People Make it Possible: Ben Oswald
When Ben Oswald is at home with his two young kids, he’s not only “Dad” – he’s also the resident diaper expert.
“I’ve actually taken apart diapers to show my wife all the various components,” he said. “Most people don’t realize how much technology goes into making diapers.”
The Senior Process Engineer has spent the last 10 years learning the ins and outs of diaper manufacturing at First Quality’s plant in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. When he joined the company, it was a big change from his previous job working on electrical connectors. While he faced a steep learning curve, he says other Team Members quickly helped him get up to speed.
“Making diapers is a lot more complex,” Ben said. “We’re running high-tech machines that combine multiple materials all at once. If something goes wrong, you have to figure out which material is causing the issue.”
That’s where Ben comes in. Known as a problem-solver, he’s happy to help teammates work through any engineering challenge that may arise during a shift. Now he’s applying his skills and experience to support a major investment at the plant.
‘Constantly changing and innovating’
Ben’s latest project is taking him beyond the world of diapers to a new type of hygiene product. He’s helping start up a production line to make bladder control pads. Using advanced technology, the new line will manufacture First Quality’s Prevail bladder control pads that include a MaxSorb+ Zone™ gel core for rapid absorption.
While Ben is leaning on some of his diaper knowledge for the startup, he’s embraced the opportunity to learn the new manufacturing process in a hands-on way.
“As we learn things, I like to get other Team Members involved and share those learnings. We talk through any issues and how to prevent them next time,” he said. “It’s a team effort and we are all focused on the same goal of getting the new line up and running.”
Ben says he’s glad to see First Quality continue to invest in new technology and equipment.
“First Quality is constantly changing and innovating, so I’m constantly in a state of learning and developing my own skills,” he said. “It’s exciting to be part of a company that continues to grow.”
About First Quality
First Quality is a closely-held diversified group of companies manufacturing, selling and distributing branded and private label absorbent hygiene, paper and packaging products into the healthcare, retail and commercial channels. First Quality is dedicated to meeting the demands of the market by providing innovative and high-quality products manufactured utilizing state- of-the-art technology. For more information, please visit www.firstquality.com.
Media Contact: media@firstquality.com