by: Ethan Wolff, PSE/CHE ’28

On Wednesday, September 2, the Pulp and Paper Advisory Board hosted the annual Paper Industry Career Fair at NC State’s Talley Student Union. The three-hour event brought together students, returning alumni, and industry recruiters for an energetic afternoon focused on networking and hiring.

While built around the Paper Science and Engineering (PSE) program, the fair also drew students from chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering as well as Department of Forest Biomaterials graduate students. Major employers filled the room, led by key event sponsors Smurfit Westrock and Kemira. Recruiters arrived ready to source talent for paid summer internships, co-op rotations and full-time engineering positions.

For students, the real value of an event like this goes far beyond just handing out resumes. Days before stepping into the ballroom, many took advantage of resume reviews and interview prep workshops. Putting those skills to work in front of company reps builds genuine confidence. The fair gives underclassmen a low-pressure environment to practice professional communication, while upperclassmen turn classroom concepts and experience into potential job offers.

Recruiters regularly highlight how much they appreciate this event, noting that PSE students show up unusually well-prepared and knowledgeable about the industry. The three-hour window gave attendees enough flexibility to fit the event between classes and labs, and the high-energy setup kickstarting the fall hiring season. By the end of the day, many students walked away with virtual or on-campus interviews scheduled for later in the week.

Beyond open positions, the fair serves as a key gathering for the broader PSE community. A strong turnout of alumni returned to campus to recruit for their companies, reconnect with former professors, and share practical career advice with younger students. Seeing graduates return in leadership and hiring roles reinforces the real-world value of the PSE degree and gives underclassmen a clear picture of where the program can take them.

From freshmen navigating their first career fair to seniors finalizing their post-graduation plans, the 2026 event delivered solid outcomes across the board. Thank you to our corporate sponsors, visiting alumni and dedicated faculty whose efforts make this event possible year after year.