John Pettus (far left), Director of Strategic Accounts at Wikoff Color Corp., and Ben Markens (center), PPC President, speak to the sold-out audience of PPC’s Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp at PPC Headquarters in Springfield, MA.

Springfield, MA – The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) successfully concluded its sold-out Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp, held on November 12-13, 2024, at PPC Headquarters in Springfield, Massachusetts. The immersive two-day event offered participants a comprehensive educational experience, seamlessly combining technical insights, hands-on learning, and expert-led discussions. Attendees gained a deep understanding of the folding carton industry, exploring topics such as material selection, production techniques, sustainability practices, and the latest innovations.

PPC’s Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp featured a distinguished lineup of industry leaders who brought a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives. Steve Rote, Technical Director at Metsä Board Americas Corporation, shared his 45+ years of experience in the printing and packaging industries, emphasizing the importance of technical training for corrugated box and folding carton plants. Aaron Stull, Midwest Sales and Marketing Professional at Integrity Fiber, offered insights into recycling innovation, drawing from his 19 years of experience in the industry. Rich Machovina, Director of Sales Operations at Graphic Packaging International, discussed his extensive career in sales and quality assurance, while Jennifer Lechlitner, Technical Services Manager at Graphic Packaging International’s Kalamazoo Mill, provided a detailed look into product quality and mill operations.

The sessions also included Susie Stitzel, Director of Product Management for Design and 3D Solutions at Esko, who explored structural design, workflow optimization, and color theory. Eric Frank, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Koenig & Bauer North America, provided insights into printing processes, rotary cutting, and cold foil applications, drawing from his four decades in the industry. John Pettus, Director of Strategic Accounts at Wikoff Color Corp., showcased his expertise in a variety of ink and coating technologies. Harold Leete, Sales Account Manager at Bobst North America, shared expertise in litho laminating, digital die-cutting, and hot foil applications, while Travis Moellers of CTI Cutting Dies emphasized the importance of precision tooling. Kirsty Drury, Application Engineer at Henkel Corporation, highlighted advancements in adhesives, and Gayle Harrop, Executive Vice President at Tamarack Products Inc., explored window patching technology. Bill Rice, Product Manager at Heidelberg USA Inc., brought his expertise in folder gluers and carton styles, while Erich Murray of TPC Printing + Packaging delved into the production of rigid boxes.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in sessions designed to provide a holistic understanding of the industry. These included an overview of the $10 billion paperboard packaging market in the U.S. and Canada, an exploration of growth trends, and an examination of the sustainability initiatives driving the industry forward, including innovations in recycling and forestry practices. The industry’s commitment to planting five trees for every one harvested has resulted in a 49% increase in tree populations over the last 50 years. Sessions also explored the potential of cutting-edge technologies like 3D fiber products, which offer biodegradable solutions to replace plastics in packaging.

Technical expertise was at the heart of PPC’s Boot Camp event. Participants learned about the intricacies of papermaking, gaining a greater appreciation for processes like pulping, refining, and coating, as well as the unique properties of various paperboard grades, including Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS), Folding Boxboard (FBB), and Coated Recycled Board (CRB). The event also featured hands-on sessions exploring folder gluer operations and the transformation of flat blanks into sophisticated cartons. Attendees explored modular designs, advanced quality control measures, and the application of innovative technologies like image inspection modules and extrusion gluing systems. Discussions on rigid box fundamentals showcased the durability, reusability, and luxury aesthetics that these packages bring to premium markets like cosmetics, electronics, and specialty foods.

Reflecting on Folding Carton Boot Camp’s success, PPC President Ben Markens remarked, “Our Fall Folding Carton Boot Camp wasn’t just about learning the mechanics of folding cartons—it was about inspiring a new wave of professionals to lead the industry forward. By equipping them with the technical expertise and strategic insights they need, we are building a foundation for a sustainable and innovative future in paperboard packaging.”

To support their learning journey, attendees received a comprehensive binder containing over 20 technical presentations, the 2023-24 Trends Industry Outlook & Market Data Report Summary by Fast Markets RISI, and samples of various paperboard types. Practical tools like printer’s loupes and color quizzes allowed participants to apply their knowledge directly, making the experience both engaging and impactful.

As Folding Carton Boot Camp concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence in their roles within the paperboard packaging industry. The experience resonated deeply with participants, many of whom expressed their enthusiasm for applying their newfound knowledge. Jeffrey Zelman of Baker-Titan Adhesives shared, “I’ve taken in so much during this Boot Camp. I feel more equipped than ever to engage with customers, dive deeper into their concerns, and even have meaningful conversations with printing managers—something I never thought I’d be able to do.”

With the Spring 2025 Folding Carton Boot Camp already scheduled for next May, PPC remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and professional growth for its members.

For more information about the Paperboard Packaging Council and upcoming events, visit www.paperbox.org.