Professional Development: AICC Pathways to Success – Something for Everyone

The corrugated industry thrives on innovation, expertise, and strong leadership, but no one advances alone. Career growth requires ongoing education, peer networking, and mentorship, and that’s exactly what AICC’s Pathways to Success provides. Designed as a structured road map, this initiative ensures everyone, from new hires to senior executives, has a place to learn, connect, and grow within the AICC community. Whether you’re just entering the industry, stepping into management, or preparing for an executive role, AICC is here to support you with the right training, the right group, and the right connections. The Pathways to Success is a mix of AICC education programs and dedicated groups tailored to professionals at different career stages. It combines technical training, leadership development, business education, and executive coaching with opportunities to join peer groups who provide support and industry insight. These pathways ensure that no matter where you are in your career, you have access to structured learning, mentorship, and a professional network that will help you grow. At the start of the pathways road map are foundational courses and introductory programs designed to help new industry professionals build a solid base of knowledge. AICC’s Packaging University, hands-on workshops, and technical training give employees the tools to understand the fundamentals of corrugated packaging, manufacturing, sales, and design. This early stage of learning is critical, providing entry-level employees with not only knowledge but also a sense of belonging in the industry. From here, professionals can begin shaping their career paths, whether in operations, customer service, sales, production, or leadership. AICC’s Emerging Leaders (EL) program has played a key role in introducing industry newcomers and preparing them for a career in packaging. Created for professionals younger than 35, this program focuses on networking and leadership training to help develop the industry’s next generation of leaders. Participants build relationships with peers, learn from industry veterans, and gain exposure to the broader packaging business through plant tours. Over the years, the EL program has become a launchpad for young professionals, preparing them for the next stage of their careers. One of the key additions to AICC Pathways to Success is the new Management Group, created to support those transitioning from individual contributors to management roles. Many EL graduates, as well as professionals who never had the chance to participate in EL, reach a stage in their careers where they need support in managing people and resources. This group will focus on developing leadership skills, problem-solving common managerial challenges, and providing a space for peer discussions about the realities of management. Unlike the EL program, which is targeted at young professionals, the Management Group is multigenerational, allowing new and experienced managers to learn from one another. It will launch in fall 2025, offering participants a structured way to develop professional excellence in management. For those looking to deepen their business knowledge, AICC’s Business Management in Corrugated Packaging Certificate provides a Master of Business Administration-style education specifically tailored for packaging professionals. This program serves as a bridge between management and executive leadership, offering training in financial management, operations, supply chain strategy, and business development. Designed to be industry-specific and customizable, this 12-month certificate program allows managers and future executives to gain the skills necessary to drive business success without committing to a full master’s program. At the highest level of the Pathways to Success map is the Next Generation Executive Program, designed for future business owners and C-suite executives. This program is built to equip participants with advanced leadership skills, executive coaching, and strategic business planning. As companies in the corrugated industry continue to grow and evolve, having a strong pipeline of future executives is critical, and this program ensures tomorrow’s leaders are ready to take on the challenges of running a business at the highest level. All of these programs are being sponsored in part by the Foundation for Packaging Education, whose mission is to develop and disseminate education and training for the members and Associates of AICC and the greater packaging industry. AICC’s Pathways to Success is more than a collection of programs; it’s a commitment to every member’s career development. The pathways road map provides a structured approach to career growth in the corrugated industry, ensuring that at every stage, professionals have access to training, mentorship, and networking opportunities that will help them take the next step. Whether you are just starting out or preparing to lead a company, a group or an educational program is designed to support you. From entry-level training to executive leadership, AICC is building the future of the packaging industry, one leader at a time. Where are you on the pathways road map, and where do you want to go next?