First Polymer Skillnet operates as a training network for the plastics industry in Ireland and is funded under the government’s Skillnet initiative. Initiated by Plastics Ireland (Ibec) in 1999, First Polymer Skillnet's primary objective is to provide technical accredited training to polymer processors, both at its centre in Athlone and in-company as required. The administrative and training centre is located at 7 Centre Court, Blyry Business and Commercial Park, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. The training centre contains state of the art facilities including 2 training rooms and a technical training hall comprised of 4 injection moulding machines, extrusion, thermoforming equipment and maintenance training boards.