Keeping pulp and paper foundations relevant.

Many schools that offer degrees in fields relating to pulp and paper have foundations. An important task of these foundations has been recruitment of high school students with good records in science and mathematics to enroll in studies leading to a degree in some area of pulp and paper.

For example, the University of Maine invites 60 high school juniors to its Summer Engineering Camp to participate in a program whose theme is "Consider Engineering." Using subtle and overt methods, the university tries to recruit these students to become students at the school to study engineering and consider a career in the paper industry. At the camp, students learn about various engineering disciplines. A paper mill tour gives participants a first-hand experience about the role of paper engineers. The students also meet practicing engineers during panel discussions and lectures. Students also compete in an "I am an Engineer Game," complete an engineering construction project, undertake a laboratory project, and close the camp with PowerPoint presentations to family and friends.

Does a program of this type provide any value today? Should pulp and paper foundations continue to run such programs? At the University of Maine, the answer to both questions definitely seems to be yes. Many students from the Summer Engineering Camp enter the College of Engineering at the University of Maine and apply for a Pulp and Paper Foundation scholarship.

A LONG HERITAGE

Fifty-three years ago, a group of paper industry executives gathered at the University of Maine to discuss the art of making paper and the impact of science on that art. Their vision of the need for paper engineers resulted in the establishment of the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation. Over the past year, some current paper industry executives have reexamined the vision and mission of the original group. They readily concluded that the intent of the foundation should remain as originally conceived. These executives also recognized the need to think more globally and be more responsive to various engineering disciplines.

In addition, the examining group recognized that the demand for new graduates has declined over the past several years. The executives nevertheless noted that demographics define a time 3 to 5 years hence where demand will increase substantially as "baby boomers" retire. Many problems relating to energy consumption, environmental protection, recycling, water use, forest management, continuous improvement, and similar topics require solution. Competition for tint best engineering graduates from other industries is increasing. All these factors indicate the need for new graduates with expertise in the paper industry.

As the Pulp and Paper Foundation of the University of Maine seeks new members, current members are quantifying the value that foundations offer the paper industry. The mission is clear--provide a steady stream of quality engineers for the paper industry. Although this is sufficient to encourage membership, the key to membership is participation within the foundation. By serving on various committees, foundation members can help in the selection of students that receive scholarships, shape and direct the curriculum, and review students. Paper executives can exchange views with key suppliers at various functions in a congenial and relaxed atmosphere. Companies that participate in co-op programs can directly benefit from low cost engineering skills and preview future employees in the working environment. In the hiring process, the value of this benefit far exceeds an annual member gift.

Several leading consultants and analysts anticipate a steady growth of demand for paper products. Continued consolidation and rationalization should make markets more efficient. Technology will continue to facilitate this change. Engineers are necessary for all facets of the paper and related industries. Demographics indicate that the support of paper industry foundations may be more critical now than ever before. For true effectiveness, the model that defines foundation membership needs changing. Foundation members also need to become more active in foundation programs in support of future engineering needs. S!

About the author: Peter Duncan is the executive director of the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation. He has worked in paper and paper related fields and has served in various capacities such as technical service, marketing, sales and general management He has worked at various levels, from fifth hand on a paper machine to division president of a major minerals supplier to the paper industry,