From Process Engineer in Toronto to Operations Leader in Macon: Meet Caroline Forbes

After six years as a Process Engineer at Irving Tissue in Toronto, Ont., Caroline Forbes has taken her next step and become an Operations Leader at Irving Tissue’s plant in Macon, Ga. She sees this as a natural and exciting progression in her career. 

 “As a Process Engineer, I've worked with the paper mill team to improve processes and was a technical resource,” she said. “During my time in Toronto, I gained valuable experience working with TAD (ThruAir Drying) technology, spending my last year focused on broadening my knowledge. That experience made me realize how much I enjoy supporting the team wherever I can. Moving into an Operations Leader role gives me the opportunity to apply that experience on a different TAD machine in Macon, while continuing to support the team in safety, quality and production.”

For Caroline, the transition is about growth — both for herself and for her new team. 

“The Operations Leader role will give me the opportunity to learn from and grow with a different group of co-workers,” she said. “I'm hopeful I can support the team in its success and develop my people management skills through this new role.”

 When asked what advice she would give to those considering a career in engineering, Caroline emphasized curiosity and continuous learning. 

“My advice would be to embrace lifelong learning as there are new challenges and problems to solve every day as a Process Engineer, which is what makes it such an interesting field,” she said. “Staying curious and learning from experienced mentors will go a long way in any career, but especially in pulp and paper!”