TAPPI caught up with Scott LeBeau, resident mill manager with Graphic Packaging International in Kalamazoo, Mich., USA, to ask him what he felt was important to managing a successful mill. Scott shared his insights as well as explained how PaperCon  has been helpful in helping him achieve his goals.

S: One needs clear goals and expectations and must maintain open and constant communication. Regular measurement of progress and the ability to adjust when things are not on track are vital. Also, understanding the core competencies of your team and being aware of your blind spots are necessary as well as good listening skills. 

S: Filling the pipeline of talent. As we have turnover and openings, it is challenging to find strong candidates in a timely manner, where you get a fit for both them and the organization. 

S: A couple of things stick out--the PIMA management sessions have been insightful. Most of the people who have gone have commented on the value of those sessions including the roundtables. A lot of recent focus has been on retaining young professionals and making sure they’re engaged. Everyone is focused on retaining and attracting good young talent. 

The exhibit is a good opportunity to stroll around and get a good idea of what’s new and going on from a technology standpoint. We don’t get time to talk to vendors at our own facilities in that kind of way, so it’s a great format. The social aspect is important as well. 

PaperCon 2017 will be celebrating its 10th anniversary on April 23-26, 2017, in Minneapolis, Minn.  As the world’s largest technical conference for the paper and packaging industry, PaperCon includes more than 150 technical presentations offered within 9 different tracks: Papermaking-Best Practices, Papermaking Additives, Coating & Graphic Arts, Nonwovens (NETInc), Process Control & Fluid Fundamentals, Recycled Paperboard Technical Association (RPTA) Production Technical Seminar, Management (PIMA), Maintenance & Reliability, and Tutorials.  PaperCon’s technical program also includes panels, roundtables, and a hot topic breakfast that allow you to engage in discussions with other industry professionals and experts.  

Get more details about each presentation, speakers, panel members, and success story contributors.  

PaperCon 2017 also offers you the opportunity to network with Paper and Packaging Professionals from 32-plus different countries.  This is a great time for you to meet key industry leaders and other industry professionals and build new business relationships.  

Get more to get more details about the networking events at PaperCon.

Registration is now open. Take advantage of the Early Bird Discount and register by March 24.