In the vast landscape of professional development, the concept of “Kaizen” stands as a beacon of transformative growth. As we look ahead to 2025, this Japanese philosophy of continuous personal and organizational improvement at every level will take center stage at the AICC Spring Meeting in Bonita Springs, Florida set for April 30-May.
The upcoming gathering presents a unique opportunity for Emerging Leaders eager to chart their course and collaborate with like-minded peers and industry veterans ready and willing to share their wisdom.
Richard Goldberg, advisor to various Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMS), will be the featured speaker for the Emerging Leaders Training, delivering an insightful training session on “Data-Driven Decision Making in the Corrugated Industry.” He will explore how leveraging data can enhance the decision-making processes, streamline operations, and drive profitability, while also discussing the unique language and terminology necessary to navigate the complexities of the corrugated sector.
This session will equip attendees with practical strategies for integrating data into everyday business decisions and understanding the industry’s specific communication requirements.
Rich began his career in the corrugated industry in the early 1980s, and with over 40 years of experience, he remains passionate about the industry’s evolution.
For the first 25 years of his career, he served as Vice President of Engineering & Technology for a large UK-based independent company. During this time, he managed 26 factories, overseeing sheet feeders, box plants, sheet plants, machinery, processes, materials handling, and overall technology.
His expertise has always been in factory integration and automation, and he led the installation of more than 30 converting machines, six full corrugators, corrugator upgrades, and advanced material handling systems. Additionally, Rich played a pivotal role in the design and construction of a 400,000 square-foot greenfield box plant, as well as overseeing more than 10 factory expansions.
In 2009, Rich transitioned to vice president of operations for another large independent company, where he spearheaded the retrofit of a 400,000 square-foot warehouse into a modern box plant. He later expanded the facility with an additional 100,000 square feet and added a second corrugator, increasing production capacity to 10 million square feet per day.
Under his leadership, the plant became known for its world-class safety standards, factory integration, and modern machinery, operating on a full three-shift schedule. Rich also fostered a culture of continuous improvement, conducting interviews with all employees and working closely with his management team to strengthen the plant’s operations.
The EL training session will take place on Wednesday, April 30 from 12:45 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
An EL networking event is set for the following night, Thursday, May 1 from 7:30 pm to 10:00 p.m. Cost is $275 per person, and $150 for spouses/guests.
The latter will be a relaxed atmosphere with an open bar, where attendees can sip on their favorite drinks while mingling with fellow industry professionals with activities including glow golf and Jenga.
About the Emerging Leaders: The AICC Emerging Leader Program equips ambitious professionals (35 and under) in the paper-packaging industry with leadership training, mentorship, and exclusive networking opportunities. Participants gain access to executive roundtables, industry committees including government relations, paperboard supply and regulation, and industry education. They are also included in career development events, preparing them to become future industry leaders.
Companies benefit by investing in employees who are expanding their skills, building strong professional networks, and contributing to their organization’s long-term success.
If you are not currently in the Emerging Leaders program but are interested in joining, contact Chelsea May at [email protected].
https://boardconvertingnews.com/embracing-kaizen-emerging-leaders-aim-toward-growth-at-aicc-spring-meeting/
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