TAPPI has launched a new division to reflect the important and growing contributions of women professionals to TAPPI and the industry. The Women in Industry Division’s focus is to inspire and support the development of women in the pulp, paper, packaging, tissue, converting, and associated forest products industries. Representing approximately 15% of TAPPI’s membership, the new division includes more than 175 dynamic professionals who have driven its growth.

"Having operated as a committee under the PIMA banner since 2015, we are thrilled to increase our TAPPI footprint to the division level where we will continue to expand awareness about issues particular to women," said Division Chair Pam Cowan. "It is our express goal to work toward strengthening our industry through encouraging the participation of women at all levels with the active involvement of both women and men in that dialog. Stay tuned.....there’s a lot to come!"

Larry N. Montague, president and CEO of TAPPI, said that "women are an important and growing component of the industry’s leadership and many already serve with great distinction on numerous TAPPI committees in key leadership roles. This new division recognizes the significant contributions women have been making to the industry for years, while also providing a framework to support the continued growth of diversity and inclusion."

Major goals for the Women in Industry Division include: developing strategies, tools, and resources to help women advance in their careers; creating networking and educational opportunities across all divisions and groups; and identifying and celebrating successful women leaders in the community.

The new division reflects the energy and high level of activity members have engaged in across a wide range of areas. Activities include creating program content at conferences, developing resources such as a benchmarking survey on women in the industry, creation of a mentoring program, and successful collaboration on important industry issues.