International Paper Connects WCCS Students with Career Opportunities
by Jessica Knox
November 4, 2026
Wallace Community College Selma connected technical students with industry professionals Tuesday, November 3, 2026, during a guest speaker session featuring representatives from International Paper.
Held at 10:00 a.m. in the Industrial Maintenance Classroom on the WCCS campus, the session focused on career opportunities, workplace expectations, and the steps involved in pursuing employment with the company.
Students enrolled in the Electrical, Industrial Maintenance, and Welding programs were encouraged to attend and learn how their classroom training connects with careers in industry.
Learning directly from industry professionals
The visiting team included Pam Frasier, Mill Learning Leader; Meg Wishart, HR Business Leader; Chase Stone, Mechanical Precision Maintenance Trainer; Ben Ray, Electrical Precision Maintenance Trainer; and Adam Crovato, Electrical Precision Maintenance.
Students hear about International Paper during the campus visit.
A representative shares information about the company's history.
Representatives discussed International Paper's history, operations, and career opportunities. They emphasized that success in the workplace requires strong technical abilities alongside effective communication, dependability, teamwork, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.
A student listens during the guest speaker session.
A student follows the discussion about industry careers.
Understanding the path to employment
The session also gave students an overview of International Paper's application and hiring process. Representatives walked through the steps involved in pursuing employment, helping students understand what to expect as they prepare to enter the workforce. They also highlighted the company's competitive wages and opportunities for rewarding careers.
Visitors and WCCS personnel connect in the technical training area.
Students attend the International Paper presentation.
A student perspective on opportunity
In an interview following the session, a WCCS student reflected on how the college has helped him prepare for his future.
"They have given me the opportunity to come learn different types of crafts and trades that I can use to better help myself," he said.
When asked why others should consider Wallace, he pointed to its proximity to home.
"You don't really have to travel much far to try to make a decent living," he said.
Building connections from the classroom to careers
The WCCS Job Placement Office works to bridge education and employment by cultivating partnerships with local industries. These connections help students explore career pathways, understand workplace expectations, and make informed decisions about their futures.
WCCS thanks the International Paper team for sharing its time and expertise and supporting workforce development and student success.
Through opportunities that connect learning with employment, Wallace Community College Selma continues its commitment to Building Pathways. Creating Opportunities. Changing Lives.
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International Paper Connects WCCS Students with Career Opportunities