This May, Process Engineer Joseph Bailen was recognized as one of 30 of the industry’s brightest stars, age 35 and under, in the 2025 Plastics News Rising Stars.
From experimenting in the kitchen to problem-solving on the production floor, Joe brings curiosity, dedication, and a strong team spirit to everything he does. We sat down with him to learn more about his journey—from growing up in a close-knit family to working on cutting-edge micromolding projects.
Figure out what aspect of plastics excites you—whether it’s chemistry, processing, automation, sustainability, or something else. The industry is broad, and there’s space for every kind of passion. If you follow what excites you, you’ll find your place.
Q: Tell us about your family.
My parents have built a life rooted in love and support. I was adopted from South Korea, as were my two younger siblings.
My parents have played a huge role in shaping who I am today. My mom especially instilled in me a deep sense of family values—our holidays are filled with laughter, stories, and games around the dinner table. I also spent every Saturday growing up driving with my dad to visit his father. Those trips taught me that consistency, connection, and presence matter more than anything.
Both my parents are hard workers who never take shortcuts. They’ve always encouraged us to explore our own paths—never controlling, but always supportive of new hobbies and interests. They also have shown me what loyalty and commitment to your work look like.
Q: What was your first job in the plastics industry?
Before MTD, I interned at a large conveyor belt company in New Orleans. It was a really family-oriented environment and a great experience. But I knew I wanted to be closer to home and my own family, which made MTD a perfect fit. It was amazing to discover such a high-tech facility right in my hometown of Charlton. Seeing cleanrooms and precision manufacturing in a small town is pretty inspiring.
Joe preparing a mold for press installation
Q: How did you get started at MTD?
I started at MTD as an intern in May 2023 and was officially hired as a Process Engineer that December.
Q: What’s been the most rewarding part of your work so far?
What I love about working at MTD is that no two days are the same. The work is challenging, but incredibly rewarding. I’ve contributed to programs that simply couldn’t be done elsewhere, and it’s fulfilling to be part of a team that consistently rises to the challenge. I’ve learned so much—especially about robotics, automation, and new technologies—and I’m proud to be involved in projects that push boundaries.
Each time our team overcomes a particularly difficult challenge, it feels like a huge win.
Q: What kind of challenges are you working through right now?
Balancing multiple projects at once has definitely stretched me. But the support here is amazing—people offer help before you even ask. That kind of culture makes a big difference.
Q: Who do you look up to?
At MTD, Dave was my first boss and an early mentor. Today, I look up to Jared, Anthony, Jason, and Pat. They each bring different strengths—critical thinking, creative problem solving, technical know-how, and teamwork. I’ve learned a lot from them and feel comfortable turning to them for advice.
Outside of work, my biggest role models are my parents. They’ve shaped who I am—for better or worse, as they like to joke—and they constantly remind me of the values that matter most.
Q: If you were CEO of a company, what would you do first?
The first thing I’d do is prioritize culture. That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned at MTD. I’d start by listening—especially to those who’ve been with the company a long time—to understand what works and what doesn’t. Good leadership starts with understanding that what works for one person might not work for everyone. It’s all about building an inclusive, thriving environment.
The first thing I’d do [if I were a CEO] is prioritize culture. That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned at MTD.
Q: What emerging technology or market most interests you?
My family has deep roots in engineering and the military, so I’m naturally drawn to projects in those areas. I’m especially excited by medical device technologies—projects that can improve procedures and truly help people. Knowing that the work we do can make a difference keeps me passionate and motivated.
Q: What’s something about the plastics industry that surprised you?
One of the biggest surprises is how much experience can outweigh a degree. Some of the most knowledgeable people I’ve worked with don’t have formal plastics degrees, but bring invaluable insights to the table.
Q: What does sustainability (especially related to plastics) mean to you?
Sustainability is very important to me. I haven’t used a single-use water bottle in over seven years. I try to eliminate single-use products from my life and recycle as much as possible. It’s about being mindful—both professionally and personally—not to be wasteful and to respect the impact our actions have on the environment.
Q: How did COVID shape your career path?
During the pandemic, I was in college earning my BS in Plastics Engineering from UMass Lowell, and fortunate enough to continue my studies from home. I also worked at a grocery store, which I genuinely enjoyed. COVID pushed my graduation back by a semester due to family and internship commitments—but in a way, that delay opened the door for my opportunity at MTD.
Q: What’s the best career advice you’ve received?
My teacher at Shepherd Hill Regional High School once told me, “Find something you love and it will never feel like work.” That stuck with me.
Q: What advice would you give to someone new to the plastics industry?
Figure out what aspect of plastics excites you—whether it’s chemistry, processing, automation, sustainability, or something else. The industry is broad, and there’s space for every kind of passion. If you follow what excites you, you’ll find your place.
Q: What do you love to do outside of work?
I enjoy going to the gym at night with a friend, and cooking is my favorite way to unwind. One of my favorite memories is Sunday dinners at my Nana’s house. Her cooking sparked my passion for food. Cooking is personal—I like figuring out what people enjoy and making something that makes them happy. I love putting on music and making dinner for my family, and I try a new recipe every week. My specialty is fried shrimp po’ boys, which I learned to make in Louisiana.
I’m also a big Boston sports fan—baseball, basketball, football—you name it. Win or lose, I’m loyal. When I travel, I enjoy visiting other stadiums; they’re usually more affordable than catching a game in Boston!
Q: What job do you really want to have in the future?
Honestly, I love the job I have now. As long as I’m solving problems, working with a strong team, and continuing to learn, I’m happy. Long term, I’d like to become an expert in my field—someone who can drive efficient solutions and tackle hard-to-solve problems.
Joe, seated second from the left, enjoying a holiday gathering with the MTD team.