Technologically Advanced Workforce (TAW) Initiative Formed

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At least 30 percent of variation in profitability can be explained by human performance. To help to improve profitability the Technologically Advanced Workforce (TAW) initiative was formed. It is one of the key focus areas of Agenda 2020 and governance of this program is provided by TAPPI. A key part of the TAW is the National Network for Pulp and Paper Technology Training (NPT)2. NPT2 is a national network of community colleges that produce technicians specifically skilled for the pulp, paper, and allied industries. The objective of this initiative is to provide training and education to ensure that the technologies chosen to create the forest products industry of the future are operated, maintained, and managed by a technically superior workforce that is globally competitive.

For more about NPT2 see the November/December issue of Paper 360.

On September 23 the TAW Executive Advisory Board had its first meeting. In attendance were (pictured from left to right) Curtis Sears, MWV; Keith Romig, United Steelworkers; Cindy Reinhart, Metso; Andrea Harper, Georgia Department of Labor; and T. J. Murphy, NPT2; present but not pictured were Larry N. Montague, Mary Beth Cornell, and David Bell from TAPPI. Members who have agreed to serve but were not present include Ellsworth Townsend, Packaging Corp. of America; John Donahue, SAPPI Fine Paper N.A. and Lyle Fellows, Verso Paper. Find out more information about the TAW.