Polypack's Nicolas Cerf Discusses Workforce Development and AI at the Pinellas Manufacturing Summit
Polypack's Nicolas Cerf joined fellow manufacturing leaders at the 5th Annual Pinellas Manufacturing Summit on October 28, 2026, participating in the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) Manufacturing Leadership Panel.
The event brought together local manufacturers, educators and business leaders to discuss the future of manufacturing in Pinellas County, including workforce development, industry partnerships and emerging technologies.
During the panel, Nicholas Cerf shared how Polypack is investing in the next generation of skilled workers while incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into everyday operations to improve efficiency.
Introducing Students to Careers in Manufacturing
One of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers is attracting young people to careers in the industry. Nicolas emphasized the importance of building relationships with local schools and giving students opportunities to see modern manufacturing firsthand.
At Polypack's Pinellas Park facility, high school students are invited to tour the manufacturing floor and learn about the different careers available in the industry. These visits introduce students to engineering, robotics, machining, automation and other technical fields they may not have previously considered.
By seeing the equipment, meeting employees and understanding how machines are designed and built, students gain a clearer picture of what a career in manufacturing can look like.
Polypack also supports local high school robotics programs through sponsorships, helping students develop hands-on experience in engineering, programming and problem-solving.
An important part of these efforts is the PMMI U Skills Fund for the Future Workforce, which provides matching contributions for qualifying educational initiatives. Through this program, manufacturers can increase the impact of their investments in local schools, robotics teams and technical education.
These partnerships benefit both students and manufacturers by building awareness of career opportunities and helping develop the skilled workforce needed for the future.
Strengthening Local Workforce Development Partnerships
Beyond high school outreach, Polypack works with Manatee Technical College to support workforce development and technical training.
Partnerships between manufacturers and educational institutions help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the practical skills required in today's manufacturing environments.
As automation and advanced machinery continue to evolve, manufacturers need employees with strong technical skills and the ability to adapt to new technologies.
By working directly with local educational programs, companies like Polypack can help students prepare for real-world manufacturing careers while strengthening the region's talent pipeline.
How AI Is Changing the Way Polypack Works
Another key topic of the panel was the growing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing.
Nicolas Cerf discussed how AI is becoming part of everyday workflows across Polypack, with departments finding new ways to use the technology to improve productivity, streamline processes and work more efficiently.
From administrative tasks to technical applications, employees are exploring how AI can help them accomplish more in less time.
He also discussed vibe coding, an emerging approach to software development that uses AI to help create code and develop tools through natural-language instructions. This technology is making it easier for employees to explore solutions and develop applications without relying entirely on traditional programming methods.
Importantly, Nicolas emphasized that AI has not replaced jobs at Polypack. Instead, the company is using the technology to support employees, improve existing processes and give teams additional tools to perform their work more effectively.
However, adopting AI also requires clear guidelines.
Nicolas stressed the importance of establishing boundaries and policies to ensure AI is used responsibly, particularly when it comes to protecting company information, maintaining accuracy and ensuring appropriate human oversight.
For manufacturers, the goal is to take advantage of AI's capabilities while maintaining the expertise, judgment and accountability of their employees.
Investing in the Future of American Manufacturing
The conversations at the Pinellas Manufacturing Summit highlighted two important priorities for the industry: developing skilled workers and adapting to rapidly changing technology.
At Polypack, these priorities go hand in hand.
Supporting robotics teams, welcoming students into the facility and collaborating with technical schools help introduce the next generation to manufacturing careers. At the same time, integrating AI into daily operations gives today's workforce new opportunities to improve productivity and develop valuable skills.
As a family-owned American manufacturer with more than 65 years of experience, Polypack recognizes that the future of manufacturing depends on both its people and its willingness to innovate.
Through continued investment in education, workforce development and emerging technologies, Polypack is helping strengthen manufacturing in Pinellas County and beyond.
Learn more about Polypack's American-made shrink wrapping and end-of-line packaging equipment at www.polypack.com.
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