Our newest cohort visited Domtar’s paper mill in Bennettsville, SC on their very first Saturday on campus. The day’s trek started early with a long bus ride, then added a full mill tour and site lunch for all. Students learned about every part of the mill and how it worked encouraging a lively discussion on the ride back throwing around paper maker terms like old pros. Dr. Byrd noted it “filled his heart” to hear this quick engagement and is very excited by these new young engineers. Our new class numbers 43 students comprised of 19% from out of state.

Once back on campus, students prepared for a competitive presentation to “show their paper chops” the following Monday. Dr. Byrd, again, was highly impressed with them saying their presentations were more indicative of 2nd year students, quite the compliment for students barely on campus a week! 3rd year students, Sara Gregory ’27 and Abby Hickman ’27, helped judge the winners who took home JBL Bluetooth speakers for their prize. Sara recently interned with Georgia-Pacific in Georgia and Abby completed another internship summer with International Paper in Franklin, Va. PSE can count on our students to help out, one of the unique outcomes of our program, the desire to give back!

We anticipate great things from these exceptional students as they grow and mature during the impending professional development season that includes mock interviews, our paper industry career fair, interview season for summer internships and resume writing drills. The process is tried and true leading to polished young professionals ready to take on the world upon graduation. Many thanks to Domtar for acting as gracious hosts on a Saturday and to Allan Bohn, our Domtar Board Director who took time to meet with the students visiting the mill where he serves as general manager. Domtar also provides the program and the College of Natural Resources with copy paper as part of their continuing support, thank you!