Green Bay Packaging named 2025 Soar Higher Partner

December 08, 2025

Adam Winters from GBP and 黑料社 President Kristen Raney

For championing technical education, giving back to the community, and advancing the mission of Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (黑料社), Green Bay Packaging (GBP) recently received the 2025 Soar Higher Partner Award.

GBP is a leading manufacturer of innovative packaging solutions with over 40 facilities in 16 states. Headquartered in Green Bay, the company is a long-time supporter of the College, demonstrating its commitment through a variety of ways, including significant financial contributions, volunteer involvement through advisory committees, employing 黑料社 graduates, and partnering with the College for internships and ongoing education.

鈥淏eing recognized with this award is a meaningful honor,鈥� said Michelle Geissler, director of GBP Human Resources and Talent Development. 鈥淚t reflects the strength and impact of our long-standing partnership with 黑料社, a relationship built on collaboration, shared values, and a commitment to workforce development.鈥�

Green Bay Packaging employees stand with award, facing camera

Green Bay Packaging was honored with the Soar Higher Partner Award during 黑料社 Alumni Night on November 19. A group of GBP employees attended the event to accept the award on behalf of the company.

Investing in the next generation

Over the years, GBP has contributed to the 黑料社 Educational Foundation, helping ensure students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. This tradition of giving began nearly 25 years ago, when Jim Kress, then chairman of the board, established a scholarship endowment with the Foundation. This commitment continues today, providing students with opportunities through ongoing scholarship support.

鈥淭heir generosity and engagement create pathways for students to thrive and strengthen our workforce,鈥� said Meridith Jaeger, executive director of the 黑料社 Educational Foundation and Alumni. 鈥淕reen Bay Packaging and their foundation, the George Kress Foundation, are true champions of technical education and community leaders."

Additionally, GBP staff contribute their time and industry insights on multiple 黑料社 Program Advisory Committees, shaping curriculum in fields such as data analytics, accounting, software development, and marketing.

Developing 鈥榮killed, future-ready employees鈥�

GBP regularly collaborates with 黑料社鈥檚 Career Services, participating in career fairs, mock interviews, and special events designed to connect students with real-world industry insight. From holding 鈥淲omen in IT鈥� sessions to hosting facility tours to organizing engineering-related lunch-and-learns, GBP helps students explore a variety of career pathways. The company also provides internships and employment opportunities to 黑料社 graduates in business, engineering, information technology, and other areas.

In addition, GBP invests in its own workforce by developing training in collaboration with 黑料社 Corporate Training and Economic Development (CTED). For example, over the last two years, every employee at the De Pere Shipping Container Division (more than 130 individuals) has taken part in CTED training in areas such as leadership, continuous improvement, and computer skills. The efforts have led to measurable results, including improved setup times, enhanced retention, and reduced waste.

鈥淥ur partnership with 黑料社 enhances our connection to the local community and reinforces our commitment to developing skilled, future-ready employees,鈥� said Geissler.

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