We are saddened to share that Glenn Beall, a revered and beloved figure in the plastics industry, passed away on July 24th. Glenn was more than an engineer, inventor, educator, and entrepreneur—he was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to generations of plastics professionals. His legacy spans over six decades and touches every corner of our field.
After earning his engineering degree from Bradley University in 1957, Glenn began his career at Abbott Laboratories, where his innovative work in drug delivery systems earned him 12 patents. His passion for design and materials led him to found Glenn Beall Engineering, Inc. and later Glenn Beall Plastics, Ltd., adding 23 more patents to his name and influencing product design for decades to come.
Glenn had an unmatched gift for teaching. Through more than 650 seminars, he shared his deep knowledge with nearly 30,000 professionals, helping countless individuals grow in their careers. His seminars weren’t just technical—they were inspiring, practical, and filled with stories that made complex ideas feel approachable.
A lifelong and deeply engaged member of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), Glenn held numerous leadership roles and played a significant role in shaping the organization’s mission, including the founding of the Medical Plastics Division in 1982. We were honored to celebrate his career at the 2024 Glenn Beall Symposium at ANTEC®, where he spoke and inspired us once again.
His fingerprints are everywhere—from the Plastics Design Forum to the advancement of rotational molding, from SPE leadership to preserving our industry’s history through the Plastics Pioneers Association and the Syracuse University Plastics Collection.
We have fond memories of Glenn—not just as a giant in our field, but as a generous, kind, and thoughtful human being. His legacy of innovation and mentorship will continue to guide us for years to come.
To make a donation in Glenn’s memory to the Patsy and Glenn Beall scholarship. Link here
He will be deeply missed.
Also see Plastics Trailblazer Glenn Beall Passes Away
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