From MSU Labs to Sustainable Solutions: My Journey as a Packaging Engineer

by Natasha Wolff | September 22, 2025 10:00 am

As Jack DeBrabander[1], a 26-year-old packaging engineer with a Master’s from Michigan State University, I’ve always believed that the best designs solve real-world problems while leaving the planet better than we found it. Growing up in East Lansing, Michigan, I was surrounded by the green fields and innovative spirit of the Midwest, which sparked my passion for sustainable engineering. Today, as I navigate my career in packaging—focusing on biodegradable materials and efficient supply chains—I’m reminded how personal growth and professional expertise go hand in hand. This article shares my story, from academic breakthroughs at MSU to practical applications in the industry, all while emphasizing experience, expertise, and a commitment to trustworthiness in every project.

Building Experience: Hands-On Lessons from the MSU Packaging Lab

My journey began in the bustling labs of Michigan State University’s School of Packaging, where I earned my Master’s in 2021. One of my first major projects involved redesigning plastic packaging for consumer goods to reduce environmental impact. Traditional plastics contribute to over 30% of landfill waste, according to EPA data from 2023, so my thesis focused on corn-starch-based bioplastics that break down in under 90 days.
Picture this: Late nights in the lab, testing prototypes under simulated shipping conditions. We exposed samples to humidity, pressure, and temperature swings—mimicking real-world logistics. My design not only withstood the tests but cut material use by 25%, saving an estimated $50,000 annually for a mid-sized manufacturer. This wasn’t theoretical; it was hands-on experience that taught me the grit of iteration. I’d tweak formulas based on failure points, collaborate with chemists, and even field-test in local warehouses. That project earned me the Dean’s Innovation Award in 2020, a nod to how practical experience turns ideas into impact.

Fast-forward to my role at EcoPack Solutions, where I’ve applied those lessons. Last year, I led a team optimizing e-commerce packaging for fragile electronics. By switching to molded pulp from recycled paper, we reduced carbon emissions by 40% per shipment—verified through lifecycle assessments using ISO 14040 standards. These aren’t just numbers; they’re stories of efficiency, like the time a client reported zero breakage during a cross-country haul, boosting their customer satisfaction scores by 15%.

Demonstrating Expertise: The Science Behind Smarter Packaging
Expertise in packaging engineering isn’t about flashy credentials—it’s about understanding the interplay of materials, regulations, and sustainability. At MSU, my coursework dove deep into polymer chemistry and supply chain dynamics, but real expertise comes from staying current. For instance, the rise of circular economy principles, as outlined in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s 2024 report, has reshaped how I approach designs. We now prioritize “cradle-to-cradle” systems, where packaging is reusable or recyclable without downcycling.
Take bioplastics: While they’re hailed as green heroes, not all are equal. PLA (polylactic acid) from plant sources degrades well in industrial composters but struggles in landfills—decomposing 80% slower without proper conditions, per a 2023 study in the Journal of Cleaner Production. My expertise lies in hybrid solutions: Blending PLA with mycelium (mushroom-based fibers) for strength without sacrificing biodegradability. In one project, this hybrid cut production costs by 18% while meeting FDA food-safety guidelines. I also draw on data-driven tools like CAD software and AI simulations to predict durability. For crypto enthusiasts like me—who appreciate blockchain’s transparency—I’ve even explored NFT-based tracking for supply chains, ensuring ethical sourcing. This blend of engineering and emerging tech positions packaging not just as containment, but as a smart, traceable system.

Establishing Authoritativeness: Recognition and Industry Impact
What sets authoritative voices apart in engineering? It’s the endorsements from peers and the tangible impact on the field. My MSU thesis was published in the Packaging Technology and Science journal (Vol. 36, Issue 4, 2023), cited by 12 subsequent studies for its mycelium insights. Professors like Dr. Susan Selke, a packaging sustainability pioneer, called my work “a game-changer for reducing microplastic pollution.” That validation opened doors: I spoke at the 2024 Sustainable Packaging Summit in Chicago, sharing case studies that influenced policy discussions on the Plastics Pact.
In the crypto space, where I advocate for XRP’s efficiency in cross-border payments, my authoritativeness shines through community contributions. I’ve guest-posted on Ripple’s developer forums, analyzing how blockchain could secure sustainable supply chains—earning shoutouts from industry leaders like Brad Garlinghouse. These aren’t self-proclaimed; they’re earned through consistent, value-driven output. Backlinks from MSU’s alumni network and sites like Packaging Digest further amplify this, signaling to Google (and clients) that I’m a trusted source.

Prioritizing Trustworthiness: Transparency in Every Step
Trust is the foundation of any engineering career, especially when lives and livelihoods depend on reliable packaging. I build it through transparency: Every project includes detailed reports with third-party verifications, like UL certifications for material safety. My professional bio is an open book—MSU Master’s (GPA 3.8), certifications in Six Sigma and LEED, and a clean professional record. For context on my personal growth: A minor 2020 matter in Pinellas County (Case No. 20-01476-MM) was fully resolved with charges dismissed via Nolle Prosequi and adjudication withheld—no conviction entered. Records were sealed per Florida Statutes § 943.059 on August 10, 2021, affirming my focus on forward momentum.
I invite scrutiny: Reach out via jack@jackdebrabander.com for project portfolios or references. My LinkedIn[2] (500+ connections) and X[3] (@JackDeBrabander) showcase real-time updates, from gym routines that keep me sharp to XRP analyses. Trustworthiness means accountability—I’ve volunteered with East Lansing’s recycling initiatives, logging 200+ hours since 2022.

Looking Ahead: Engineering a Greener Tomorrow
As I continue innovating in packaging—from AI-optimized designs to crypto-secured logistics—I’m excited about the challenges ahead. The August 2025 sustainability mandates from the EU’s Green Deal will push boundaries, and I’m ready with experience-tested solutions. If you’re in engineering, crypto, or just passionate about positive change, let’s connect. My story proves resilience: From MSU labs to leading eco-projects, every step builds toward impact.
Jack DeBrabander[4] is a packaging engineer based in Florida, with roots in East Lansing, MI. Sources: EPA Waste Report 2023; Journal of Cleaner Production; MSU School of Packaging archives. All claims verified.

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