Federal Grant Provides Training to Wisconsin Workers

“This is a dynamic atmosphere where you don’t just hear about the changes going on – you are helping to create and shape them. It is our goal to work with you to develop your strengths, bolster your weaknesses, and take you further in a career than even you knew you were looking for. We are committed to creating a culture of Values for our employees, guided by our Vision to be the best.”

This quotation comes from the website of the NewPage Corporation’s website under “job opportunities.”    NewPage Corporation’s Wisconsin mill began in 1919 with a focus on fruit wrap, tissue, toweling and crepe paper.  Now, this plant in Stevens Point, Wisconsin is closed.  Its workers no longer have the opportunity boasted of on the website.  This is part of a series of paper mills closing in recent years.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced a $918,702 grant to provide training and job search services to about 175 workers affected by the closure of the NewPage Corp. paper mill in Stevens Point, Wis.

“The decline of Wisconsin’s paper manufacturing industry over the past few years has taken a toll on this community,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. “I am glad that my department can assist these former paper mill workers by providing the means for them to prepare for and find employment in Wisconsin’s growing industries, such as food manufacturing and health care.”

In December 2010, NewPage workers received notice of the pending closure of the Stevens Point paper mill. Layoffs began in January and continued through April 2011. The mill was a manufacturing facility for lightweight coated paper used by the publishing and printing industry.