Ten young professionals honored as the next generation of leaders driving innovation, excellence, and advancement in the packaging and processing industry.

HERNDON, Va.; Nov 11, 2025 - PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, proudly recognized 10 outstanding young professionals with 2025 On the Rise Awards last night during the Chairperson's Dinner at PMMI's Annual Meeting.

Sponsored by the Emerging Leaders Committee, the On the Rise Awards recognize next-generation leaders in the packaging and processing industry who have demonstrated exceptional professional growth, leadership, and dedication to advancing the field. This year's honorees represent a new generation of innovators driving progress, creativity, and collaboration across the industry.

"The On the Rise Awards highlight the next wave of leadership shaping the future of packaging and processing," says Jim Pittas, president & CEO, PMMI. "These young professionals are not only excelling in their roles but are also making meaningful contributions that strengthen our industry and inspire others to grow."

2025 On the Rise Award Winners and Krista DeBrosse, Director, Trade Show Operations, PMMI

2025 On the Rise Award Winners:
• Jakob Cushman, Automation and Controls Specialist, Flex-Line Automation, Inc.
• Crystal Dinh, Applications Engineering Manager, Blentech Corporation
• Conor Driscoll, Northeast Regional Sales Manager - Healthcare, Wipotec
• Matthew Ferreira, IT Team Lead, BellatRx Inc.
• Alex Hinkle, Electrical Field Service Team Leader, BW Packaging (a Barry-Wehmiller company)
• Matthew Olivera, Sales Engineer, Mettler Toledo
• Joey Schmidt, Director of Sales - Eastern USA & Canada, Harpak-ULMA
• Mia Stevens, Marketing Specialist, Morrison Container Handling Solutions
• Bobby Tracy, South/Southeast Regional Manager, Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery
• Brianna Wagner, Product Line Manager, Triangle Package Machinery Co.

"Each awardee exemplifies the talent, passion, and forward-thinking mindset
that will carry our industry into the future," says David Wales, Sr. OEM/Pharma Account Manager and Emerging Leaders Committee Chair. "Recognizing their achievements not only celebrates individual success but also reinforces the importance of developing and supporting the next generation of leaders."
In the coming weeks, PMMI will feature individual stories highlighting each recipient's achievements and career journeys.
For more information about the On the Rise Awards and the PMMI Young Professionals Network, visit pmmi.org/young-professionals/awards.

About PMMI
PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, represents more than 1,100 manufacturers and suppliers of equipment, components, and materials as well as providers of related equipment and services to the packaging and processing industry. We work to advance a variety of industries by connecting consumer goods companies with manufacturing solutions through the world-class PACK EXPO portfolio of trade shows, leading trade media, and a wide range of resources to empower our members. The PACK EXPO trade shows unite the world of packaging and processing to advance the industries they serve: PACK EXPO International, PACK EXPO Las Vegas, PACK EXPO East, PACK EXPO Southeast, EXPO PACK M©xico, and EXPO PACK Guadalajara. PMMI Media Group connects manufacturers to the latest solutions, trends and innovations in packaging and processing year-round through brands including Packaging World, ProFood World, Healthcare Packaging, OEM, Contract Manufacturing and Packaging, and Mundo EXPO PACK. PMMI Business Drivers assist members in pursuing operational excellence through workforce development initiatives, deliver actionable business intelligence on economic, market, and industry trends to support members' growth strategies, and actively connect the supply chain throughout the year.

Learn more at pmmi.org and packexpo.com and pmmimediagroup.com.