It’s 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, Feb 23rd in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the business development team at PPC member Southern Champion Tray (SCT) is ready to discuss the next generation of paper packaging innovation. The meeting is facilitated by SCT’s Innovation Strategist, Neha Mardi, whose typical workday involves designing cutting-edge innovation strategies to drive SCT’s folding carton product development and brand promotion.
Neha is also an integral part of PPC’s Design & Innovation Community, helping spearhead efforts to establish our peer-to-peer network where designers at every stage of their careers are encouraged to connect, learn, and explore design and innovation within our industry.
We recently connected with Neha to discuss the evolution of her career, how to get started in the folding carton and paperboard packaging industry, and why others should get involved with PPC.
PPC: What inspired you to work in design?
NM: I’ve always thought about design thinking as a means of creative destruction, driving that next set of disruption in the generally accepted way of living, constantly questioning the mundane. One of my cherished authors Erik Stolterman defines design as “an intentional change in an unpredictable world.” In a dynamically evolving world, design and innovation are the very pillars that drive the evolution in the way society functions. Working as a designer gives me the ability to be a part of that disruption, with the superpower to drive positive, uplifting, inclusive, and sustainable change in society. That’s what inspired me and what continues to do so every day.
PPC: Why would you encourage someone to work in design for the folding carton industry?
NM: As a designer, you have several creative ideas and concepts that you want to bring to life. I think the packaging world is such a great industry to do that. You might think that because we design on paper, there’s only so much you can do, but you will be completely shocked. It’s such a versatile material to work with. If you like to see your ideas go from concept to life fast and still be impactful, this is a great playground for you to play in.
PPC: What advice would you give to those seeking to work in design for the folding carton industry?
NM: If you aspire to work within an innovative sector of the packaging industry, here are some tips to help you achieve your goals:
- Develop a strong foundation: Start by developing a strong foundation in the fundamentals of the innovation process and packaging design. This will help you understand the industry’s challenges and opportunities and enable you to develop innovative solutions.
- Stay up to date: Keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies in the packaging industry by reading industry publications, attending conferences and trade shows, and following thought leaders on social media.
- Build a network: Build a network of contacts within the packaging industry, including other professionals, suppliers, and customers. This will help you stay informed about industry developments and may also provide opportunities for collaboration or employment.
- Be curious and creative: Cultivate a spirit of curiosity and creativity while being open to new ideas and approaches. This will help you to identify innovative solutions to packaging challenges and differentiate yourself from others in the industry.
- Embrace sustainability: Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important aspect of the packaging industry, and packaging professionals who are knowledgeable and passionate about sustainability will be well-positioned for success. Make sure to educate yourself about sustainable packaging options and be willing to advocate for sustainable practices within your organization and the broader industry.
- Develop a diverse skillset: Packaging professionals with a diverse skill set, including expertise in areas such as marketing, design, and supply chain management, will be more valuable to their organizations and better able to develop innovative solutions. Consider taking courses or pursuing additional education to develop new skills and broaden your knowledge base.
PPC: What is your favorite part of being a PPC member?
NM: My favorite part is the people. It’s a big family that is very passionate about folding cartons. Like a family, they support and uplift each other. I’m part of the Women’s Leadership Council, and I think it’s one of the rare communities that truly uplifts women to rise in the industry. Being part of PPC also allows me to stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the field. With various educational and training programs, PPC helps me continuously develop my skills and knowledge, all with a supportive network by my side.
PPC: Why should packaging professionals get involved with PPC?
NM: If you want to impact the folding carton and paperboard packaging world, PPC is an essential support system. PPC is an inclusive platform that brings together the most innovative minds in paper packaging space, driving PPC is filled with great people, and they provide a wealth of industry knowledge, networking opportunities, and professional development resources, all while advocating for the advancement of our industry. I would encourage people to join to receive support and grow their skills.
Learn more about how PPC can help grow your business, advance our industry, and provide enriching networking opportunities here.