The corrugated packaging industry has a high placement rate, competitive compensation, and tremendous advancement potential. With more than 100,000 workers operating out of over 1,100 manufacturing plants, the industry is always looking for new talent. That’s why ICPF has created resources to increase student awareness to the corrugated packaging industry. Educators and employers alike can use this information to educate students on the impact a #CareerInCorrugated can have on their lives.
Celebrate MFG Day in Your Community
Held the first Friday in October each year, MFG Day, developed in partnership with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the Manufacturing Institute (MI), encourages thousands of companies and educational institutions nationwide to open their doors to students, parents, educators and community leaders, fostering an in-depth understanding of the rewarding and high-paying careers available in modern manufacturing.
Access ready-made toolkits designed for you to use as you plan an event, invite your community, or spread the word on social media.
In 2024, ICPF celebrated MFG Day alongside The Manufacturing Institute, an affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers – NAM, as a Bronze Sponsor. On Friday, October 4, the foundation visited Modesto, CA and co-hosted 36 students from Ceres High School’s Manufacturing, Production, and Green Technology (MPGT) Academy at Pacific Southwest Container. During the event, students toured the plant floor, met with current corrugated packaging employees, and more. Watch the video to learn more about our MFG Day celebration.
Introduce Future Students to the Packaging Industry: Build a Corrugated Phone Case with ICPF Toolkit
ICPF has created an accessible, hands-on activity where middle and high school students can design, build, and test a phone case using only corrugated materials. This project, approved and refined by educators and career counselors, not only showcases the versatility and sustainability of corrugated packaging but also allows the next generation of talent to explore the creative and practical applications of the packaging industry. Use the link below to access a complete slide deck including:
- Activity instructions
- ICPF’s industry highlight video
- Industry & career-related information
- A QR code to help students stay connected!
ICPF Webinar: Prioritizing Sustainability in the Corrugated Packaging Industry
ICPF partnered with Rachel Kenyon, Fibre Box Association Senior Vice President, to host a live webinar opportunity for packaging students and instructors to discuss the ways in which the corrugated packaging industry continues to prioritize sustainability through science-based goals and innovation. Rachel shared results from the industry’s latest life cycle assessment (LCA) and outlined the benefits of working for an industry committed to making positive change for our world. Please access the recording to share a learning opportunity with students. The 30-minute presentation is followed by a live Q&A session with Rachel Kenyon and our participants.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
ICPF connects interested schools with industry resources to increase student exposure to the corrugated packaging industry. This could include finding a guest speaker to educate students on the corrugated packaging industry or scheduling a tour for students at a nearby plant. This opportunity is open to middle school, high school, trade/vocational school, or college students.
Please complete this form to get connected with ICPF and set up an experiential learning opportunity for your students. You will receive a response from one of our team members within 1-2 business days of your form submission.