Nurturing a Love of Papermaking in Our Communities

Rhea-AI Summary

International Paper Company's Cedar Rapids, Iowa containerboard mill and box plant recently hosted two local Boy Scout troops, providing them with a firsthand look at the papermaking process. This visit was part of the scouts' journey to earn their pulp and paper merit badge. The scouts observed the entire process, from recycled material entering the pulper tub to the creation of finished boxes.

The tour included demonstrations in the design lab, where structural designer Kelsey Schwartz showcased prototype cutting for customers. Jason Lee, NAC sales enablement manager and a scout parent, noted the scouts' enthusiasm for seeing large equipment in action and observing teamwork.

This event is part of IP's broader initiative to engage with youth organizations, schools, and technical programs to foster interest in papermaking and manufacturing careers. Maris Peno, retain and recruit program lead, emphasized the importance of these experiences in building a future workforce pipeline. The company encourages community involvement and exploration of manufacturing careers, with Manufacturing Day events available throughout October.

Positive

• Engagement with local youth organizations to promote interest in papermaking and manufacturing careers
• Showcasing the company's production processes and technology to potential future employees
• Building a workforce pipeline through community outreach and educational initiatives

Negative

• None.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 8, 2024 / International Paper Company

The Boy Scouts of America has been a hallmark organization for instilling leadership, character and a sense of responsibility in young people for over a century. One of the most recognizable aspects of a scout's journey is the pursuit of merit badges. With over 130 merit badges available, scouts can explore a wide range of interests including the art and science of papermaking.

"[Kids] can't be what they don't see," said retain and recruit program lead Maris Peno, quoting one of her colleagues. All the ways our teams engage the local community add up to a strong workforce pipeline for the future.

When the IP's Cedar Rapids, Iowa containerboard mill and box plant hosted two local Boy Scout troops, they gave the youth a firsthand look at the process of papermaking, just one checkpoint needed to earn their pulp and paper merit badge. Scouts saw the entire process: from recycled material entering the pulper tub, to spools of paper coming together to become the familiar boxes they welcome at their front door. They learned what makes a good sheet of containerboard, the on-box print process and what characteristics make a high-quality product that our customers expect.

"The tour was an excellent experience for these young scouts. They loved seeing the large equipment running. Some told me that they could see everyone working together in a team environment, which impressed them," said Jason Lee, NAC sales enablement manager and parent of a visiting scout.

The troops also spent time with structural designer Kelsey Schwartz in her design lab at the box plant. Scouts watched as she demonstrated how she uses her machines to cut prototypes for customers. To commemorate the visit, she created signs for each troop to take with them. "I always strive to make what we do at Cedar Rapids Box relatable to the visitor, something that expands beyond a standard box that they can remember their tour by and show how versatile corrugate can be," said Schwartz.

Visits like this happen frequently in our mill communities. Our teams actively engage youth organizations, high schools, community colleges and technical programs to nurture a love of papermaking.

"Our goal is to provide a unique experience, showing individuals that IP is not only a great place to work, but also a place to gain a lifelong, sustainable career," said Maris. "There's a place for everyone in manufacturing."

If you have youth of your own, we challenge you to find what they are interested in and dive deep into whatever it may be. Take classes, attend local community or church events and allow them to explore. You never know what seed may be planted that you helped nourish.

During the month of October, you can find a Manufacturing Day event in your community at https://mfgday.com.

About International Paper

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of the world's largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2023 were $18.9 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com/.

About International Paper - EMEA

In Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), International Paper focuses on the production and marketing of fiber-based packaging and specialty pulp, employing approximately 4,400 people. As a leading supplier of high-quality corrugated containers for a multitude of applications, we serve customers throughout the region from our network of two recycled containerboard mills and 23 box plants in France, Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Spain. Specialty pulp is made in Gdansk, Poland. Other products available from International Paper in the region include a variety of Kraft linerboard and other pulp products.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International Paper Company on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:
Spokesperson: International Paper Company
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-paper-company
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: International Paper Company

View the original press release on accesswire.com

FAQ

What event did International Paper (IP) host for Boy Scout troops in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?

International Paper's Cedar Rapids, Iowa containerboard mill and box plant hosted two local Boy Scout troops, providing them with a tour of the papermaking process as part of their journey to earn the pulp and paper merit badge.

How is International Paper (IP) engaging with youth to promote careers in manufacturing?

IP is actively engaging with youth organizations, high schools, community colleges, and technical programs to nurture interest in papermaking and manufacturing careers. They provide tours, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences to showcase the industry and potential career opportunities.

What did the Boy Scouts learn during their visit to International Paper's (IP) Cedar Rapids facility?

The Boy Scouts learned about the entire papermaking process, from recycled material entering the pulper tub to the creation of finished boxes. They also observed the on-box print process, learned about product quality, and saw demonstrations in the design lab where prototypes are cut for customers.

How can people find Manufacturing Day events in their community related to International Paper (IP)?

People can find Manufacturing Day events in their community during October by visiting https://mfgday.com, as mentioned in the press release.