The path from aerospace engineering to the world of packaging machinery is not a typical one. Yet, for Cody Halminiak, mechanical design engineer at Morrison Container Handling Solutions, this unexpected journey has become a testament to the power of adaptability and perseverance. The story begins in 2021 when a senior at Arizona State University found his plans disrupted by the global pandemic. With a co-op program at an airline company canceled, he returned to Illinois and joined Morrison as an intern with a friend, a decision that would set the stage for a promising career.
Halminiak led the design of the Twist Blocks addition to Morrison CHS’s inverting product line. As he moved from engineer to product manager, he worked with other departments to improve part stocking, reduce costs, and foster continuous improvement. His work on Twist Blocks inspired Cody to integrate the technology into air rinsing systems to cut costs while improving flexibility versus traditional stainless-steel twists. Cody has helped the engineering team shift to a more standardized approach, improving the bottom line, particularly for safety-related products like perimeter guards.
Initially, the transition was anything but smooth. The complexities of design concepts, machining principles, and process flows presented significant challenges. However, rather than being deterred, he embraced the opportunity to learn. Late nights and countless conversations with shop personnel became the norm, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas on machining and engineering practices could flourish. This dedication not only bridged his knowledge gap but also paved the way for him to become a leader within the team.
One of the most captivating aspects of his role is his ability to oversee projects from inception to completion. This comprehensive view allows him to identify how each step impacts the next, offering insights into potential improvements. This holistic understanding fuels his passion for research and development, particularly in prototype projects. These initiatives provide a platform for learning and innovation, revealing new materials, design approaches, and machining techniques.
Looking ahead, he remains committed to his core learning and teaching values. With Morrison supporting his journey, he is poised to continue contributing to the company's success while nurturing his own professional growth. As he navigates this path, he remains optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead, driven by a desire to help others and enhance operational efficiency.
His advice to fellow emerging leaders reflects his journey: remain open-minded, commit to continuous learning, and exercise patience.
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
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