A new program on paperboard packaging introduced by Blue Ridge College

Alex Todd

In the history of North America, for the first time ever, Blue Ridge Community College is opening a new horizon in the field of paperboard packaging materials by introducing a certificate program.

Flat Cardboard
By enrolling in the college’s 17-credit program, students will be provided with the training requisite for working in the corrugated and paperboard packaging industry. Many employers in the Shenandoah Valley like Staunton’s Carded Graphics provide these services.

Bob Young, the Vice President of the college, who is responsible for instruction and student services, confirms that this initiative wouldn’t have been launched had the area companies involved in packaging not offered their support for it.

Young added that the program was launched after Blue Ridge officials, including him, discovered the importance of the packaging industry and realised the hard time the companies face while finding skilled employees in the domain.

Young was upbeat about this program’s success as he said it would help bridge the gap between the rising demand and the lack of skilled employees, who know the entire process, right from the start to the end.

He added that despite master’s and bachelor’s degrees in box design and packaging offered by colleges, a program that trains someone on how to run and take care of equipment was difficult to find.

What This Program in Paperboard Packaging Entails
Blue Ridge’s program will offer classes in CAD (Computer Aided Design) and industrial methods. Students attending this program will learn about packaging, dye-cutting, folding and glueing.

To empower the students with practical knowledge, Blue Ridge has even hired a faculty member from the paperboard packaging and manufacturing industry.

Murry Pits, the CEO/President of Carded Graphics, which is a leading manufacturer in the field of paperboard packaging and folding cartons, said that students will learn the fundamentals of this industry in the certificate program.

He also added that the program has been designed in a certain manner that will help the students be fully prepared for the practical field.

Pitts is optimistic about this program and hopes this “first time ever” course in North America to become widely acclaimed.

To make the students fully prepared for the practical field, Blue Ridge will make the last class an internship at Carded Graphics, Supply One in Weyers Cave, or Packaging Corporation of America in Harrisonburg.

This certificate program is also supported by companies like InterChange Group, Inc. in Harrisonburg and A.G. Stacker, Inc. in Weyers Cave.

Why Is it Important?
The certificate program in paperboard packaging is essential for several reasons. First, it equips students with the technical knowledge needed to work in the sector. Second, the program allows students to learn about the latest developments in paperboard technology. Finally, it also gives students the ability to network with other business people in the field.

By completing the certificate program, students will be able to find jobs in many different sectors of the paperboard packaging market. Additionally, they can expand their careers by pursuing postgraduate degrees in paperboard technology. As a result, the certificate program in paperboard packaging is an essential step for anyone interested in a career in this growing industry.

Here are two important market factors why programs in paperboard packaging:

Resiliency of Paperboard Packaging
Though many industries have suffered in the wake of the pandemic, the paper packaging market has remained strong. This is due in part to the essential nature of paper packaging – after all, even in a global recession, people still need to eat and drink.

But the stability of the paper packaging market also reflects a broader trend: an increasing focus on sustainable packaging. With a particular emphasis where paper is concerned on USDA certified biobased credentials.

As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their choices, they are increasingly choosing paper packaging over plastic. This is fantastic news for the paper business, which is predicted to continue expanding in the upcoming years. So even in these uncertain times, the future looks bright for paper packaging.

Ongoing Demand for Safe Packaging
These days, going green is a hot topic of discussion. This is not surprising, especially with climate change and pollution making headlines daily. More and more people are beginning to realize the importance of protecting our planet.

One easy way is to be mindful of using some packaging. Globally, consumers are becoming aware of the environmental risks associated with packaging. Some are moving their purchasing habits and choosing environmentally friendly options.

Everyone may greatly reduce their carbon footprint by using recyclable or reusable packaging. Moreover, many sustainable packaging options are just as stylish and functional as their conventional counterparts.

The Blue Ridge College Paperboard Packaging Program is a cutting-edge program that is sure to benefit the environment and the economy. The program aims to reduce waste in carton board packaging and increase recycling rates.

By working with local businesses, the program will help to create jobs and to reduce the environmental impact of paper production. In addition, the program will help to educate students about the importance of paperboard packaging and the benefits of recycling.

With its innovative approach, the Blue Ridge College Paperboard Packaging Program is sure to make a positive impact on the community. To read more about its program, you can check site.

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