Malena, Vanessa

Vanessa Malena is an accomplished leader in the plastics industry, currently serving as the President of ENGEL North America. With over 29 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to driving innovation, sustainability, and growth. Vanessa attended both the University of Connecticut and Naugatuck Valley Technical College, where she earned her associate degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1994. Vanessa's professional journey began as an automation engineer, a role where her passion for mechanical engineering converged with the plastics industry. Over the years, she has held various positions, honing her skills in both inside and outside sales. Her rich experience in these roles has enabled her to develop a comprehensive understanding of the industry's intricacies and the needs of ENGEL's customers. In addition to her leadership role at ENGEL North America, Vanessa is actively involved in shaping the industry's future. She is a dedicated member of the Plastics Association's Sustainability Board and Public Policy Board. Her engagement in these boards showcases her commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management, critical factors in the plastics industry's evolution. Vanessa's vision for ENGEL North America is clear. She aims to build a well-trained team that can skillfully support customers while simultaneously nurturing the company's future leaders. This long-term focus emphasizes succession planning and employee retention as essential components of ENGEL's success. Furthermore, Vanessa is dedicated to supporting customers on their journey towards sustainability. She firmly believes that plastics can be a sustainable solution, provided that accountable recycling practices are adopted. Her commitment to making the plastics industry eco-friendly and resource-efficient is a testament to her forward-thinking and responsible leadership.