LUKE, Md. - NewPage Corporation is looking forward to a productive year in 2008, as the Luke paper mill just recently received several pieces of equipment that will maximize its production and is also currently accepting applications for employment, according to President of the United Steelworkers Local 676 Tom Caldwell.
On January 30, the mill received its quarterly visit from the NewPage Senior Leadership Team, which met with union officials from the United Steelworkers Local 676 and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1653 (the two unions which represent mill employees).
Also in attendance were NewPage President and Chief Operating Officer Rick Willett, and George Martin, Senior Vice President for Operations, who shared the assessment to employees about the company's 2007 performance, as well as the company's plans for 2008.
Such information as total revenue, number of accidents and detailed performance was discussed.
“I was extremely pleased to see the large turnout for the employee meeting, and the Senior Leadership Team was especially complimentary about the Luke mill's 2007 safety and quality performance during their visit,” said Gary Curtis, Vice President-Luke Operation. “It was a great day for the Luke mill, and we are excited about the changes that will be occurring later this year as a result of the recent acquisition of the Stora Enso operations.”
Some changes anticipated at the mill is the conversion of paper grades that is being instituted in various locations to maximize production of different mills and bringing in machines from closed mills, said Caldwell.
“We are looking to possibly bring two newer super calendars to replace two of the four super calendars at the lower shipping facility,” added Caldwell, speaking of the NewPage distribution plant located between Westernport and McCoole on Route 135. “We will also receive a large sheeter from a closed mill out of Chillicothe, Ohio, as well as a wet lap machine that makes bails of pulp. When our machines shut down, we will be able to maintain the pulp mill and continue to produce the maximum amount of pulp.”
The following day, United Steelworkers, including international president Leo Gerard, visited with the USW committee for a meeting to become acquainted with international staff and local union officers.
“We are preparing for an upcoming contract due in December,” said Caldwell. “We are negotiating contracts for employees concerning wages and benefits.”
Caldwell added that he hopes to see increased job security in 2008, as well as increased hiring at the Luke location.
