From Engineer to Technical Manager at Erteco Rubber & Plastics

Erteco is one of the largest distributors of plastic materials and rubber raw materials in the Nordic and Baltic markets. The company works with some of the world’s leading material manufacturers and acts as a link between producers and customers. With high technical expertise and a strong supplier network, Erteco helps customers choose the right materials, optimize processes, and develop sustainable products.

In the company’s offering, the Tech Center plays a central role. This is where theory meets practice, ideas are tested, solutions are simulated, and products are refined before they go into production.

– The Tech Center is our way of giving customers more than just materials. We want to be a partner throughout the entire development process, says Ida Jonsson, Technical Manager at Erteco.

Now in charge of the Tech Center

After six and a half years at Erteco, Ida has taken responsibility for the Tech Center, which is at the heart of Erteco’s technical customer support. The team helps companies with everything from material selection and simulations to process optimization and tooling advice.

 –  I am responsible for leading and driving the work at the Tech Center, but I also continue to work hands-on. Simulations and mold filling calculations are still a big part of my job, Ida explains.

Through advanced simulations, FEM analyses, and test runs, the team helps customers optimize designs, save time, and reduce waste.

 – It’s the combination of advanced technology and close collaboration with customers that makes the Tech Center unique. We can support our customers at a level that really makes a difference, says Ida.

Working to change the industry

The industrial sector is still male-dominated, something Ida noticed early during her engineering studies, where women made up only about 20 percent of her class.

– There have always been more men in the industry, and unfortunately, many people still see it as heavy and dirty work. But today’s industry is something completely different, high-tech, clean, and full of innovation, she says.

To create change, visibility is key. Showing women in leadership roles and providing role models for the next generation is essential.

– When I was studying, it was inspiring to meet women who were already working in the industry. It showed me that it was possible, and that is exactly what I hope to contribute now. I want to inspire more women to consider a future in industry, she says.

A natural meeting place for the future

Erteco has participated in Elmia Subcontractor since 2003, and for the team, the fair is a natural meeting place. The entire industry come together for a few intensive days filled with conversations, ideas, and collaborations.

– Personal meetings are invaluable. After the pandemic, a lot has gone digital, but nothing beats actually meeting, having a coffee, and discussing ideas. After Elmia Subcontractor, you always go home full of energy and new thoughts, says Ida.

For Erteco, the fair is also an opportunity to come together internally. Colleagues from across the country come together, share experiences, and strengthen teamwork for the future.

– It’s a natural gathering point for us, and it would feel strange not to be part of Elmia Subcontractor, concludes Ida Jonsson.