Ahlstrom collaborates with Trees For Tomorrow to inspire next generation of papermakers

Ahlstrom’s Rhinelander paper mill welcomed 22 high school students from throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan in partnership with Trees For Tomorrow’s Natural Resource Career Exploration Week (NRCEW) held June 8-13.
Ahlstrom staff hosted a half-day program that included an overview of the Rhinelander plant, including samples of the products the plant produces. In addition, students observed the manufacturing process during a plant tour and participated in a hands-on papermaking activity highlighting how different professions impact each step of the papermaking process.
“Papermaking requires knowledge from a wide variety of backgrounds including engineering, supply chain management, R&D, and machine maintenance and operation to name a few,” said Dan McGreaham, plant manager. “During their visit, we wanted to educate high school students about the paper industry, highlight its many opportunities and that it is a viable pathway to establishing a rewarding career.” McGreaham continued.
Trees For Tomorrow is an accredited nonprofit environmental education center specializing in overnight Student Outdoor Learning Experiences for K-12 school groups from Wisconsin and surrounding Great Lakes states. Through the June NRCEW program, the organization hosted a wide variety of career exploration activities for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who are interested in exploring a career in all aspects of natural resource management, including learning from industry professionals and a Pathway Fair.
“Opportunities like this are game changers for students. Getting to step inside a paper mill, ask questions, and see natural resource careers in action makes the future feel real,” said Cheryl Todea, executive director of Trees For Tomorrow. “We’re so grateful to Ahlstrom—a close neighbor and proud member of our board of directors—for helping us create these experiences that spark curiosity and inspire career paths,” Todea continued.
This year’s program is the 59th NRCEW organized by Trees For Tomorrow that is held annually in Eagle River.