Nissei Technology (Vietnam) Ltd., one of our customers in Vietnam, established a JointLab in October 2024 in collaboration with Hanoi University of Science and Technology. This initiative aims to develop human resources in the fields of mold manufacturing, injection molding, and automation.
At the JointLab, participants systematically study plastic materials, mold design, and injection molding through weekly lectures over the course of approximately one year. The program begins with classroom-based learning, followed by hands-on training where students progressively learn practical skills such as mold fabrication, injection molding, and troubleshooting molding defects.
In the field of injection molding, our machines are used, and engineers from our local subsidiary, SHI Plastics Machinery (Vietnam) LLC, deliver lectures as instructors.
This spring, the first group of JointLab graduates completed the program and began their careers in society, with some securing positions at Nissei Technology (Vietnam) Ltd.
In this article, we spoke with Kazunori Ajikawa, General Manager of the General Administration Department at Nissei Technology Vietnam, about the background of the JointLab initiative, and also interviewed graduates about their experiences.
We asked Ajikawa to share the background and motivation behind establishing JointLab.
Ajikawa:
"Following a consultation regarding new graduate recruitment, we visited the School of Mechanical Engineering at Hanoi University of Science and Technology. As our relationship deepened, we were approached by the university with a request to support the establishment of a JointLab.
The university's primary expectation was that students would receive thorough, hands-on training in three key areas--mold manufacturing, injection molding, and automation--using our technologies, so that they could become immediately effective after graduation. They also hoped to provide an environment where students could learn Japanese language, Japanese culture, and the philosophy of manufacturing, with the aim of employment at Japanese-affiliated companies.
From our company's perspective as well, contributing to the development of future talent in Vietnam's manufacturing industry aligns with our corporate principle: 'Contribute to society in the countries where we are allowed to operate our business.'
In order to achieve meaningful results, we sought partner companies that would share and support the objectives of JointLab, and decided to move forward as "Team Japan."
We have maintained a long-standing relationship with Sumitomo Heavy Industries through injection molding machines, and we first approached Yusuke Okawa, the local representative, to ask if they would join as a JointLab partner. We gratefully received their support."
From our side as well, we were pleased to contribute to the development of capable professionals who can thrive on-site through this initiative and thus decided to collaborate.
The interviewees are Bui Dang Tram and Dam Van Tung, both graduates of the School of Mechanical Engineering at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, who are now working at Nissei Technology Vietnam.
Both decided to join JointLab because they were attracted to the opportunity to learn in a practical, real-world environment through collaboration between academia and industry.
From left: Bui Dang Tram and Dam Van Tung
Bui Dang Tram:
"At JointLab, I was able to learn everything from basic knowledge of resins to the mechanisms of injection molding, as well as gain practical experience through hands-on training with actual machines. I realized that injection molding requires far more complex and advanced techniques than I had imagined. To meet customer requirements, it is necessary to consider various factors such as resin properties, product shape, and molding conditions.
I also found Sumitomo injection molding machines easy to use, thanks to their user-friendly interface and Vietnamese-language manuals.
Through my experience at JointLab, I was able to build a solid foundation for a career in the manufacturing industry."
Dam Van Tung:
"At JointLab, I gained practical experience that is not typically available in student life, preparing me for becoming a working professional. Specifically, I was able to experience the entire process myself--from creating mold drawings, to manufacturing molds using machining equipment, and then performing injection molding using those molds.
When I first learned about machine structures and operation methods in classroom lectures, I found some aspects difficult. However, by actually operating the machines myself, my understanding deepened, and I became accustomed to handling them more quickly than expected. The parameter settings were also clear and intuitive, and the support for the Vietnamese language provided a strong sense of reassurance.
Thanks to JointLab, I was able to begin my professional career already capable of operating injection molding machines, which has given me great confidence. I am deeply grateful to Nissei Technology for providing this opportunity."
Bui Dang Tram:
"Nissei Technology Vietnam is a major company in the mold manufacturing and injection molding industry, known for its high-precision product capabilities and comfortable working environment. I felt it was an ideal place for someone with limited experience like me to grow, and that is why I decided to join.
Currently, I work in the machining department, where I am involved in mold manufacturing using various types of equipment. There are many machines I had never used before, and while it is challenging, it is also motivating as I continue to challenge myself every day."
Dam Van Tung:
"Nissei Technology Vietnam is a highly influential company in the fields of mold manufacturing and injection molding, and I was particularly attracted by the friendliness and teamwork among employees.
Currently, I belong to the technical analysis group, where I am engaged in evaluation and improvement of completed molds. I examine each mold individually for each product model, considering whether there are areas for improvement or opportunities for cost optimization. It is a role that requires analytical thinking, but it is very rewarding."
Bui Dang Tram:
"I aim to master the operation of machining equipment and deepen my knowledge of mold design, while refining processing techniques to improve productivity and precision."
Dam Van Tung:
"In the future, I would like to learn more about mold design, product design, and research and development for lens products. I also hope to visit Japan and challenge myself to acquire more advanced technologies."
The JointLab initiative has become a starting point for shaping the careers of these young professionals. Seeing their strong aspirations toward building their careers in Vietnam's manufacturing industry left a deep impression on us as interviewers.
We will continue to support initiatives like this, which contribute to the development of talent who can actively contribute to real production environments.
▮NISSEI TECHNOLOGY (VIETNAM) LTD.
Nissei Technology (Vietnam) Ltd., headquartered by Nissei Technology Co., Ltd. in Japan, was established in January 2006 in Haiphong, Vietnam.
Since starting production of precision molded components, the company has expanded its business by developing local mold manufacturing and injection molding operations. It has increased its production capacity by adding a second factory in 2013 and a third factory in 2019, establishing an integrated production system from mold manufacturing to molding and assembly.
https://nisseivn.com/jp/