Leading Training Providers Earn TAPPI REP Distinction.

ATLANTA -- A dozen leading training providers have earned the TAPPI Recognized Education Provider (REP) distinction by complying with stringent program criteria designed to recognize and encourage high quality continuing education for the global pulp, paper, and converting industries. This new industry-sanctioned program was developed by the industry for the industry, in collaboration with more than sixty training and education stakeholders.

As of February 7, 2005, the following companies are TAPPI Recognized Education Providers:

The Alabama Technology Network

AMEC Training & Development Services

Application Solutions Group, L.L.C,

Atkins, Inc.

Avtron Manufacturing, Inc.

Kestrel Management Services, LLC 

George Pemble Consulting

Managed Reliability, LLC

North Carolina State University Department of Wood and Paper Science

Paragon Worldwide

PERC Communications

University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

"We heard the industry demand for credible training resources and we responded with the TAPPI REP," explained Bob Caron, TAPPI Vice President - Pulp and Paper. "Clearly the TAPPI REP program is fulfilling a need in our industry. In just a few months since its launch, the TAPPI REP program has recognized 12 providers and listed more than 30 courses on the REP web site. Course topics (including improving operations, troubleshooting, maintenance, leadership, health & safety, environment, energy, quality, and customer relations) reflect a wide breadth of core competencies needed to stay competitive, and are targeted to hourly and salaried workers alike."

The searchable REP web site (www.tappi.org/REP) is easily navigated and enables training leaders to quickly identify and contact REPs. One of TAPPI's newest REPs, Kestrel Management Services, LLC stated: "We learned of the program through TAPPI's website. Kestrel has several clients in the pulp and paper industry, and TAPPI's website is a useful industry resource in order to utilize the TAPPI network and credibility to widen the awareness of our training services throughout the pulp and paper industry. We submitted an application in order to strengthen our industry credibility. TAPPI's 'stamp of approval' will help achieve this goal."

Organizations that offer training and education can differentiate themselves as high quality providers by earning the TAPPI REP designation. Additional information is available by contacting Shirley Barton at TAPPI (770 209 7525 or [e-mail]) or by visiting www.tappi.org/REP for details.