Georgia-Pacific, Diboll High School Launch Technical Skills Course

Recently, Georgia-Pacific partnered with Diboll High School to launch the school's first technical skills course to prepare students for manufacturing careers after graduation. After 5 weeks of classroom instruction, 10 in-depth lessons, and numerous hands-on activities, 15 high school juniors successfully earned the first of two certifications available through the technical skills program.

As incoming seniors, these students will continue the coursework in the 2026-2027 school year with quarterly mill shadowing and paid weekend maintenance shadowing for students 18 years or older. Upon graduation next year, their successful completion of the program could lead directly to employment opportunities. As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, Georgia-Pacific is investing in the next generation of talent.

“Through hands-on learning and industry-focused instruction provided by Georgia-Pacific subject matter experts, students are gaining real-world experience that will better prepare them for employment in manufacturing,” said Matt Wynn, Georgia-Pacific Continuous Improvement Leader and Technical Skills Class Coordinator. “Our goal is to equip students with the core technical knowledge and practical experience to understand and apply operator, electrical, and mechanical maintenance skills in a real sawmill environment.”

The first-year course study, which is available for incoming junior students, covers the introduction of the sawmill industry, log-to-lumber process flow and machine center, safety, operator roles and controls, hydraulics 101, electrical systems 101 and 102, precision measurement, mechanical maintenance, and interview preparations.

“We are pleased with the outcome of this year’s class,” said Josh Slack, Diboll High School CTE Director. “The students were engaged, eager to learn, and enthusiastic throughout the program. We’ve received great feedback from the students and are excited to continue growing and building upon the success of this program in the years to come.”

Upon graduation, Georgia-Pacific will continue supporting students by providing opportunities to further their education at Angelina College, where they can pursue electrical maintenance and mechanical maintenance training while employed at Georgia-Pacific.