See What’s Possible in Packaging & Processing @ PACK EXPO International
See packaging & processing solutions from 2,600 exhibitors and gain insights from 150+ free educational sessions at PACK EXPO International.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE

Create a free Packaging World account to continue reading

Kelby Thayer Promoted to Manager of Operations for Distribution Testing for Smithers

Thayer will be responsible for overseeing client testing programs to ensure all expectations are being met and constantly reviewing capacity and capability needs for additions to the laboratory.

Kelby Thayer

This content was written and submitted by the supplier. It has only been modified to comply with this publication’s space and style.

He will manage safety and quality programs and support a team of engineers and technicians at the Smithers distribution testing laboratory in Lansing, Mich.

“Kelby has embodied the Smithers promise of accurate data and excellent service since he first joined our team in 2011,” said Michael Kuebler, Technical Director, Distribution Testing, Smithers. “He has a strong track record of identifying testing needs within a certain industry and developing new test offerings to fill the gap. With his talent for problem solving and his passion for quality, he will be a great asset to our valued clients in this new role.”

Thayer joined Smithers as a project engineer and later moved into the role of senior engineer and quality coordinator, ensuring compliance with ISO 17025:2017 standards. He’s led a variety of critical  transit testing projects over the years highlighted recently  by several validation projects for  COVID-19 vaccine packaging. Prior to joining the team at Smithers, Thayer spent 13 years working at Michigan State University, at the Composite Materials and Structures Center and the School of Packaging.

Thayer has a Bachelor of Science in plastics engineering from Ferris State University. He is an active member of ISTA and ASTM and is an ASTM D10 Executive Committee Officer.

Fill out the form below to request more information about Kelby Thayer Promoted to Manager of Operations for Distribution Testing for Smithers
Is your packaging line built for connected packaging?
RFID, QR codes, and 2D barcodes are reshaping CPG operations. See how leading brands are adapting.
Read More
Is your packaging line built for connected packaging?
Co-packers: the competitive gap is widening
Brands want more than low bids. See what automation, services, and sustainability mean for CM/CPs in 2026.
Read More
Co-packers: the competitive gap is widening