Unlocking the Art of Systemic Molding: The Journey of Ron Barr

In the world of injection molding, experience, expertise, and a passion for sharing knowledge can transform careers and shape the future of the industry. Ron Barr, a seasoned Principal Process Engineer at West, is a testament to this philosophy. With a remarkable journey that began back in 1991 when he joined the workforce at the age of 19, Ron's story is an inspiration to aspiring professionals in the field.

Ron's path at West was a remarkable one, taking him from the shop floor to a position of significant influence within the organization. He started his journey as an operator, where he honed his skills and gained invaluable hands-on experience. Over time, he moved on to become a material handler and then a Shift Technician, building a solid foundation in the intricacies of injection molding.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Ron embarked on an apprenticeship for process engineering, an opportunity that marked a turning point in his career. This journey of self-improvement led him to become a Process Engineer. During this period, he seized every chance to enhance his knowledge, attending nearly every class offered to him. This commitment to learning set the stage for a fruitful and dynamic career.

Throughout his career at West, Ron wore many hats, serving in various production roles, including Engineering Manager and even stepping in as Operations Manager for the Scottsdale facility for a summer. His diverse experiences helped him gain a deep understanding of the injection molding process from multiple angles.

One of the pivotal moments in Ron's career was when he transitioned into a trainer role in 2007. His dedication and commitment to excellence paid off when he and his team won the RJG Training Excellence Award in 2013. In 2017, Ron was also honored with the prestigious William West Award, a testament to his significant contributions to the field.

For Ron, training is not just a profession; it's a calling. He understands the value of giving back and providing opportunities for others to learn, just as he was given a chance to learn and grow in his early years. Ron's passion for sharing knowledge and nurturing the next generation of molding professionals is truly inspiring.

In his current role as a Principal Process Engineer, Ron continues to push the boundaries of his expertise and strives to make a lasting impact on the industry. One of the ways he does this is by teaching the RJG Fundamentals of Systematic Molding, a 4-day class that has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many aspiring molding professionals.

The "Fundamentals of Systematic Molding" is an intensive course that provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of injection molding. It's designed for individuals who aim to develop a systematic approach to molding processes within their organizations. Students who complete this course gain a profound understanding of various facets of molding, equipping them to develop machine-independent processes, make data-driven improvements, and troubleshoot issues using a scientific and systematic approach.

This class delves into a wide range of topics, including mold and part design considerations, the four plastic variables of injection molding, the economics of injection molding, and the molding system. It also explores the intricacies of process control, instrumentation strategies, and cavity pressure control.

Importantly, this course isn't just for process engineers; it caters to everyone from entry-level operators to VPs seeking to deepen their understanding of the plastics process. The knowledge imparted in this class is versatile, empowering attendees to make informed decisions that result in lasting solutions, rather than temporary "band-aid" fixes.

Ron Barr's journey from an operator to a Principal Process Engineer and trainer is a testament to the potential for growth and development within the molding industry. His commitment to sharing knowledge and nurturing the next generation ensures that his legacy lives on through the professionals he inspires. The "Fundamentals of Systematic Molding" is one of the ways he continues to shape the future of injection molding, one student at a time.