What's Happening Around SPE

Innovations in Polyolefins Conference 2026 Call for Papers

The SPE Southern Europe Regional Interest Group invites researchers, industry leaders, and innovators across the polyolefins value chain to submit abstracts for presentation at the Innovations in Polyolefins Conference, taking place 8-9 October 2026 in Tarragona, Spain. Submissions should include new research, applied technologies, case studies, and strategic insights that move polyolefins toward a more sustainable future. Submissions from experts around the world are strongly encouraged. Deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026. Click here to submit your abstract. 

SPE Member and Supporter Uttandaraman Sundararaj Passes Away

Uttandaraman (UT, Kumar) Sundararaj, distinguished Professor and Schulich Industry Research Chair in Polymer Multiphase Nanomaterials at the University of Calgary and long-time SPE supporter passed away on the morning of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada at the age of 57. Read more. 

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  Chapter News

Czuba Receives Glenn Beall Award from SPE Medical Plastics Division

Len Czuba recently became the first recipient of the Glenn Beall Founders Award from the Society of Plastics Engineers’ Medical Plastics Division. Read more.

SPE Mold Technologies Division Names 2026 Class of Industry Leaders

Class of Industry Leaders were named during PT-XPO 2026. The awards are presented annually by the division to individuals that exhibit leadership in their respective craft. Awards included Mold Designer of the Year, Mold Maker of the Year, Mold Repair-Technician of the Year and Apprentice of the Year. Read more.

FOAMS® 2026 Brings Together Industry Professionals

Join leading researchers, engineers, and industry professionals at FOAMS® 2026, the premier international conference dedicated to advances in foaming technologies. Taking place June 22-25 in Novi, MI, and hosted by SPE’s Thermoplastic Materials & Foams Division and co-located with Foam Expo North America, this event brings together global expertise to explore the latest innovations shaping the future of foam applications. More info here.

  SPE Foundation

Collaboration with 3DSHQ to Expand SPE Foundation’s 3D Printing Education Program

SPE has announced a new collaboration with 3D Supply Headquarters (3DSHQ) to expand the SPE Foundation’s 3D Printer Grant Program for educational institutions nationwide. Read more.

PlastiVan® Ignites Student Curiosity in Plastics Science and Engineering

Through lively demonstrations and hands-on activities, the PlastiVan® Program is designed to excite students about opportunities in science and engineering within the plastics industry. Read more. 

SPE News Story Ideas?

Know a member who is doing outstanding things in plastics or in SPE? Are you part of a chapter that is making an impact or a difference in the industry? Let us know if you have any story ideas for SPE News! Feel free to contact Chris Barry at cbarry@4spe.org. 

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