AIM Institute and PennWest University Forge Groundbreaking Partnership to Accelerate Careers in Plastics Injection Molding

The American Injection Molding Institute (AIM) and Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest) announce an innovative partnership to develop a concentration in Plastics Injection Molding under the PennWest Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology (AAS-AT) degree.

This collaboration offers students a unique opportunity to fast-track their education and careers in the injection molding industry. The program is scheduled to launch in fall 2025; however, students can begin completing AIM coursework right away.

Through the AIM Institute coursework, students will learn about plastics materials, mold design, injection molding processing, part design, and Autodesk Moldflow simulation with a focus on real-world applications and industry-based outcomes. The PennWest coursework is specifically selected to further the students’ learning with courses that directly prepare students for a variety of jobs within the industry.

The program utilizes a unique model, providing students hands-on training at The AIM Institute's state-of-the-art Injection Molding Lab while attending one of the multiple PennWest University campuses and completing courses either in-person or online.

Through this partnership, AIM graduates can earn up to 25 Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credits, which can be applied toward PennWest’s AAS-AT degree.

“This partnership solves an industry need by providing a focused two-year degree that allows students to gain the knowledge and skills essential for success in this industry.” said David Hoffman, director of AIM Institute. “By merging industry expertise with academic recognition, we are empowering people to advance in their fields while meeting the growing demand for highly skilled talent in plastics manufacturing and design.”

PennWest’s commitment to innovation in education and workforce development shines through this initiative.

“We are thrilled to partner with AIM to provide students with an accelerated path to academic success,” said Dr. James D. Fisher, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at PennWest. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to recognizing real-world skills and enhancing career opportunities for learners.”

PennWest and AIM collaborated to develop this curriculum, keeping the student at the forefront. This partnership merges PennWest's robust academic foundation with AIM's globally recognized education and training, equipping people for success in the injection molding industry.

To learn more about this partnership, visit aim.institute or email Dr. Peter Kuvshinikov at pkuvshinikov@pennwest.edu. For admissions information, email admissions@pennwest.edu.