Georgia-Pacific (GP) has reinforced its commitment to cultivating the next generation of manufacturing and industry professionals through two significant educational donations totaling $15,000 to technical colleges and universities in the South.
The investments—one focused on local skilled trades in South Carolina and the other targeting future pulp and paper leaders in Alabama—underscore the company's strategy to address the growing need for specialized, highly trained employees in its core operational areas.
Clarendon Facility Boosts Mechatronics Training
GP's Clarendon Oriented Strand Board (OSB) facility in Sumter, South Carolina, announced a $5,000 donation to the Central Carolina Technical College (CCTC) Foundation, specifically in support of the college’s Mechatronics program. This contribution brings the local facility's total investment in the program to $15,000.
Mechatronics is a crucial interdisciplinary field combining mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. According to GP, supporting programs like CCTC's is vital for ensuring that students acquire the broad range of skills necessary to succeed in today’s technologically advanced manufacturing environment.
"This investment continues to show Georgia-Pacific’s commitment to the region and investing in the workforce of tomorrow," said Jim Motes, Plant Manager for Clarendon OSB. "We are proud to partner with CCTC, and we look forward to working with them more in the future.”
The Clarendon facility manufactures premier OSB products like Blue Ribbon® and ForceField® Sheathing Panels from sustainably sourced materials.
Supporting Future Pulp & Paper Leaders at Auburn
On the same day, Georgia-Pacific provided a $10,000 donation to the Technical Association of the Pulp & Paper Industry (TAPPI) student chapter at Auburn University in Alabama.
The funding is earmarked to support the students’ attendance at the next national TAPPI Student Summit, which is scheduled to be held in Birmingham, Alabama. This will allow the largest group of Auburn pulp and paper students yet to attend the critical industry event.
Tanner Stogner, President of the Auburn TAPPI Student Chapter, expressed gratitude for the company's partnership, noting that GP's support will cover travel, lodging, and registration costs.
Tyler Hart, Vice-President of Engineering for Georgia-Pacific and current president of the Auburn Pulp and Paper Foundation, emphasized the importance of the partnership.
“Through this donation, Georgia-Pacific is making sure that these students have the means and connections to succeed as they navigate our industry,” Hart stated. “Being able to support a group of students who are focused, excited, and well-versed in our industry is a great way in which Georgia-Pacific... can support the next generation of pulp and paper professionals.”
In addition to financial aid, Georgia-Pacific engages with Auburn's program through mock interviews, mill tours, and other networking opportunities throughout the year.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific is a leading producer of tissue, paper-based packaging, cellulose, building products, and engineered wood. The company operates more than 150 facilities across North America and employs approximately 30,000 people, supporting tens of thousands more through its supply chain.
Source: Georgia-Pacific
