By: Emily Pedrick, PSE and ChE ’29

Throughout this summer, I served as a Production Intern on the paper machine at the Suzano Mill in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. I was responsible for optimizing availability and reducing downtime on the paper machine.

My role was particularly engaging because of the diversity of perspectives I encountered daily. With four rotating shifts on the paper machine, every week introduced me to a new team. Beyond the production floor, I appreciated the support of the office staff and those who volunteered to lead tours, involve me in lab work, and share insights into the broader papermaking process outside of the paper machine. 

A critical lesson I learned this summer was the unpredictable nature of industrial work. Each morning began with a safety briefing, emphasizing that our actions directly impact the safety of the entire environment. A mantra I frequently heard was, “The machine doesn’t have feelings.” This underscored the reality that operations—whether a sheet break, a power outage, or a weather event—are inherently volatile.

 Living in North Carolina most of my life, I had never seen so many signs for tornado shelters in one location, which made me even more constantly aware of weather conditions and patterns as we were in the heart of tornado alley. I’m also walking away with a much better sense of my surroundings. I thought I was observant before, but working in a manufacturing facility like this takes it to a different level. 

On a more personal note, I realized how much I love hiking. Even though the mill is in Pine Bluff, the team here was kind enough to have the interns stay in Little Rock, which was only an hour away from some amazing state parks. I spent a lot of my free time exploring places like Hot Springs and the Ozarks, which was a great way to recharge, and learn that I have more love for the outdoors, than what is at a ballpark, and the beach.

My biggest takeaway from this experience would definitely be to stay confident in myself, and to not be afraid to ask questions. The whole reason we go on internships before we graduate is to learn what simply cannot be taught in a lecture hall, and to bridge the connection between classroom and industry. Asking questions will not make you look uneducated, like most of us tend to fear. If anything it shows that we are willing to learn, to make mistakes, and to keep trying, which are qualities that people would much rather see in you.