PMMI Foundation workforce investment tops $1M in 2025
The PMMI Foundation invested $1.2 million in workforce development programs in 2025. Learn where the money went.
In 2025, the PMMI Foundation, the charitable arm of PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, invested $1.2 million in programs designed to bolster education and training in packaging, processing, automation and manufacturing careers.
These 70-plus workforce development programs benefited more than 17,000 students in North America through the PMMI U Skills Fund for the Future Workforce, including $600,000 in matching funds, according to a news release.
Schneider Electric supported that impact as the PMMI Foundation’s Visionary Benefactor, according to the release.
“Every one of these initiatives is about opening doors, helping students discover the career paths available in packaging and processing, and giving them real-world access to our industry,” Kate Torrence, PMMI workforce development director, said in the release. “We’re proud of the momentum we’ve built and deeply grateful to the partners and sponsors who make this work possible.”
The PMMI Foundation awarded more than $168,000 in academic scholarships in 2025.
“These students represent the heart of the future for packaging and processing,” PMMI president and CEO Jim Pittas said. “Their dedication, curiosity and drive will help our industry thrive for years to come. We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors and partners whose support makes these opportunities possible.”
The foundation also invested in 23 workforce development summer camps, reaching more than 500 students in North America and providing $50,000 to support manufacturing exploration.
At the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held in June, the foundation engaged with more than 19,000 students from across the country. The organization also supported robotic and technology competitions designed to connect STEM education to packaging and processing careers.
“The progress we’ve made this year reflects the strength of our partners and the urgency of our mission,” Pittas said. “This work is about much more than programs — it’s about the future of our industry.”