As part of Manufacturing Month, seniors from Saline High School took an educational field trip to the International Paper (IP) mill in Mansfield, Louisiana, to get a firsthand look at the paper manufacturing process and explore potential career opportunities.

During the tour, students learned about the various stages of paper production, from raw materials to finished products, and gained insight into the wide range of skilled jobs available at the mill. The visit offered a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of one of the largest paper producers in the country.

“It was a great opportunity for our students to see how classroom knowledge connects to real-world industries,” said a school representative. “The IP team was welcoming and informative, and the students left with a much better understanding of how paper is made and the types of careers they could pursue.”

The field trip was part of a broader effort to expose students to local industries and promote interest in manufacturing careers. With the paper industry playing a key role in Louisiana’s economy, experiences like this help prepare students for life after graduation.