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Inspiring Graduate: Austin Pratt, B.S. Packaging

giffeyt — Thu, 21 May 2026 15:31:30 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Austin Pratt, B.S. Packaging giffeyt May 21, 2026

Hired before graduation at Smurfit Westrock

Inspiring Graduate: Austin Pratt (’26)

Hometown: Lakeville, Minnesota
Degree: B.S. Packaging

��Ͽ� provided the right package of industry oriented-education, athletic dedication and family connection for Austin Pratt, who followed his siblings’ footsteps to earn a B.S. packaging degree.

After five seasons playing junior hockey in Canada, Pratt came to ��Ͽ�, where he completed three professional internships – with Menasha Packaging, Imagine Printing Solutions and DDL Inc. – one of which even allowed him to collaborate on a project with his sister that created retail displays for Hormel Foods products in Costco stores. Pratt was also a member of the football team for two years and was a student coach for the Blue Devils hockey team, which reached the Frozen Four during their most recent season.

Inspiring Graduate Austin Pratt is congratulated by Chancellor Katherine Frank at the May 16, 2026, ��Ͽ� commencement.

“Football taught me how to persevere through challenging times while coaching taught me how to be a leader,” said Pratt, one of 1,067 Blue Devils who received degrees during the May 16 spring commencement ceremonies. Of this year’s graduates, 77.4% were hired prior to graduation, while 99% of recent graduates were employed or furthering their education within six months of graduation.

Pratt, of Lakeville, Minnesota, is among the large majority of Blue Devils hired before graduation: He accepted a job at Smurfit Westrock as a packaging sales representative. He credits ��Ͽ�’s applied learning environment with preparing him for his career.

“��Ͽ� has given me, and a lot of other students, a place where we can really be ourselves. One thing I like most is how flexible it is – you can be as involved in whatever you want. If you’re into clubs, sports, or campus activities, there are tons of opportunities,” he said “Overall, it’s a welcoming environment where you can shape your own college experience, with support from both professors and other students along the way.”

What brought you to ��Ͽ�?

After my career in the Western Hockey League, my sister and brother graduated from ��Ͽ� with packaging degrees. They both have successful jobs in the packaging industry, so I thought that would be a great career path for me, too.

My sister, Ashley, works for Hormel Foods as a senior packaging scientist and my brother, Justin, works for Central Packaging and Display as a medical packaging engineer and in sales.

How do you hope to make an impact in your field?

I want to make an impact in the packaging field by providing knowledge I learned while attending ��Ͽ�. My hands-on experience in my packaging classes, along with being a lab assistant, has shaped my understanding of different packaging materials and equipment.

How has ��Ͽ� prepared you to work in your field?

The course work that is taught in the packaging program relates directly to the field and areas of packaging that you can work in. After the intro class, the others moving forward taught about specialized areas of packaging. The capstone classes use all the information and experiences to create solutions for real companies. At the capstone level, our groups came with a wide range of knowledge from packaging classes and co-op experience.

In the Packaging Distribution Class, I did a store walk-through to locate pallets that are being used in industry. At the store, I took measurements and pictures and collected information regarding the pallets. I used that information to go back to the Packaging Lab to scale down and rebuild the pallet to test the compression strength. This taught me that there are many different pallets and pallet patterns used in industry and each one has a specific use.

What were your greatest lessons or projects you were involved in during your internships with DDL, Imagine Printing and Menasha Packaging?

I have completed three internships. My first internship was with DDL Inc. as a packaging intern. We did distribution, integrity and aging testing for medical packaging.

My second internship was with Imagine Printing Solutions as a creative design intern. I worked with companies like Starbucks, Marshalls, etc. For one project, I designed Christmas decorations that went into Starbucks stores.

My last internship was with Menasha Packaging as a structural design intern. This internship was my favorite due to being able to work with my sister at Hormel Foods, helping design Costco display-ready case projects for the Columbus Brand. This made my decision to attend Stout come full circle and was a unique experience that many other students here would not be able to have.

Austin Pratt, right, during his time on the Blue Devil football team. / Submitted photo

What stands out about your ��Ͽ� experience?

My professors – Mary Paz Alvarez Valverde, Kate Liu and Min DeGruson – were amazing during my time at Stout. They have made my experience at Stout exceptional. They care for the students that attend their classes, wanting to see them succeed. They work hard to set up each class to be in line with what is happening in the packaging industry. They work with great companies to ensure what they’re teaching in the classroom aligns with industry. This allows students to be set up for success after graduation.

How did your campus involvement impact your experience?

I was a student assistant coach with the ��Ͽ� men’s hockey team for five years. Being able to coach great athletes over the last five years has made my time at Stout more memorable, especially this year with the team making the Final Four.

I was also on the football team for the first two years I attended Stout. During that time, I was able to meet lifelong friends. Football taught me how to persevere through challenging times while coaching taught me how to be a leader and build up others when they are going through challenging times in their own lives.

Austin Pratt, far right, stands with other Blue Devil hockey coaches while holding the 2026 WIAC Men's Ice Hockey Tournament trophy. / Photo by Owen Segna

What challenges did you face in earning your degree, and how did you overcome them?

Learning how to balance all my course work with playing football and coaching was challenging. Once I was able to set my schedule and knew my allotted time for studying, it really made a difference. Managing your time in school helps translate to the real world by allowing you to set schedules and determine project priorities.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I am proud of my ability to persevere through challenging times. Many students encounter obstacles in college that are entirely new to them, including rigorous coursework and personal challenges. Remaining focused, disciplined, and determined in the face of these difficulties requires a high level of commitment, and I take pride in successfully maintaining that dedication.

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Hired before graduation at Absolut Manufacturing

Hired before graduation at Smurfit Westrock Inspiring Graduate Austin Pratt and Chancellor Katherine Frank

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B.S. Packaging

Our B.S. Packaging program provides hands-on training in package printing and design, business, quality management, and research and development.

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Distinguished alum, educator Albrecht credits ��Ͽ� for preparing graduates who ‘step forward’

Student speakers at May 16 ceremonies encourage peers to act with compassion, courage, and to continue learning

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Inspiring Graduate: Makenna Lowell, B.S. Packaging

giffeyt — Thu, 21 May 2026 15:30:00 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Makenna Lowell, B.S. Packaging giffeyt May 21, 2026

Hired before graduation at Midwest Packaging and Container

Inspiring Graduate: Makenna Lowell (’26)

Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
Degree: B.S. Packaging
Minors: Sustainability

When it came to choosing a path after high school, Makenna Lowell knew exactly what degree she wanted to get and where she wanted to get it. As a student fascinated by both engineering and art, “Packaging felt like the perfect blend of those two passions,” Lowell said.

After learning about the packaging field during her older brother’s college search, Lowell was drawn to the packaging program at ��Ͽ�, one of the few U.S. universities to offer a packaging major. Lowell appreciated the fact that ��Ͽ�’s packaging program was part of the Robert F. Cervenka School of Engineering, which gave her an opportunity to take engineering-focused prerequisites.

Furthermore, ��Ͽ�’s status as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University meant that Lowell could work with industry-standard equipment in on-campus labs while also pursuing off-campus cooperative opportunities within industry. Lowell applied her knowledge during co-ops at Kimberly-Clark and Ocean Spray Cranberries, in the latter instance completing a project that saved the company a projected $200,000.

Lowell was one of 1,067 Blue Devils who received degrees during the May 16 spring commencement ceremonies. Of this year’s graduates, 77.4% were hired prior to graduation, a group that includes Lowell: She’ll soon begin her career as a structural designer at Midwest Packaging and Container in Rockford, Illinois.

Outside the classroom, Lowell was both a leader in the Student Packaging Association and a campus tour guide with the Admissions Office. “Not only did I get to meet many great people, but the role significantly strengthened my public speaking, communication and time-management skills,” she said. “I always appreciated being treated as a student first, and the Admissions team was incredibly understanding and supportive of my academic schedule.”

What brought you to ��Ͽ�?

In high school, I loved both engineering and art. I completed the pre-engineering program and took ceramics, graphic design and other creative courses. Packaging felt like the perfect blend of those two passions. After researching the handful of universities that offer packaging programs, I toured several and ultimately chose ��Ͽ� for a few key reasons. The first is that the packaging program is housed under the School of Engineering, allowing me to take engineering-focused general education courses. Second, I liked Stout’s polytechnic focus and hands-on learning style. Third, I liked the mid-size of Stout because I didn’t want to be just another number. I love that I know most of the people in my major and I can build meaningful relationships with my professors.

How do you hope to make an impact in your field?

Sustainability has always been my driving force. I only wanted to enter the packaging industry if I could help make it more sustainable, and I hope to continue pushing the field toward environmentally responsible solutions.

How has ��Ͽ� prepared you to work in your field?

Stout’s polytechnic approach has been invaluable. I’ve gained hands-on experience with packaging equipment, testing methods and design software. Beyond coursework, Stout encouraged me to get involved. I’ve been a tour guide, lab tech, teaching assistant and president of our industry-affiliated Stout Packaging Association student organization. I’ve also attended numerous industry events, which significantly expanded my professional network.

What were the greatest lessons or projects you were involved in during your co-ops at Kimberly-Clark and Ocean Spray?

My first co-op was at Kimberly-Clark in Neenah, working on their baby and childcare team as a packaging engineering intern. I worked on optimization projects, competitor analysis, distribution testing and more. It was my first industry experience, and it helped me connect classroom concepts to real-world applications.

My second packaging engineering co-op in the food packaging industry was at Ocean Spray Cranberries in Lakeville, Massachusetts. One of my favorite projects was leading a new supplier qualification for paperboard cartons. I planned the trial, attended it independently, and validated a new carton that contributed roughly $200,000 in projected annual savings. My biggest takeaway was the importance of clear communication both across departments and with external partners.

What stands out about your ��Ͽ� experience?

What stands out to me about my ��Ͽ� experience is my packaging professors and labs. Because the program is small, the professors are deeply invested in our success. They’ve supported me at every step, inside and outside the classroom.

The labs have also been incredibly valuable. I’ve worked with nearly all the equipment, including manufacturing machines, material testers, and distribution testers, which has prepared me well for full-time work.

It’s More than a Package: ��Ͽ� packaging program to host international student-led conference

Pack Jam invites industry, alumni, community to see fresh ideas April 7-9

Were you involved in any clubs or organizations? How did your involvement impact your experience?

I was heavily involved in the Stout Packaging Association, our student-led, industry-affiliated club. From sophomore year through my fifth year, I served on the executive board, eventually becoming president. This involvement allowed me to attend industry events across the country, grow my network and meeting incredible people.

I’m also grateful for the Stout Foundation Scholarships and multiple industry scholarships I received. Their support motivated me to keep striving for excellence.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I’m most proud of the community I’ve built. From packaging peers and professors to industry professionals, tour guides, roommates, and friends, I’ve surrounded myself with people who have shaped my college experience in ways I never expected, in a place I never expected to be.

Inspiring Graduates

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Inspiring Graduates Share Their ��Ͽ� Polytechnic Experiences

Celebrate our graduates as they cross the commencement stage and reflect on the journey that brought them here

Inspiring Graduate: Rosella Wille, B.S. Business Administration

Hired before graduation at Redpath and Company as a tax associate

Inspiring Graduate: Thomas Shamla, B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Hired before graduation at Absolut Manufacturing

Hired before graduation at Midwest Packaging and Container Inspiring Graduate Makenna Lowell receives diploma from Chancellor Katherine Frank

University Marketing

B.S. Packaging

Our B.S. Packaging program provides hands-on training in package printing and design, business, quality management, and research and development.

Learn More

Distinguished alum, educator Albrecht credits ��Ͽ� for preparing graduates who ‘step forward’

Student speakers at May 16 ceremonies encourage peers to act with compassion, courage, and to continue learning

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��Ͽ�’s packaging program ranks among top 10 in national listings for its polytechnic approach

goersab — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

��Ͽ�’s packaging program ranks among top 10 in national listings for its polytechnic approachgoersab February 3, 2026

Applied learning, strong industry partnerships benefit students, create clear career pathways

Abbey Goers

��Ͽ�’s B.S. packaging program has been recognized by three national ranking authorities in their annual listings:

College Raptor: No. 3 for 2026
Universities.com: No. 9 for 2026
College Factual: No. 5 for 2025

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the top packaging programs in the nation,” said Associate Professor Min DeGruson, program director. “��Ͽ�’s distinction comes from our polytechnic approach of hands-on, applied learning, our deep and long-standing industry partnerships and our strong career focus.”

DeGruson said students with an interest in design, engineering, problem-solving and sustainability can find wonderful careers in the packaging field. In the end, every product needs a package — meaning every industry needs packaging engineers, she said.

��Ͽ� packaging graduates achieve 100% job placement with an average starting salary of $70,000. Located near the Twin Cities and Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, two major hubs for packaging innovation, ��Ͽ� offers unparalleled access to packaging suppliers and career opportunities across the food, consumer products and medical device industries.

Recent employers of graduates include 3M, Bosch, Boston Scientific, General Mills, Great Northern Corporation, Kimberly Clark, Medtronic, Milwaukee Tool, Post Consumer Brands, Sartori Cheese, Target and more.

��Ͽ�’s award-winning Cooperative Education & Internship Program helps students connect with placement opportunities to gain additional career-readiness skills before graduation. More than a third of students accept positions after graduation with their internship employer.

Students begin working in five dedicated packaging labs in their first semester, spending more than half of their coursework engaged in lab-based testing, materials research, prototyping, and design verification alongside faculty and peers.

“With our dedicated labs, a rich program history, and a highly engaged alumni network, our students benefit from exceptional industry support and clear career pathways. These strengths are reflected in our outcomes,” DeGruson said.

Cross-disciplinary research and projects are another highlight of education at ��Ͽ�, as well as the Great Northern Corp. Collaboration Experience course, in which students design packaging for a Great Northern client.

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“Packaging students work alongside students from the graphic communications, and graphic design and interactive media, industrial and product design and video production programs,” Associate Professor Kate Liu said. “We offer students multiple development paths to maximize their potential for success, including design, management, sustainability, business, medical packaging, food packaging, quality control, manufacturing, sales and supply chain.”

The program’s dedicated faculty, including three professors and an adjunct professor with diverse expertise, ensures students are well-prepared for their careers. “We have excellent instructors and small class sizes that allow students to develop key skills for success,” added Provost Glendalí Rodríguez.

In addition to her faculty role, DeGruson is chair of the Food Packaging Division under the Institute of Food Technologists and is an Executive Committee member of Kilmer Innovation in Packaging. Liu recently worked with Madison-based Tricky Foods to identify sustainable insulation options to safely ship charcuterie and cheese boards coast to coast.

Students have the opportunity to join the Stout Packaging Association. They also participate in and are frequently awarded for their designs at national and international student competitions, including the Paperboard Packaging Alliance, International Molded Fiber Association, Flexible Packaging Association and 48HR REPACK, created by the Institute of Packaging Professionals. A team of students even won a competition sponsored by Kellanova, a division of Kellogg’s, and the Packaging Association of Canada, for their redesign of the iconic Pringles packaging.

��Ͽ� is the only school among the Universities of Wisconsin that offers a bachelor’s in packaging. Schools that ranked first and second in each list are Michigan State University and Clemson University.

��Ͽ� also offers a minor in sustainability and a B.S. plastics engineering, in which faculty and students research how the plastics industry can be more sustainable, including by using more recycled materials.

Packaging

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Inspiring Graduate: Austin Pratt, B.S. Packaging

Hired before graduation at Smurfit Westrock

Inspiring Graduate: Makenna Lowell, B.S. Packaging

Hired before graduation at Midwest Packaging and Container

��Ͽ�’s packaging program ranks among top 10 in national listings for its polytechnic approach

Applied learning, strong industry partnerships benefit students, create clear career pathways

Applied learning, strong industry partnerships benefit students, create clear career pathways Students in the Packaging Lab

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B.S. Packaging

Our B.S. Packaging program provides hands-on training in package printing and design, business, quality management, and research and development.

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Min DeGruson

Research Interests: My research focuses primarily on synthesis and characterization of bio-based polymers for food packaging applications, and using nanotechnology to improve their mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties with additional functions such as antimicrobial property.

Full Name: Dr. Min L. DeGruson

Job Title: Associate Professor / Program Director

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College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Robert F. Cervenka School of Engineering Engineering & Technology Department

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Curriculum Vitae: Min DeGruson CV (129.92 KB)

Website: LinkedIn Profile

Education:

Degree: Ph.D. Food Packaging/Food Science

University: Pennsylvania State University

Degree: M.S. Plastics Engineering/Engineering Technology

University: Pittsburg State University

Degree: M.S. Cereal, Oils & Protein Engineering

University: South China University of Technology

Degree: B.S. Food Science & Technology

University: Shanghai Jiao Tong University

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Cool solution: Faculty-student research will help Madison company ship charcuterie, cheese boards coast to coast

giffeyt — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Cool solution: Faculty-student research will help Madison company ship charcuterie, cheese boards coast to coastgiffeyt December 17, 2025

Packaging professor and student identify sustainable insulation option

Tom Giffey

Faculty-student research conducted this fall in University of Wisconsin-Stout packaging labs is poised to help a Wisconsin business deliver its tasty but temperature-sensitive goods coast to coast.

Associate Professor Xiaojing “Kate” Liu of ��Ͽ�’s packaging program worked with Madison-based Tricky Foods to test the insulating abilities of two eco-friendly packaging options – one made of cornstarch, the other of recycled paper. The goal: To determine the best way to keep the cheese, meat and other perishables on the company’s charcuterie boards fresh while in transit.

Therese Merkel, owner of Tricky Foods, worked closely with Liu for months and is confident that the research-backed expertise that she’s received – and the custom-made packing materials she ordered based on that expertise – will help her small business break into the long-distance delivery market.

“Kate is the only reason I’m able to launch this thing so quickly,” Merkel said in an interview from her Madison office. “She has been the backbone of the entire project.”

Tricky Foods owner Therese Merkel, left, and Assistant Professor Kate Liu collaborate in ��Ͽ�'s packaging lab. / Submitted photo

Research will aid business expansion

Merkel started Tricky Foods in her home kitchen during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Thanks to her charcuterie boards filled with sliced meats, Wisconsin cheeses, fresh and dried fruits, honey, jams, nuts, and more, the business grew rapidly, and now Merkel has a storefront and 12 employees. But her ability to continue to scale up the business collided with her inability to figure out how to safely ship her goods long distances, despite customers’ requests.

“We’ve had people asking us to ship since 2020. I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll work on it when it slows down,’ and I never got around to it,” she explained.

The route around her business roadblock began when she joined a business accelerator program operated by StartingBlock, a nonprofit regional startup hub and coworking space in Madison.

“Because Therese’s products are perishable and have a very clear aesthetic, it was clear that she needed to work with packaging experts,” said Scott Mosley, CEO of StartingBlock. “As the state’s only polytechnic and the only school to have a dedicated packaging program, it was natural to recommend that Therese contact ��Ͽ�.”

Merkel reached out to ��Ͽ�’s Office of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement, which works to connect university resources to business, industry and community stakeholders. Seth Hudson, ��Ͽ�’s executive director for corporate relations and economic engagement, put her in touch with Liu.

Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement

��Ͽ�'s Office of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement is your go-to organization for connecting business and community with our extensive resources.

A sample charcuterie board prepared by Tricky Foods. / Submitted photo

Before partnering with Liu at ��Ͽ�, Merkel explained, “Nobody wanted to work with me because I’m too small at this point. I didn’t have a huge budget to pay someone to help me design something.” However, Liu was willing to collaborate, connecting frequently through video calls to ask questions and show packaging samples. Ultimately, she invited Merkel to visit ��Ͽ� to examine prototypes firsthand, which she did in September.

Once they settled on the optimal packaging – 1.5-inch-thick biodegradable foam insulation, which dissolves in water, wrapped in recyclable plastic and accompanied by 64- to 80-ounce cold gels – Liu helped Merkel identify vendors who could custom-make what she needed.

“I enjoyed it a lot,” Liu said of the collaboration. “(It was) especially satisfying to see the solution carried out and help Tricky Foods’ business.”

Liu said she is confident that the packaging solution will meet Merkel’s needs, and she added that part of the research results will be published in a peer-reviewed article and presented at an international packaging conference in 2026.

Merkel expects to begin test-shipping products using the new packaging this Christmas season, and she’s optimistic about the results and the impact on her business. “Next year will definitely be our biggest year ever,” she said.

The efficacy of sustainable packing materials, including cornstarch and recycled paper options (center), were tested at ��Ͽ�.

Impactful undergraduate research

��Ͽ� is one of only a few schools in the United States, and the only school in the Universities of Wisconsin, that offers a B.S. in packaging program.

Liu’s lab assistant for the research is Claire Le, a sophomore packaging major from Phu Quoc City, Vietnam. Le said she didn’t expect to be doing such impactful research so early in her college career. “It’s been challenging, but in the best way,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot about experimental design, budgeting, troubleshooting and presenting results professionally.”

Le said the most interesting part of the project was learning how different kinds of insulating materials behaved in cold-chain conditions. “Testing cornstarch versus fiber liners and tracking how long they keep food under 40°F feels meaningful because we’re working on something that can genuinely impact food safety,” she said.

These packaging options are also more environmentally friendly, replacing products made of polystyrene foam. Repeated lab tests found that cornstarch liners, when combined with cold packs, could keep 5-pound charcuterie boards properly cooled for 48 hours. When sealed correctly, the packages maintain the necessary temperature despite vibrations during transit, which were simulated in the lab with a vibration table that jostled the packages for hours at a time.

“I hope this research gives (Tricky Foods) clear, data-driven recommendations on which insulation material is more reliable for keeping food safe during transport,” Le said. “My goal is for the results to help them make stronger packaging decisions, reduce spoilage and improve their cold-chain performance.”

Merkel called ��Ͽ� a “hidden treasure” because of the expert assistance it can give to businesses like hers.

“For an entrepreneur who’s new in the e-commerce game, (��Ͽ�) is the difference between me being able to launch this and not,” she said. “Without Kate, I wouldn’t have been able to. I’m just beyond grateful.”

Packaging

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Inspiring Graduate: Austin Pratt, B.S. Packaging

Hired before graduation at Smurfit Westrock

Inspiring Graduate: Makenna Lowell, B.S. Packaging

Hired before graduation at Midwest Packaging and Container

��Ͽ�’s packaging program ranks among top 10 in national listings for its polytechnic approach

Applied learning, strong industry partnerships benefit students, create clear career pathways

Packaging professor and student identify sustainable insulation option for small business Tricky Foods owner Therese Merkel and Assistant Professor Kate Liu

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B.S. Packaging

Our B.S. Packaging program provides hands-on training in package printing and design, business, quality management, and research and development.

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Search Keywords: packagingsmall businessindustry partnerships

Hero Caption: ��Ͽ� Assistant Professor Kate Liu, left, and her lab assistant, sophomore Claire Le, pose with materials in the packaging lab.

Xiaojing (Kate) Liu

Full Name: Xiaojing "Kate" Liu

Job Title: Associate Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Engineering & Technology Department

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B.S. Packaging

Curriculum Vitae: Kate Liu CV (196.61 KB)

Education:

Degree: Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering

University: Wuhan University of Technology

Degree: M.S. Mechanical Engineering

University: Wuhan University of Technology

Degree: B.S. Mechanical Engineering

University: Wuhan University of Technology

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University Partner Award: Great Northern Corporation

goersab — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

University Partner Award: Great Northern Corporationgoersab August 27, 2025

'��Ͽ�’s hands-on approach aligns with our values of innovation, collaboration and continuous learning.'

Great Northern Corporation received the University Partner Award in recognition of its longstanding and transformative partnership with ��Ͽ�, particularly in providing program funding and equipment that directly enhances the learning experiences of packaging students.

“Great Northern supports ��Ͽ�’s packaging program because we believe in investing in the future of our industry,” said Zach Schmidtknecht (’99), general manager of Great Northern’s Chippewa Falls location.

“��Ͽ�’s hands-on approach aligns with our values of innovation, collaboration and continuous learning. The university consistently produces graduates who are not only technically skilled but also ready to contribute meaningfully from day one. Supporting the program is a natural extension of our commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable packaging industry,” he said.

A team of ��Ͽ� alums at Great Northern, in Chippewa Falls / Great Northern

One of the most impactful elements of the partnership is the Great Northern Corporation Collaboration Experience course, a cross-disciplinary class where packaging and graphic design and interactive media students work in teams to design packaging for a Great Northern client, providing an experience that mirrors the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in the workplace. They also receive mentorship from Great Northern employees, who serve as advisors for their projects throughout the semester.

Great Northern provided $100,000 to fund the sponsored collaborative course. Schmidtknecht collaborated with team members Kris Johnson (’94) and Sarah Murawski (’00), and ��Ͽ� faculty Robert Meisner and Nagesh Shinde to develop the course.

Schmidtknecht thinks ��Ͽ� and Great Northern’s partnership helps bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations.

“Through the collaborative course, we aim to foster cross-disciplinary teamwork, creative problem-solving and client-focused thinking. We want students to leave the course with a deeper understanding of how packaging and design intersect and how collaboration across disciplines leads to stronger, more innovative solutions,” Schmidtknecht said.

Schmidtknecht and the Great Northern team enjoy the energy and fresh perspective that ��Ͽ� students and faculty bring to the table. “Their curiosity and creativity challenge us to think differently and stay ahead of industry trends. In return, we benefit from a pipeline of talented, well-prepared graduates who are eager to make an impact. The partnership also reinforces our belief in ‘A Shared Future,’ one where education and industry grow together,” Schmidtknecht said.

Great Northern sees students bring cosmetics packaging, design ideas to life

Course sponsored by company provides concepts for Revolution Beauty of London

Great Northern also offers high-impact internships and cooperative education experiences, providing students with hands-on, career-building opportunities.

“We want our interns to feel like valued members of the team from day one. Our goal is to expose them to a variety of roles and departments so they can discover where their strengths and interests align. We aim to provide mentorship, hands-on experience and opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects. Ultimately, we hope they leave with a clearer sense of their career path, and ideally, return to Great Northern as full-time team members,” Schmidtknecht said.

Great Northern exemplifies what it means to be an engaged and visionary partner in higher education. It is an integral part of ��Ͽ�’s learning community and a trusted partner in advancing the mission of Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University.

Schmidtknecht said Great Northern is honored to receive the University Partner Award and proud of the relationship it’s built with ��Ͽ� over the past four decades. “This partnership is more than a recruitment pipeline – it’s a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and community. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and helping shape the next generation of packaging and design professionals,” he said.

About Great Northern

Great Northern, which manufactures packaging and retail displays, is headquartered in Appleton and has operations in ﬁve states. It employs more than 1,700 people nationwide, including more than 40 ��Ͽ� alumni.

“Many alumni hold leadership roles or have grown their careers with us over time, which speaks to the strength of the university’s programs and the alignment of our values,” Schmidtknecht said.

Great Northern exists to serve its customers and the communities in which it works by delivering innovative, sustainable packaging solutions through its three business units: packaging, instore and laminations.

For more than 60 years, Great Northern has led the way in recyclable packaging, protective components, and retail display solutions that help customers succeed while minimizing environmental impact. Its commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles is deeply rooted in the company’s culture and reflected in everything it does, making a difference in communities and for the environment, its customers and its team members.

��Ͽ� is one of only a few schools in the U.S., and the only school in the Universities of Wisconsin, which offers a B.S. in packaging program. The graphic design and interactive media program is part of the School of Art and Design, one of the largest public art schools in the Midwest.

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#StoutProud: Cindy Pawlcyn ('77)

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��Ͽ� Polytechnic alumni and students are using public art to celebrate local stories, strengthen community connections and inspire future generations.

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Distinguished alum, educator Albrecht credits ��Ͽ� for preparing graduates who ‘step forward’

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International Molded Fiber Association awards ��Ͽ� students first place for sustainable packaging solution

goersab — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:30:00 +0000

International Molded Fiber Association awards ��Ͽ� students first place for sustainable packaging solutiongoersab June 11, 2025

Leadership, design skills gained in hands-on experiences attributed to success

Abbey Goers

Packaging students from ��Ͽ� won first place among university teams from around the globe in the 2025 International Molded Fiber Association Student Competition.

Preston Briggs, Traverse City, Michigan; Hunter Clausen, Woodville; Lukas David, Johnson Creek; and Isaiah Sparks, St. Paul, created a sustainable packaging solution for a waffle iron, previously packaged in polystyrene, and replaced the components with molded fiber.

As modern manufacturing techniques are changing the way engineers approach their packaging designs for consumer goods, there is a growing use of molded fiber, typically seen in egg cartons and corner protectors.

Packaging Professor Kate Liu and student Preston Briggs attended the IMFA conference, where Briggs presented the winning design / Kate Liu

��Ͽ�’s team was awarded $1,000 for its first-place design. Packaging Assistant Professor Kate Liu and Briggs traveled to IMFA’s 27th Annual Conference in Miami, Florida, from April 30 to May 2, where Briggs presented a digital version of the winning design to industry professionals.

“Preston was a breath of fresh air and represented his team, his university, and himself with distinction on a global stage,” said IMFA Executive Chairman Gary Visser. “His team’s design was not only innovative but powerfully demonstrated the advantages of molded fiber compared to expanded polystyrene. IMFA believes that student engagement is essential to the future of our industry, and we’re committed to deepening our relationships with packaging programs and the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of sustainable packaging.”

Liu served as the team's advisor. She thinks their "final design solution closely reveals real-world applications and effectively addresses the initial challenge. The two factors, learned through their hands-on coursework and internship experiences, that contributed to their success were Lukas's excellent leadership and the solid design skill sets from Lukas and Preston, the team's primary designer."

Briggs presented a digital version of the winning design to industry professionals / Kate Liu

IMFA’s mission is to promote environmentally sustainable packaging solutions. It is dedicated to promoting the global use of renewable, recycled and natural fiber for products and packaging. IMFA covered all expenses for Liu and Briggs, including conference registration, flights, hotel and meals.

Designing sustainable packaging

The team’s design process began with analysis and market research of current packaging, before selecting to improve the waffle iron’s packaging, which originally contained foam molds that held the waffle iron in place.

“We also saw a way to change the box dimensions to save on corrugated for shipping size, as well as shipping costs,” David said. The team considered various solutions for design improvement, factoring in stacking capacity and the consumers’ unboxing experience.

They replicated the waffle iron three-dimensionally to get a feel for what a new package could look like and worked with engineers at Milwaukee-based Keiding, Inc., a molded pulp packaging manufacturer, to ensure they were making the mold properly for use in the manufacturing environment, David said.

Kate Liu and Preston Briggs with Keiding Chief Operating Officer Max Gehl / International Molded Fiber Association

Briggs, Clausen and David graduated in December 2024. Briggs is working at Imagine, in Minneapolis; Clausen at Boston Scientific; and David at Sartori Cheese, in Plymouth, Minnesota. Sparks graduated in May.

“I’m very proud of our students. They did an excellent job creating the new packaging. The design showcased the students' advanced skill sets, including 3D modeling, animation and rendering,” Liu said.

��Ͽ� is one of only a few schools in the U.S., and the only school in the Universities of Wisconsin, that offers a B.S. in packaging program. “Our program effectively prepares students for their careers by offering comprehensive courses and teaching essential design skills,” Liu said. “Additionally, our co-op opportunities provide excellent learning experiences within professional environments. These significantly contribute to our students’ success in national design competitions.”

Uncanny results: Students win international challenge to imagine new packaging for Pringles

Imagine creating a new package for a product that has been on store shelves around the world for more than 50 years. How would you make the package better?

This is just one of the numerous honors ��Ͽ� packing students have earned recently. Students also won the 2023 IMFA Student Competition, as well as first place in a competition sponsored by Kellanova, a division of Kellogg’s, to improve the Pringles potato crisps consumer experience; a Paperboard Packaging Alliance student competition; and an Institute of Packaging Professionals’ 48HR REPACK student design competition. The Stout Packaging Association hosted Packaging Jamboree 2024, or Pack Jam, an annual student-led international three-day conference.

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��Ͽ�’s packaging program ranks among top 10 in national listings for its polytechnic approach

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Leadership, design skills gained in hands-on experiences attributed to success Kate Liu and Preston Briggs with Max Gehl, Keiding Chief Operating Officer

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Ashley sponsors toolless bed connections engineering project

goersab — Tue, 27 May 2025 13:25:00 +0000

Ashley sponsors toolless bed connections engineering projectgoersab May 27, 2025

Product Development students build prototypes, propose solutions for global company

Abbey Goers

Students in a New Product Development course at ��Ͽ� recently completed a 3 1/2 week project developing toolless bed connections for Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley), a global leader in furniture manufacturing.

The project kicked off on April 15, when Ashley Research and Development (R&D) team members presented the project virtually to the 18 students in Assistant Professor Kevin Dietsche’s class.

Over the next few weeks, the students worked in eight cross-disciplinary groups to research market trends, ideate preliminary designs, test materials and build professional prototypes. They received mentorship along the way from Ashley product designers.

The class then traveled to Ashley in Arcadia on May 6, for a tour of the facility and to present their prototypes to the R&D team.

��Ͽ� engineering students outside of Ashley's Automation and Robotics Lab

“This was an incredible experience – one that stood out for its real-world relevance and industry collaboration,” mechanical engineering major Alex Springer said. “Working directly with professionals from Ashley – one of the biggest companies in the furniture industry – gave us insight into the complete product development cycle, from initial design through manufacturing and packaging to mechanical and interior design to align functional and aesthetic goals.”

Ashley Furniture Industries is the world's largest furniture manufacturer with more than 35,000 employees worldwide, providing product to 20,000 storefronts in 155 countries, and operating over 1,100 Ashley retail stores in 70 countries.

Dietsche was awarded a sponsorship by Ashley to fund the project.

Preliminary research and feedback

Ultimately, each group wanted to create a unique product that was budget-friendly, sturdy and easy to assemble right out of the box – a main goal of the toolless bed connection concept.

Luke Janssen, Sam Petkovsek, Professor Kevin Dietsche, Alex Springer and Jered Clark in the Woods Lab

They began by conducting market research to view current Ashley products and prices, as well as those of competitors and DIY models online. They factored in pricing of materials, such as medium density fiberboard (MDF) and particleboard, to save on costs, looked at estimated labor, manufacturing, storage, shipping and more compared to selling cost.

Several groups conducted surveys to find where consumers prefer to buy their furniture, how much they are willing to spend on a bed frame and how much time they expect to spend on assembly.

When looking at styles of joinery in woodworking, groups based their initial digital designs on mortise and tenon joinery with locking pins, castle joints and Japanese wedge joints.

Some groups simulated tests on the strength of MDF board and particleboard, testing different thicknesses for weight allowances. Other groups “over-built” their designs according to the FEA – finite element analysis – factor of safety, to measure how well a design could withstand a load.

Alex Springer and Sam Petkovsek measure and cut bed posts in the Woods Lab

One group – Springer and fellow mechanical engineering major Jered Clark, and packaging majors Luke Janssen and Sam Petkovsek – drafted a Computer Numerical Control, or CNC, model for automated machining of sideboards, slots, pins and legs, based on mortise and tenon joinery. They estimated a run time of 12 minutes to complete a bedframe.

Another group – mechanical engineering major Owen Coon and engineering technology major Kadence Tinsley – designed 3D-printed interlocking brackets using SolidWorks software. They also wrote an AI prompt to generate images of bed frames for college-age consumers. They estimated their design would have a 50% profit margin.

Technology education major Annika Schlueter and engineering technology major Hunter Ouimette built a scaled model of an interlocking Japanese wood joint bedframe using CNC for manufacturing the larger parts because it is more efficient and cost-effective. They also implemented two different types of locks – a wedge and a 3D-printed ring – for different aesthetic looks.

Ashley product designers Angel Kraemer, Caleb Toft and Anna Lindner, all ��Ͽ� industrial and product design alums, provided feedback, including encouraging the groups to think about usability and flexibility for multiple looks depending on a consumer’s individual style.

Sam Petkovsek and Luke Janssen cut bed slats in the Woods Lab

They asked the groups to understand the materials used and how different environments can impact MDF board versus particleboard, such as temperature and climate tolerance, as well as to consider how the different materials, such as MDF versus wood, handle tooling and manufacturing. A joint design in one material may be more difficult to produce in another.

Designing under a deadline

Dietsche uses the Design Build Process – a model for teaching projects with quick turnaround times. “When you give students such a fast deadline for large-scale projects, when you cram them with ideas, it forces creativity. There’s this crash and burn and rebuild mentality. They’ll make mistakes and learn to quickly find solutions. It can be stressful, but it builds grit.”

Schlueter thinks one of the biggest benefits of this teaching/learning approach is the need to be creative and take advantage of the time given, with only four to five class periods to research, test, fully develop a model and be ready to present. “No team’s design has stayed the exact same since we started the toolless bed connection project. Things go wrong, and things go right, and we had to develop accordingly,” she said.

Jered Clark printed models of 3D printed fasteners

Springer, Petkovsek, Janssen and Clark’s group had to pivot away from their original design of mortise and tenon joinery when Ashley’s designers recommended that they use fasteners to secure the frame to the legs instead of wood joints. This tested the group’s adaptability, Springer said.

“Ashley sent us some ideas for fasteners, and they served as a model for ours. After researching, we bought one model of metal fasteners and designed two custom models of fasteners – a slot and lock; and a hook and clamp,” added Clark, who printed the group’s models on his 3D printer at home.

The group designed multiple iterations of their fasteners. The first prototype failed to hold securely under tension. The second performed better but still slipped under stress. “Our final design addressed those weaknesses, significantly improving grip and structural stability. I think if we were able to continue the project, we would look into stronger plastics and possibly metal to enhance the durability of our clips,” Springer said.

Jered Clark, Alex Springer and Sam Petkovsek test their 3D-printed fasteners

In the Jarvis Hall Technology Wing Woods Lab, the group built and tested a full-scale queen-sized prototype using MDF and chipboard for the frame and 4X4s for the posts. Working with MDF introduced material-specific hurdles, such as expansion and contraction, which affected their product’s fit tolerances.

They also developed a corrugated branded packaging solution using ��Ͽ�’s Packaging Lab in the Applied Arts Building and designed an assembly booklet for customers. “It was an all-around lightbulb moment to see the mechanical engineering and packaging phases of our project come together,” Springer said.

Making an impact on manufacturing

Dietsche and the Product Development class traveled together by bus to Ashley on May 6. They were given a tour of the facilities, including a visit to the Advanced Technology Maker Center, the Automation and Robotics Laboratory, and the design and R&D departments.

��Ͽ� engineering students tour Ashley's facilities and labs in Arcadia

The eight groups then gave PowerPoint presentations of their designs and discussed their physical prototypes with the R&D team.

Springer, Petkovsek, Janssen and Clark are proud of their final outcome. Along with their functional full-size bed frame, they also delivered a professional mini model to showcase during their presentation.

“Given the timeline and complexity, we’re delighted with what we accomplished. We were excited to get feedback on our project, especially the positive feedback from Ashley,” said Springer, noting that presenting to Ashley was a highlight of the semester.

“The project was an opportunity to make connections with different majors in the class, advance our CNC and manufacturing process skills and professionalism, and have fun while doing something that could be very impactful for a large company,” Schlueter added.

Kadence Tinsley and Owen Coon present their toolless bed connections

��Ͽ�’s engineering and technology department offers six undergraduate degrees, including computer and electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, plastics engineering, engineering technology and packaging, as well as four minors and a master’s in manufacturing engineering.

Technology education is offered through the School of Education, which is home to nine undergraduate degrees, five graduate degrees, certificates, certifications and online professional development courses.

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Oshkosh Corporation will host Design Wisconsin, ��Ͽ�’s annual event exploring innovative design

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Inspiring Graduate: Elaina Marxen, B.S. Packaging

goersab — Wed, 14 May 2025 17:55:49 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Elaina Marxen, B.S. Packaginggoersab May 14, 2025

‘Packaging engineering is one of those jobs that affect everyday life that people do not realize.’

Inspiring Graduate: Elaina Marxen (’25)

Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota
Degree: B.S. Packaging
Minors: Global Perspectives on Engineering; Graphic Media & Print Management

Hoping to contribute to sustainability efforts and consumer experience, Elaina Marxen was hired before graduation as a research and development packaging engineer with Post Consumer Brands.

Elaina Marxen receives her diploma from Chancellor Frank.

“Packaging is continuously evolving and growing,” she said. “I want to contribute and grow with the industry to make positive impacts in the world and people’s lives.”

After completing two internships and studying abroad twice in Germany and Thailand, Marxen, of Rochester, Minnesota, graduated magna cum laude, earning her bachelor’s in packaging and two minors on May 10, along with 1,174 ��Ͽ� graduates.

“It took me five years to complete my degree, but Stout embraces the nontraditionality,” Marxen said.

“When talking to people who do not attend Stout, the four-year track seems expected and pushed. Stout never felt like that. Stout encourages hands-on learning, co-ops that may require taking a semester off, research, and many other opportunities because it’s about the quality of the education, not the cookie-cutter road.”

How has ��Ͽ� prepared you to work in your field?

Stout provided so many opportunities that prepared me for my field, from labs and projects to my two internships/co-ops.

My design internship with Buckeye Corrugated, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, was probably one of the most rewarding experiences I had. The internship experience let me know that I had picked the correct career path. I also grew as an individual much more than I expected.

Elaina Marxen was hired as an R&D packaging engineer with Post Consumer Brands.

My second co-op was at Starbucks, in Seattle, Washington, as a global R&D engineer in the packaging department. I had always wanted to see the West Coast, and this was a perfect opportunity. At the end of this co-op, I knew I had picked the right school.

I was encouraged throughout my time at Stout to complete more than one internship/co-op in different areas of packaging to see what I liked best. Going from a small design team at Buckeye to an R&D team at a large company like Starbucks was a perfect fit to find what I wanted for my future job.

What brought you to ��Ͽ�?

In short, packaging. I had a teacher in high school who got distracted in class one day talking about her daughter transferring schools. They had toured ��Ͽ�, and my teacher was telling the class about all the majors and jobs people do that affect everyday life.

Packaging is one of those majors, and packaging engineering is one of those jobs that affect everyday life that people do not realize.

Touring colleges and researching programs, Stout stuck out to me for a few reasons:

It’s a polytechnic, with career-focused education. Hands-on learning is how I learn the best.
You pay by the credit, and laptop and textbooks are included in tuition.
When I toured, I saw the Packaging Lab. Seeing the lab assured me that this program was hands-on and would prepare me for a career.

Elaina Marxen celebrates earning her packaging degree from ��Ͽ� on May 10.

What stands out about your ��Ͽ� experience?

My experience at Stout is best described as a “Where’s Waldo” book. I’d text my mom, “Guess what?” She stopped guessing after my second semester and just told me to tell her. These texts or calls included joining clubs, getting an internship, going to Germany and Thailand, getting a co-op, attending Pack-Expo and more. I’ve been busy for the last five years.

Reflecting on what has happened in the last five years, Stout was a great education. I’d like to acknowledge a few of my professors. First, Marya Wilson, who made me feel seen. Second, Dan Hendrickson, who was understanding and helped me stay caught up in class after I was in a car accident. Third, Yee, from my short-term study abroad, bought me a cake as we were traveling over my birthday. This was a moment that stuck out to me that shows how much Stout staff cares.

Finally, all the packaging professors: Min DeGruson, Kate Liu, Mary Paz Alvarez Valverde, Robert Meisner, Gary Borges, and John Scheffler. They were encouraging, always answered questions and went out of their way to help me.

Stout professors want to see students succeed and will go out of their way to help them.

How did your involvement on campus impact your experience?

I was a part of the ASL, Alfresco, Stout Packaging Association, and Rock Climbing clubs and met some of my closest friends. I got into climbing the month before starting college. The culture of climbing is something I love. It is inclusive and supportive of people at all levels.

Elaina Marxen at the Stout Adventures' climbing wall.

I think that joining organizations helped me excel in classes and assignments I would have struggled in. At Stout Adventures, I met people in all sorts of majors who had different skill sets. I got help with physics, graphic communication, business and other classes.

For the Flexible Packaging Association’s Student Design Competition, my group won second place with our Puppy Chow Baking Kit. We also won what was an unofficial award at the time for best video. This was a very fun experience to learn and participate in the design process. Making the videos was also an entertaining experience. This competition stuck out to me because of the help along the way. Networking and meeting other people outside of packaging helped my group succeed.

I also received several scholarships: Cindy Finley Memorial Scholarship, Iluminado el Futuro Scholarship, Boston Scientific Scholarship, Packaging Corporation of America, Mayo Clinic Scholarship and the Polytechnic Scholarship.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

During my co-op at Starbucks, I went on a hike three hours away from Seattle on a day off. I forgot my hiking shoes, so I hiked 8 to 9 miles in my Birkenstocks.

I dealt with challenges while pursuing my degree like I did this hike in horrible shoes: head on and one step at a time.

Elaina Marxen on one of her 'Where's Waldo?' adventures.

Financially, I have put myself through college. I worked two off-campus jobs, including as a barista at Caribou. Working as early as 4:30 a.m. had its downfalls, but it let me stay engaged in classes and clubs throughout college. I learned time management very quickly. I do have some student loans, but all subsidized and through FAFSA, which is a major win for me. I believe this was a win because I still attended many opportunities that cost money outside of tuition and room and board.

From COVID, to internships/co-ops, and summer jobs, I have moved a lot in five years. Moving is stressful and definitely a challenge. I lived in four states during this time: Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Washington. My mom helped me. Making a system, friends, and making sure to get some lunch after every move was how I got through it.

I was in a car accident last fall. Between doctor appointments, dealing with insurance, applying and interviewing for post-grad jobs, trying to work, maintain my grades and being in my capstone class, I was struggling to stay on top of everything. Working with my professors, taking it day by day, and tapping into ��Ͽ�’s Student Counseling Center resources was how I got through it. Friends were so supportive and always offered rides while I was looking for a new car.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

Until I took ETECH 100 – typically a freshman or sophomore course – as a fifth-year senior, I did not realize how far I’ve come. Sitting with freshmen and sophomores made me think about what I was like at 18 years old. I would not have expected what I would accomplish and do in the next five years. I am proud to have taken every opportunity I could and to have navigated life the last five crazy years.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

My sister, Autumn Marxen, attends ��Ͽ�. I remember being so annoyed and upset she chose the university that I chose, but it has served some secret blessings. We are opposites. I am all math, science and sports; she is art, English and photography. Some blessings include being able to help when she has an emergency or calling her when I run out of Nyquil and chicken noodle soup. We can be together and support each other.

Most importantly, she was a resource for the art, video and editing assignments I struggled with. She helped me learn how to use a DSLR camera decently, helped with Adobe Illustrator projects and took photos for my group’s capstone project. It always turned out better when she helped me.

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‘Packaging engineering is one of those jobs that affect everyday life that people do not realize.’ Elaina Marxen, Commencement

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Inspiring Graduates: Jack & Adam Brisson, B.S. Packaging

giffeyt — Wed, 14 May 2025 16:51:31 +0000

Inspiring Graduates: Jack & Adam Brisson, B.S. Packaging giffeyt May 14, 2025

‘Our classes really allow us to be creative and think outside the box.’

Inspiring Graduate: Jack & Adam Brisson (’25)

Hometown: Blaine, Minnesota
Degree: B.S. Packaging

As twin brothers, roommates, and now ��Ͽ� graduates, Jack and Adam Brisson are a package deal. It’s fitting, then, that they found their niche on campus in ��Ͽ�’s packaging program.

The natives of Blaine, Minnesota – whose parents, Scott and Jennifer, are also alumni – originally enrolled at ��Ͽ� with the intention of pursuing degrees in mechanical engineering. Ultimately, however, they switched paths after realizing that packaging was a better fit, Jack said.

Adam, left, and Jack Brisson in a packaging lab.

“I credit my advisors, as well as my friends who were in the packaging program, with persuading me to make a change,” Adam added. “Once I started taking the packaging courses, I found them to be more interesting and hands-on – ultimately a better fit for me. After sticking with the course work and work experiences, there is nothing I would rather be doing for a career.”

The Brisson brothers were among 1,174 ��Ͽ� graduates who took part in the university’s spring commencement ceremonies on May 10.

Jack Brisson shakes Chancellor Katherine Frank's hand at commencement.

Jack and Adam found they meshed well in the packing program and quickly made connections with both peers and faculty members. “I am close with everyone in my packaging classes as well as my packaging professors,” Jack said. “I also enjoyed all the different labs that we did. I think our classes really allow us to be creative and think outside the box on different projects as you would in the industry.”

Both the Packaging Materials Lab and the Distribution Lab provided students with opportunities to conduct tests and use the software that will be part of their careers, Jack added.

Adam said the best parts of his ��Ͽ� experience were the people in the packaging program. “I do not know what I would do on a bigger, faster-paced campus,” he said. “It is great getting to see the same people every day. The professors know everyone by name and know what they’re about.”

Adam Brisson crosses the stage during the commencement ceremony.

The Brissons were both involved in the Stout Packaging Association, a campus organization that gave them an opportunity to hear from and meet industry representatives each week. “This helped me decide what I wanted to do with my degree as well as helped me land internships and a job,” Jack said.

The packaging program also gave the brothers chances to interact with alumni in the field. “We have so many opportunities to try out different paths through internships and co-ops before graduation,” Adam said. “With options such as food science, medical device, corrugated design and sales, you can find what you want to specialize in.”

Through an internship at Coloplast in Minneapolis, Adam developed an interest in medical device packaging, and before graduation he accepted a job as a medical device packaging engineer at Philips in Plymouth, Minnesota.

The Brisson brothers touring ��Ͽ� in 2020, left, and at a Minnesota Wild hockey game. / Submitted photos

Meanwhile, Jack has been hired as a structural designer at Great Northern Corporation in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, where he will be designing corrugated packaging and product displays.

“I strive to be a respected designer in the field of corrugated design and at some point, try and give back to students here at ��Ͽ�,” Jack said. “I also want to spread the word of packaging and ��Ͽ� to help grow our packaging program as well as grow the packaging industry.”

In the future, Adam also hopes to give back to his alma mater while employing the skills he learned there. “I hope to work to help develop and package products that can not only improve the quality of life but potentially save lives,” he said.

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Students recognized for leadership, academic excellence in packaging, social science, food technology, interior design

goersab — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:41:38 +0000

Students recognized for leadership, academic excellence in packaging, social science, food technology, interior designgoersab February 11, 2025

Competitive industry-sponsored scholarships positively impact graduate, undergraduates

Abbey Goers

Paying for college can be stressful. But as a Money Magazine 2024 Best Colleges in Wisconsin, ��Ͽ� understands. Noted for its focus on affordability and student outcomes, ��Ͽ� has resources to help alleviate some of that financial pressure.

From offering on-campus jobs through Career Services’ Handshake app, providing one-on-one guidance at the Financial Wellness & Literacy Center, and coordinating hundreds of ��Ͽ� Foundation scholarships and external industry-sponsored scholarships, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University makes sure Blue Devils reach their graduation goals.

This academic year, more than 1,000 students have been awarded nearly $3 million in external and Foundation scholarships, reflecting their dedication to their fields of study and promise in their future careers.

Packaging senior Makenna Lowell / Makenna Lowell

Scholarships impact students’ education, allowing them to focus on their degree programs, applied research and creative endeavors at Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University, as well as motivate students to continue to strive for excellence in their fields through professional development opportunities.

“With this support, I can dedicate more time to hands-on projects, collaborate with peers and faculty, and participate in industry-related events. This will enhance my skills and knowledge in packaging, preparing me for a successful career,” said packaging senior Makenna Lowell, of Frederick, Md.

Lowell was recently awarded two industry-sponsored scholarships: a $5,000 Mark C. Garvey Scholarship by PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, and a $500 scholarship from the Institute of Packaging Professionals Minnesota Chapter.

Other recent external scholarship recipients include:

Packaging senior Elaina Marxen, of Rochester, Minn.: $5,000 Cindy Finley Memorial Scholarship, on behalf of the Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container Association.
Applied social science senior Sophia Moore, of Redwing, Minn.: $3,000 Tommy G. Thompson Leadership Scholarship, sponsored by the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership.
M.S. food science and technology graduate student Meghana Maske: $3,000 Food Safety Scholarship, sponsored by the FMI Foundation in partnership with the Safe Quality Food Institute.
Interior design senior Lindsey Phillips, of Eden Prairie, Minn.: $7,500 Network of Executive Women in Hospitality’s Icon of Industry Scholarship.

In addition, 48 students received $1,500 scholarships from Mayo Clinic Health Systems, for a total of $72,000; and five students received $2,000 each from the Building Owners and Managers Association of Greater Minneapolis for pursuing careers in commercial real estate and building management.

Gaining professional development opportunities in packaging

Marxen and Lowell enjoy how broad the packaging industry is and the opportunities for students and careers in the field, yet how tightly knit the professional community feels.

“It is a growing industry that is pertinent to the function of daily life. I hope to develop and design creative packaging solutions that benefit sustainability efforts and positive consumer experiences,” Marxen said.

Packaging senior Elaina Marxen

Lowell added, “There are tons of opportunities in niches of packaging that most people have never even thought of. I am excited by the idea of so many possibilities for my future and many career paths to choose from.”

Marxen, who has minors in graphic media and print management and global perspectives on engineering, has completed two co-ops: one with Starbucks’ global research and development and engineering team in Seattle and one with Buckeye Corrugated, Inc. in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

“I see the major advantage to my Stout education when interacting with engineering students from other universities. Stout requiring a co-op not only encourages me to test out different areas of my field but also gives me related job experience I can talk about in interviews and bring forward into my career.

“These co-ops made me more confident than ever that I made the right decision to attend ��Ͽ�. The polytechnic education and career-focused program give me the tools and knowledge I need to be able to exceed expectations in my future endeavors,” added Marxen, who will graduate in May 2025.

Lowell, who has a minor in sustainability, has completed a seven-month co-op at Kimberly-Clark in Appleton, working on real-world projects that resulted in her contributions being featured on store shelves.

Packaging students Griffin Reisman and Makenna Lowell, IOPP scholarship recipients / Mary Paz Alvarez Valverde

“During this time, I honed my professional communication skills and learned extensively about project management and work timelines,” she said. “I have accepted a second seven-month co-op with Ocean Spray in Lakeville, Mass., and I am excited to collaborate with a new team and deepen my knowledge of the food packaging industry.”

Lowell will graduate in May 2026. She’s interested in working for a consumer goods company on the East Coast, closer to her hometown.

“The packaging industry is so broad, and I have had so many memorable experiences with fellow packaging students from other universities and with industry professionals. I am excited for what the future brings and the many great people in the industry that I have yet to meet,” she said.

Moore is leading the way in public service

Moore has known from a very young age that she wanted to work in public policy and law. Within her applied social science degree, she’s concentrating on history and politics.

Applied social science student Sophia Moore at the State Capitol Building / Sophia Moore

Moore is one of 15 students across the Universities of Wisconsin to receive the Tommy G. Thompson Leadership Scholarship, awarded for their spirit of tackling big problems through teamwork and determination to make Wisconsin a better place.

Last summer, Moore interned with AmeriCorps as a Housing Stability Fellow for a local domestic violence and homeless shelter.

“My experience there was completely life-changing,” she said. “Having an understanding of nonprofits and legislation regarding social welfare programs definitely enhanced my experience while on the job.”

Moore’s on-campus leadership includes serving as a student senator for the Stout Student Association, later becoming a vice chair, and now, director of Legislative Affairs. She is a civic engagement student lead at the university’s Involvement Center, a student orientation leader for incoming first-year students, and sits on committees, like the Student Retention Committee, all charged with maintaining a student-driven campus.

“Our campus is uniquely full of leadership opportunities, and our faculty and staff are so incredibly helpful in equipping you with the skills needed to become a great leader,” Moore said.

“The leadership scholarship will allow me to continue my undergraduate education at a lower cost, alleviating me of some financial burden as a low-income college student and leaving me able to put my all into my studies and leadership responsibilities,” she said.

Moore will graduate in winter 2026 and hopes to continue her journey into public service as an intern or staff member for a legislator before applying to law school.

Maske awarded for addressing challenges in food product development

Maske is passionate about advancing food safety protocols and leveraging her skills in quality management to enhance product integrity and sustainability.

Meghana Maske, M.S. food science and technology graduate student / Meghana Maske

She is one of 15 recipients from across the U.S., Canada and Mexico to receive the FMI scholarship, which recognizes outstanding food safety scholars based on academic ability, leadership potential, motivation and initiative.

Her thesis research, “Development of 3D Printed Fish Analogs with Enhanced Omega-3 Fatty Acids,” uses extrusion-based 3D printing technology to create plant-based fish analogs.

Maske has researched plant-based ingredients and is refining formulations to optimize texture and nutritional composition and to replicate the muscle fiber structure of fish.

“An ongoing focus of my research is enhancing omega-3 fatty acid levels from plant-based sources, an essential aspect of nutritional benefits. This project aims to contribute to sustainable food innovation and provide viable alternatives to traditional fish products,” she said.

“My research has greatly enhanced my technical and analytical capabilities, allowing me to systematically approach challenges in food product development. This structured and methodical approach has strengthened my collaborative skills and problem-solving mindset to enable me to contribute effectively to advancing food innovation, particularly in the development of sustainable food products,” she said.

Her research is funded by ��Ͽ�’s Student Research Grant.

Maske will graduate in May 2025. She plans to work in food safety and quality assurance and thinks her research and internship as a food safety and quality intern at Bunge, in Danville, Ill., have prepared her for a career. At Bunge, Maske gained experience in conducting audits, developing standard operating procedures and managing food safety documentation.

Maske is grateful for the opportunity to receive the FMI scholarship.

“Meghana’s strengths are her positive thinking and proactiveness in everything she does. This is an important virtue for personal success and for successfully leading a team,” said Program Director Eun Joo Lee. “Meghana’s case is a good example of the snowball effect of success, showing how student's small successes lead to big successes continuously. I am very proud of her.”

Maske and FMI scholarship recipients are invited to attend the SQF Unites Conference, March 2-5, in Orlando, Fla.

Phillips creates perfect spaces for her clients

Phillips enjoys creating functional, beautiful and inspiring environments. “I have always been someone who loves puzzles, so solving problems with design, space planning and budgeting was a good fit for me. Turning a space with infinite possibilities into the perfect space for the client is what inspires me to design,” she said.

Interior design student Lindsey Phillips / Lindsey Phillips

She thinks her classes and studios have opened her eyes to what being an interior designer truly means. She has designed workspaces, retail, libraries, residential spaces and more.

“With courses like lighting design, construction documents, contracts and codes, my projects have developed to be the most successful and realistic products I can design,” said Phillips, who worked as a sales intern with Southern Lights, in Burnsville, Minn., last summer.

Phillips NEWH Icon of Industry scholarship covers almost all her senior year tuition.

“It has been very helpful since I pay for all my expenses by myself. I have been taking out loans and working multiple jobs while staying a full-time student. This scholarship not only helps me financially but also confirms that my hard work has paid off,” she said.

Phillips, who has a minor in project management, will graduate in May 2025. She plans to work for a commercial design firm that focuses on hospitality design.

NEWH Inc. fosters leadership development, scholarships, advancing education, mentorship and networking in the hospitality industry.

“This is a wonderful accomplishment for Lindsey, and we are all very proud of her. NEWH is a great organization and has supported our students for years,” said Program Director Shelley Pecha.

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