“I haven’t had an average day since I left inside sales—and that’s what I love most,” shared Robert Clague, Regional Sales Manager at Piovan/UnaDyn. Over the past three years, he’s embraced the dynamic nature of his role, from supporting contract negotiations to traveling and getting hands-on with machinery at customer facilities and no two days are the same
Robert works for Piovan, a company known for its comprehensive range of equipment and solutions that “help plastics and food processors improve the efficiency, productivity, and quality of their operations.”
Robert’s journey into the plastics industry began unexpectedly. “An invitation to visit Krauss Maffei’s open house in Florence, Kentucky led to an internship and subsequent job offer prior to graduating college,” he recalls. “I remember that I was mesmerized by the injection, extrusion, and RIM processes they had on display.”
Mentorship has played a vital role in Robert’s professional growth. “I am grateful to Hans Matthesius, a valued friend and mentor, for providing me with that very first opportunity to join his team,” he shares. “I worked on a diverse range of commercial and technical projects within the extrusion sector. Many of the professional connections I forged during my first year continue to be invaluable, and I regularly collaborate with colleagues from that time.”
Reflecting on the industry, Robert highlights what sets it apart: “The people in this industry are hands down the most entrepreneurial, exciting, diverse, humble, and hardworking you’ll meet.”
His career has also given him a new appreciation for plastics in daily life. “From infrastructure to transportation and lifesaving medical technology. These all rely on our responsible use of plastics throughout the chain of ownership!”
But the industry is not without its challenges and, for Robert, addressing these challenges proactively is critical. “By promoting circularity and embracing sustainability, the plastics industry can transition towards a more sustainable and circular future, while continuing to provide valuable products and solutions for society.”
As a decade-long member of the Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP) program, Robert has benefited from networking and professional development opportunities. “I was paired with Steve Petrakis in the FLiP Mentorship program at its inception,” he says. “This experience underscores the vital importance of PLASTICS’ commitment to nurturing its newest and youngest members.”
FLiP has enriched his career through “peer-to-peer networking across the industry at supplier and producer levels,” which he notes has led to lasting friendships. “The group is incredibly dynamic, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to join us!”
For young professionals considering a career in plastics, Robert offers an optimistic outlook. “Domestic manufacturing has witnessed a resurgence, driven by the increasing demand for shorter and more resilient supply chains.” He adds, “Opportunities for growth within the plastics sector are abundant, spanning key areas such as automotive, packaging, medical devices, industrial applications, and consumer goods. Furthermore, the field of additive manufacturing presents exciting new avenues for innovation and development.”
Outside of work, Robert is a devoted family member. “My free time is dedicated to my wife and our two daughters. We live in Maryland along the scenic Chesapeake Bay, where we enjoy an active lifestyle.” He’s also pursuing his pilot’s license, continuing “a family tradition of aviation that spans three generations.”
When it comes to plastic products, one stands out. “My Nalgene water bottle has paid for itself 100x—but it’s hard to pick one item when I have thousands I rely on daily,” he laughs.
For Robert Clague, the plastics industry is about more than work—it’s a community, a source of innovation, and a pathway to a sustainable future.
PLASTICS and the Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP) Committee are devoted to supporting and encouraging the next generation of plastics leaders who will play a crucial role in the innovation, technology and future of the plastics industry. FLiP’s mission is to provide young professionals under the age of 40 the exposure, education and resources they need to build lifelong careers in plastics. Want to join? Want to get your employees involved? Email: [email protected]