Abstract:
Market trends for power and telecommunication networks are accelerating demand for cable solutions. Significant infrastructure investments are one of the drivers fueling increased demand for the wire and cable industry. While the global demand for energy and enhanced connectivity continue to rise with population growth, so does the need for worldwide carbon reduction targets and more sustainable solutions. From renewable feedstock options to mechanical recycling – such as use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic – to advanced recycling, sustainability conversations are on the rise and the cable and connectivity industry has a tremendous opportunity while also an analogous challenge. How can we work as an industry to achieve these goals?
About the Presenters:
Dr. Rennisha Wickham, North America Customer Manager, Wire & Cable is accountable for cultivating strategic partnerships through innovation and collaboration across the value chain. She focuses on supporting the growth of specialty plastics in competitive energy and infrastructure markets while delivering a valuable customer experience. As an Inclusion and Diversity Champion, she also drives a global inclusion culture across Dow’s Packaging and Specialty Plastics business and empowers her internal and external partners to cultivate a diverse community of critical thinkers that can solve the world’s most challenging problems. Rennisha recognizes the tremendous role mentorship has played in her professional success by supporting the next generation of leaders in science and innovation. In addition, Rennisha’s commitment to STEM education, coupled with her dedication to sustainability and diversity, has enabled her to transform her passion into a fulfilling sense of purpose.
Dr. Paul Brigandi is Application Technology Leader for Dow Packaging & Specialty Plastics’ Wire & Cable business in North America based in Collegeville, PA. Paul has experience in the power transmission and distribution as well as telecommunication markets focused on research and development of new insulation, jacket, conductive composites, and polymer modifier material developments. His technical expertise includes formulation and processing of polyolefins, elastomers, and polymer composites. Paul is active in several industry organizations including Insulated Conductors Committee, Communications Cable and Connectivity Association, and Fiber Broadband Association technical committees. He also serves as 1st Vice President and on the Board of Directors of the Society of Plastics Engineers Palisades-MidAtlantic Section. Paul earned a Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering from Lehigh University and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware. He is also an active Adjunct Professor at Lehigh University in the Material Science & Engineering department.
Lauren Boss is a Marketing Manager from Dow. She has 9 years of experience in the polyethylene and specialty materials industry. Lauren focuses on the North American Wire & Cable and Pipe markets and she brings unique insights related to infrastructure mega trends in the region.
