Members of the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) in Texas have donated 15 copies of Fundamentals of Packaging Technology for use by University of Houston students. The donation supports a newly established packaging technology emphasis in the College of Technology's Digital Media program.
A globally recognized definitive resource on packaging technology, Fundamentals of Packaging Technology is the basis for IoPP's Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) Exam. Many major universities require this particular classroom packaging technology textbook, which costs about $300.
During a recent meeting with members of IoPP's Gulf Coast Chapter, University of Houston Visiting Professor, Jean Pierce, explained the new UH Digital Media Packaging area of emphasis and the College of Technology's vision to create a minor in packaging. In addition, Pierce related that UH ranks fourth in the nation as one of the 12 top colleges where students get the best bang for their buck. "Based on the university's commitment and ongoing objective to help offset skyrocketing student debt, this generous donation makes this valuable resource easily accessible to all students," said Professor Pierce.
"Most people think of "packaging" as pretty graphics on a box, without considering all of the elements inside or how the product will be protected during shipping," said Pierce. "My goal is to expose the students to a much broader perspective. Students will learn to create positive experiences for customers and get an overview of this complex industry. I am looking forward to the opportunity to educate Houston's future workforce about smartly designed eco-friendly packages that support business goals, logistics processes and specifications for shipments. The IoPP's support is an integral part of developing this program," she said.
According to Mike Eastman, Regional Vice President of the IoPP, "IoPP Chapters in Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth see this gift as supporting the UH cost containment objective and it supports future packaging professionals by giving them the best opportunity to be prepared for jobs when they graduate."
John Hayward, Gulf Coast Chapter President (Houston), and Brendon Quick, Tejas Chapter President (Dallas/Fort Worth), have also pledged ongoing support for the new program.
The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) is the leading individual membership organization serving the educational needs of the packaging community. It is committed to providing continuing educational programs of interest and value to all packaging professionals. These programs cover all packaging related areas of business and technology, as well as fundamental principles. The organization, its activities and operations support the development of the best possible packaging programs and events. For more information, please visit www.iopp.org.