant investments to retool and reconfigure these operations to produce EVs instead.
Impact on the automotive industry
Turning toward electric vehicles has the potential to create both job losses and job opportunities in a variety of industries. While the traditional automotive industry may face some challenges, the emergence of new industries and jobs related to EVs could lead to significant growth and innovation, potentially leading to new business models and opportunities.
New industries and jobs are already emerging, such as the skilled workforce needed for the production of lithium-ion batteries used in electrical vehicles. Further jobs will be created for the installation and maintenance of charging stations and the development of software and technologies to optimize charging networks.
As the demand for gasoline decreases, oil and gas companies may need to adjust their business models to remain profitable. Some examples of alternative sources of revenue include renewable energy production and the development of new technologies for electric vehicles or charging infrastructure.
The electric industry will certainly benefit from some additional help. As more EVs hit the road, there will be an increased demand for electricity, especially during peak charging times. The strain on the existing grid infrastructure will require upgrades to support the growing demand, but it will also create an opportunity to develop and offer new products and services.
Importance of automotive industry professionals
Chemtech Plastics specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality plastic components for various industries, including automotive. Our expertise in automotive plastics has made us a valuable partner to automotive manufacturers, providing innovative solutions that improve efficiency and performance for our clients.
The Chemtech team works closely with automotive manufacturers to design and manufacture components that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. We use advanced technologies and techniques to create precision, plastic injection-molded parts that are durable, lightweight, and able to withstand harsh environmental conditions. The parts we manufacture are used in various automotive applications, including interior and exterior trim, lighting systems, engine components, and more.
Ready to see what Chemtech can do? Let’s start a project together. Request your free quote today.
- Published in Automotive
Meet John Linder
Making up the pillars of Chemtech Plastics’ core leadership team are a few key individuals who have played an instrumental part in the company’s continued success. You’ve already met Founder and CEO Ragnar Korthase. Now, it’s time to meet John Linder, Director of Sales and Marketing—and the visionary behind the parts Chemtech produces.
Over 40 years of experience
Linder began as a journeyman moldmaker in the plastic injection molding field. As his knowledge and skills grew, so did his career. In 1979, Linder became a shop owner at just 25 years old, but in 1985 was when he really “got off the bench,” marking his move into management. Around this time, Linder switched from toolmaking to injection molding at a company that performed both functions (much like Chemtech).
Until 2016, his career focus was primarily technical, reflected in his positions. Linder was Director of Engineering at Chemtech from 2000-2013. Naturally gifted in technical pursuits, he found himself drawn to this side of the industry.
“Everything made sense. I had the skills and learned very quickly, which made it very enjoyable,” said Linder. “Experiencing both toolmaking and moldmaking has been rewarding, challenging, and interesting.”
From technical to front-end
For many years, Lindner worked within this highly specialized niche in the injection molding industry, making highly complex automotive electrical connectors, junctions, and relay boxes. “I’ve always been interested in and focused on technically demanding parts and products,” said Linder. “At Chemtech, that’s our niche. We seek technically challenging projects other companies can’t or won’t do.”
Moving to Director of Sales and Marketing was a natural transition for him. The transition supports Linder’s remarkable ability to brainstorm and envision the perfect way to craft each new part that crosses his desk. Getting involved with the upfront initial scope planning is crucial in this role.
As he explains, clients approach Chemtech for plastic solutions. Mold modeling for client requests is a highly technical process, with many moving parts and client involvement. We create a mold to produce applicable plastic solutions, but there’s a significant amount of front-end work in creating a successful product launch.
Specializing in saving lives
Within the plastic injection molding field, Chemtech makes parts for several different industries, including automotive, medical, and electromechanical components. Throughout his career, Linder’s specialties have been automotive and medical components. Because of their human impact, he finds it most rewarding to work on medical components, such as those used in modern surgical devices.
Shifting gears
As Director of Sales, Linder felt the shift when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Chemtech had to pivot from good old-fashioned knocking on doors as a relationship-building model—what was previously their most successful approach was no longer an option. “Trying to relearn something that you’ve done for decades is a change and a challenge,” he said. “You have to remain fluid and willing to evolve.”
“Chemtech does it right.”
Where others have failed to step to the plate, Chemtech has been there. “Over the years, as other companies lost business, we grew,” said Linder. “People came to us because they know we do it right. They knew we could help them make their products when others couldn’t.”
Another thing Linder appreciates about Chemtech is the collective management style of Ragnar and President Derek Popp. There’s no hand-holding, he said, because “when you have a position here, you have the authority and responsibility not to let the team down.” Linder said, “We strive to attract talented people that help create a culture and environment that is dynamic yet enjoyable to work within.”
To our clients, what puts Chemtech a step above the rest is that every part we make has a story. Most injection molders go into their sample case, and a part is just a part with little more to it than a name. In contrast, “I can get you excited by 20 parts,” said Linder. “With each one, you’ll go, ‘Wow!’ when you realize everything that goes into each component. Not everyone can do that.”
Ready to start a new project? Interested in a career at Chemtech? We want to hear from you.
- Published in Company News
Precision in Medical Plastic Injection Molding
To protect and support the lives of patients and the roles of medical staff worldwide, medical and surgical components must be of the highest quality. One of Chemtech Plastics’ top specialties is crafting medical device components with our leading-edge medical plastic injection molder capabilities. With an emphasis on experience, quality control, and transparency, we are the medical plastic injection molding to turn to when you need precision components.
Our Technology
Amid our 135,000-square-foot facilities, Chemtech has 54 plastic injection molding machines of varying capacities and capabilities. These include the TOYO Si-6 Series, ARBURG Allrounder 520 S, and Sodick GL 150, to name but a few. Narrowing in on Sodick’s technology, these machines are highly accurate, reliable, and stable—perfect for producing and reproducing tight-tolerance components for medical equipment.
Our Range
We are well versed in a variety of premium plastic injection molding materials. PEI, or polyetherimide (Ultem®), is an excellent example of a stiff, durable plastic most often utilized for medical or scientific purposes, such as medical instrument parts. Chemtech understands the importance of using high-performance engineering-grade resins to obtain quality results. This goes hand-in-hand with having a team with expert-level skills to correctly process these unique, high-temperature plastics and specific custom molding machines.
Our Team
Precision is not only tight tolerances. Precision is also knowledge, communication, and relationships. We maintain partnerships with several medical device manufacturers specializing in surgical and diagnostic applications, thanks to our experience in medical manufacturing.
Do you have a project in mind? Request a quote from Chemtech Plastics today.
- Published in Medical
Meet The Founder: Ragnar Korthase
Chemtech Plastics, Inc., began with one man with a plan—Ragnar Korthase. As an immigrant who moved to the U.S. at the ripe age of 11, it’s unlikely young Korthase guessed at the time he’d be starting his own company many years down the road.
In 1982, Chemtech Plastics came to be. From there, Korthase worked long and hard to grow the plastic injection molding company into what it is today. Follow along as we share with you the story of Korthase and Chemtech.
The very beginning
Thanks to his German father’s card nights, Korthase met a family friend who was a toolmaker, a profession that had him enthralled. “I latched onto him, and said ‘I want to get into the business.’” The toolmaker had a partner at a molding company, which is where Korthase buckled down after completing high school.
After “my uncle called, Uncle Sam” and four years in the U.S. Air Force, Korthase got back into the moldmaking business—setting a personal goal to start his own business by the age of 30.
From early on
And that’s exactly what he did, first in an eight-year partnership and then on his own. If you can believe it, the company opened its doors with a single molding machine that was “half-broken,” as Korthase recalls, “and all I did was fix things.”
That was one way to quickly learn that machine maintenance was not the business he wanted to start. “A tough, tough, start,” as he recalled.
It was that moment when Korthase realized brand new molding equipment was the only way to go to fulfill his dream. With the right machinery, “it’s amazing how easy things become. We make good parts with good equipment.”
Present-day
Teaming up early on with Derek Popp (current president of Chemtech) was exactly what the company needed. Together, the duo makes an unstoppable team—Korthase with the toolmaking experience and Popp with the moldmaking expertise. Credit where credit is due, Korthase also touts Popp’s technical mind and excellent customer service skills.
While great leadership, quality machinery, and expert employees are crucial to Chemtech’s success, so are creating and maintaining meaningful connections with their customer base. “We have long-term relationships with a lot of our customers,” he said. “They rarely go elsewhere, because we are a quality house—always have been, always will be—and we make sure our customers are very happy.”
Looking forward
Reflecting on Chemtech’s earliest days, “We all have goals, of course, but I really didn’t know to what extent the company would go,” he said. “I was always just happy to have another customer get another machine.” These humble aspirations are a great part of why people love Chemtech and the work we produce—and how we’ve become a leader in the precision injection molding industry for over 30 years.
All Korthase wants is to see his company continue to grow year after year. “We still have room to grow,” he said. “Maybe we get one customer one year and then three the next.” What matters is that “we’ve got a great group of people” and “we strive to do our best [because that’s how] we succeed.”
Ready to start a new project? Interested in a career at Chemtech? We want to hear from you.
- Published in Company News
Welcome to Chemtech Plastics
It’s our pleasure to newly introduce you to Chemtech Plastics, Inc. We’ve been an industry leader in precision injection molding for over three decades—and we wanted our website to reflect that. We’ve done a complete overhaul of our online presence, and we can’t wait to share that with you. Refresh your browser, and join us as we refresh your memory about why manufacturers, companies, and technology creators around the world choose Chemtech Plastics for all of their precision molding needs.
Who we are
Dating back to 1982, Chemtech has a long-standing history in the moldmaking industry. CEO Ragnar Korthase started the company as its sole employee, working on used machines. Through his dedication, Korthase grew the company to become the great success that it is today, with the help of strong leadership like that of President Derek Popp.
Chemtech specializes in full-service, custom, precision injection molding that spans multiple industries, including automotive, medical, industrial, and optic lighting. Our core competencies include straight molding, insert, and overmolding, as well as multi-shot (2K and 3K) expertise.
We incorporate Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles into everything we do. This ensures the most efficient and cost-effective production process for every project our clients propose. Chemtech excels in project management and quality assurance, as well, which has allowed us to create a name for ourselves that is synonymous with reliability.
What you can expect from Chemtech
Our new website gave us an opportunity to bestow upon you a wealth of clear and transparent information about who we are, what we do, and how we can make your projects come to life. Throughout the site, you’ll find each of our areas of expertise broken down into digestible segments—giving you the insight you need in an easy-to-read format.
Learn about our capabilities, from precision molding and toolmaking to engineering and automation. Take a deep dive into the work we’ve done in the industries we specialize in and what types of components we’ve made. Find out more about our company promise to our clients. With Chemtech, you’re in good hands.
Have a new project in mind? Let’s get started! Request a quote today.
- Published in Company News
