The Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) is pleased to announce the launch of PlastChicks™ 101, a groundbreaking educational initiative designed to provide comprehensive lessons focused on plastics. The goal of the series is to educate people on all the major plastics and plastics processes, creating an informed and effective generation of professionals, empowering them with the knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-evolving industry.
PlastChicks 101, hosted by Lynzie Nebel, Upstream Quote Engineer for Cytiva, and Mercedes Landázuri, Market Insight Manager at Ampacet, is an accessible and engaging series of 10-20 minute, pre-recorded, lessons that cover materials and processes.
“Unlike some of the other educational videos you can find on plastics processes, these lessons incorporate fun, engaging formats and mnemonic devices to help participants retain critical information effectively,” said Landázuri. “The series is ideal for newcomers to the plastics industry, experienced professionals seeking to fill knowledge gaps, and individuals working in plastics-adjacent industries who want to improve their understanding of plastics to enhance collaboration and communication.”
Participants will develop a better understanding of plastics, enabling them to improve cross-functional communications within their organizations as well as with external stakeholders such as vendors and customers. By offering practical, real-world knowledge in an engaging format, PlastChicks 101 enhances professional effectiveness across the plastics industry.
Nebel also emphasized that PlastChicks 101 provides organizations with the opportunity to become featured companies, positioning themselves as leaders in the plastics industry. Featured company support also goes toward the PlastChicks scholarship fund.
“Featured companies can showcase their equipment and products within the lessons, increasing visibility among current and future customers,” said Nebel. “They also have the chance to participate in recorded Q&A sessions on their area of expertise, highlighting their knowledge and authority in the field. By supporting this initiative, featured companies contribute to the development of a more informed workforce, benefiting both their organizations and the broader plastics industry.”
Transitioning from a childhood passion for pencil drawing, Adam forged a fulfilling career in manufacturing. Starting with an early apprenticeship, he ventured into 3D manufacturing, specializing as a CAD designer for automotive and aerospace.
Then contributing a decade in Metrology, Adam immersed himself in engineering, customer success, business development, and sales. From 2015 to 2020, he played a pivotal role in sales and marketing for EOS, focusing on cutting-edge technologies like Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), Direct Metal Laser Solidification (DMLS), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).
In 2020, Adam launched "All Digital AM," a video series and podcast. Collaborating with SME, he contributed to Additive Manufacturing content strategy for a successful RAPID + TCT 2021. From 2021 to 2023, Adam led content creation for AdditiveManufacturing.com by ASME, driving substantial brand growth and positive collaboration.
Currently, Adam is deeply involved in consulting projects, championing the cause of continuous manufacturing education. As a host of a video podcast, he shares valuable insights from prominent figures in advanced manufacturing, striving to unite and promote the community. Adam's dedication has earned him recognition as an active servant leader and influential figure in the field.
Upstream Quote Engineer, Cytiva; Co-host, PlastChicks Podcast; President-Elect, SPE-Inspiring Plastics
Professionals. Throughout her career, Lynzie has gained experience in the automotive, appliance, medical, pet,
and micro injection molding industries. Lynzie received her Bachelor of Science degree in Plastics Engineering
Technology from Penn State Behrend in 2008. She has been a member of SPE since 2004 and has been involved in her
local section, holding many positions including past President. Lynzie also sits on the Injection Molding
Division and is the former secretary for the SPE Foundation board. In 2015, Lynzie was part of Plastics News'
inaugural class of "Women Breaking the Mold," and was named one of the group's "Rising Stars" in 2018. She is
also on the Industrial Advisory Board for Penn State's Plastics Department.
Mercedes Landázuri leads trend insight & innovation for Ampacet, a global manufacturer of color and
additive masterbatch. Additionally, she hosts trend forecasting workshops for Color Marketing Group, the premier
global color forecasting association, and was elected to their board of directors in 2024. In her spare time,
she has served as a guest lecturer for College for Creative Studies, Western Michigan University, and Advanced
Design’s virtual courses. She is an active volunteer for SPE, having held the highest leadership positions
within the Color and Appearance Division, the Recycling Division, and the NextGen Advisory Board. Landázuri
co-founded and co-hosts the award-winning PlastChicks podcast with Lynzie Nebel. Landázuri was named a
Plastics News Rising Star in 2017 and a Woman Breaking the Mold in 2024.
