Investing in the future of skilled trades: Pulp & Paper Division announces Development Program Scholarship winners

Two students are one step closer to launching careers in skilled trades after being named recipients of the J.D. Irving, Limited Pulp & Paper Division Development Program Scholarship. 

This year, Seth Armstrong and Izuagie Michael Eshilama have been awarded scholarships that provide full tuition, books and guaranteed work terms with the division. Both will begin the Process Control Technology program at New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) in the fall. 

The scholarship is designed to help students pursue high-demand skilled trades and technical careers by combining classroom education with hands-on industry experience. Through guaranteed work terms, recipients gain valuable exposure to modern manufacturing environments while learning alongside experienced professionals.    

For Armstrong, the scholarship provides both financial support and motivation as he begins his post-secondary journey.  

"This scholarship will have such a strong benefit on my education and future because it makes me determined to succeed in school," Armstrong said. "The hands-on work experience it gives me through great work terms is helping to prepare me for my future career with this company while teaching me to become a stronger leader at the same time." 

For Eshilama, the scholarship supports his decision to return to school and pursue a long-term career in Process Control Technology. 

"It gives me the opportunity to focus on developing the technical skills needed to succeed in the industry while building a strong foundation for my future," Eshilama said. 

"With the guaranteed work terms, I look forward to applying what I learn in the classroom, gaining hands-on experience and learning from experienced professionals," he added.  

The scholarship reflects the division's commitment to helping students access education, experience and mentorship to build rewarding careers in skilled trades, close to home. 

"Skilled trades professionals are the backbone of our Pulp & Paper Division," said Chris Clark, Vice President, Pulp & Paper Division. "Every day, they keep our mills running safely and efficiently by operating equipment, maintaining systems and solving complex challenges. We are proud to support these students through this scholarship and look forward to seeing the impact they make in their careers. We hope the opportunity to learn in our world-class facilities helps inspire the next generation of skilled trades professionals."