Noah Crowder ’27 Reflects On Unique Experiences in Paper Science Program

Noah Crowder, a junior dual majoring in paper science and engineering and chemical engineering, was recently honored with the TAPPI PIMA Student Leadership Award.

The PIMA Student Leadership Award recognizes and supports an outstanding student leader who has best demonstrated outstanding leadership, management, and organizational skills.

Crowder, a recipient of the WestRock Scholarship, serves as the vice president of the Pulp and Paper Advisory Board’s Student Advisory Committee and as the college representative for TAPPI.

In addition, Crowder is a a James Buzzard Leadership Development Fellow, university tour guide, resident advisor and a member of the University Honors Program.

Crowder currently works as a lab technician under Joel Pawlak, researching sustainable materials development and preparing for his first joint publication.

In the summer of 2024, Crowder served as an engineering intern at Smurfit Westrock’s mill in Dublin, Georgia, and this summer, he returned to the company’s corporate headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia as a supply chain intern.

“I had an incredible experience,” Crowder said. “I found myself deeply invested in the process, especially during the successful startup of our new $40-million winder. That summer made it clear that I love working in manufacturing; I wanted to broaden my perspective even further.”

NC State writer Emma Stuck recently spoke with Crowder about his decision to study paper science and engineering at the College of Natural Resources and what he hopes to accomplish going forward.

Why did you choose to study paper science and engineering?

Noah Crowder: Entering my senior year of high school, I was torn between studying chemical engineering and chemistry. Then, like many out-of-state students, I received an email inviting me to apply to the Super Scholars program. After looking into it, I was immediately hooked.

Paper science combined the two biggest things I was looking for in a college program. First, the coursework genuinely excited me. Second, I was blown away by the program’s industry connections and career outcomes. I committed to both paper science and engineering and NC State the same day I was accepted.

What is your favorite memory or class from your time at NC State?

Crowder: This past semester, I took PSE 371 with Lucian Lucia. While the material was incredibly interesting, it was also one of my more challenging classes. The day before our first exam, I realized I didn’t feel as prepared as I wanted to be. In most classes, I would have just pulled a late night. But because this was paper science, I tried something different.

I got a full night of sleep, and the next morning, I headed first thing to the TAPPI Lounge, hoping to find someone to study with. When I arrived, I found several other students working together on the same material. I jumped in, learning a lot and having a genuinely fun time doing it.

That morning really stuck with me. I showed up without a plan and immediately found a community of people – some close friends, some near strangers – eager to help. It might sound silly to call a study session my favorite memory, but it was the moment I fully realized just how special the paper science and engineering community is.

What are your career goals?

Crowder: I am passionate about bridging engineering and business operations to drive innovation in the pulp and paper industry. Looking ahead, I plan to start my career as a mill engineer, building a deeper understanding of mill operations and pinch points. Over time, I hope to pivot into mill and corporate finance and operations management roles.

Throughout my career, I want to be known as someone people can trust to do the right thing – leading with integrity, even when mistakes happen. Later in my career, I hope to return to the college as a professor and share my industry knowledge with the next generation of papermakers.

How has the College of Natural Resources prepared you for your future?

Crowder: This year, I had the incredible opportunity to join the James Buzzard Leadership Development Program, led by Jason Bocarro. More than anything, the program taught me what it truly means to be a leader.

Throughout the year, our cohort had the chance to meet with so many inspiring leaders across different industries, and nearly all of them emphasized the importance of building a strong network to lean on and grow with. Beyond the Buzzard Fellowship, the College of Natural Resources has given me access to world-class faculty and mentors who genuinely care about student success.

What advice would you give to students entering your major?

Crowder: Your approach to college needs to be twofold. First, say yes to everything. In your first two years at NC State, you’ll be presented with so many amazing opportunities – and I encourage you to go after every single one.

If a professor invites you to email them about their research, email them. If you see an open leadership position, apply for it. Taking every opportunity you can is the best way to build a reputation as someone dependable and form meaningful relationships with the people around you.

The second piece of advice, which I still struggle with, is that eventually, you have to start saying no. If things start falling off your plate – whether you’re missing deadlines or losing sleep – it’s a sign that you’ve said yes one too many times. There’s no shame in letting off the gas.

Tell us about something you are passionate about outside of your academic studies.

Crowder: In case I haven’t made it clear yet, I love people. There’s nothing I enjoy more than catching up with an old friend or meeting someone new. That’s one of the reasons I absolutely love being a university tour guide and a resident advisor.

I love meeting prospective students and sharing how much I love NC State. It’s incredibly rewarding to draw from my experiences and help guests imagine what their life here could look like. Whether it’s planning events, having one-on-one “Pack Chats,” or simply saying hello and checking in as I pass them in the hallway, I’m passionate about creating a space where students know they have someone they can lean on.