NC State University is one of the leading universities in the United States in the field of biomaterials and paper science. In particular, the Department of Forest Biomaterials is internationally recognized for its work in sustainable materials, pulp and paper technologies, and close collaboration with industry. The department’s Paper Science and Engineering program combines engineering, materials science, and sustainability, preparing students to work in global industries where renewable materials play a key role.
TAMK and NC State have collaborated for over 15 years, especially through student exchange in the Paper Science and Engineering program. While student mobility has been at the core of this partnership, our current goal is to deepen cooperation further by increasing staff exchange between NC State and TAMK and by building more joint research activities.
We, Piia Kanto (Laboratory Engineering) and Pirre Hyötynen (Bioproduct Engineering), traveled to Raleigh with three main objectives: to strengthen collaboration, expand professional networks, and promote future research cooperation. The week was filled with meetings across campus. At the Wilson College of Textiles, we explored their textile education programs and laboratories. At the Nonwovens Institute, a globally unique collaboration platform linking industry, academia, and government, we learned how research can move efficiently from fundamental science to real-world applications through extensive pilot and testing facilities.
A major part of our visit focused on the Department of Forest Biomaterials. We visited analytical laboratories and pulp and paper facilities, including an impressive pilot scale paper machine, and discussed how teaching, research, and industry collaboration are tightly integrated.
One of the highlights of our visit was participating in the Pulp and Paper Advisory Board Spring Meeting and Celebration Banquet. This annual event brings together students, alumni, faculty, and industry representatives for a full day of discussions, networking, and celebration. It includes a board meeting, keynote presentation, and a networking reception and banquet celebrating graduating students and industry partnerships. The event clearly demonstrated how strongly the program is supported by industry and how naturally students are integrated into these professional networks. What made the experience particularly meaningful was the student presence. For example, during lunch, some of the students shared their study experiences with industry representatives. It was especially inspiring to hear one student reflecting on her exchange period at TAMK and how it had shaped her academic and professional path. At the banquet, each graduating Paper Science and Engineering student stepped forward to introduce themselves, sharing their studies and plans after graduation. It was such a great and inspiring moment!
Throughout the week, several common themes emerged in our discussions with researchers and industry partners. Topics such as sustainability, circular economy, and the role of artificial intelligence in future processes were repeatedly highlighted, challenges and opportunities that are equally relevant in Finland and globally.
Our visit confirmed that the partnership between TAMK and NC State is not only longstanding but also highly relevant for the future. The discussions and insights gained during the visit directly support the development of student and staff exchange and research activities between TAMK and NCSU, particularly in the fields of biomaterials, sustainable packaging, and applied chemistry. By strengthening staff mobility, expanding research collaboration, and continuing to support student exchange, we can build an even more impactful international cooperation.
Text: Piia Kanto senior lecturer in Laboratory engineering programme and Pirre Hyötynen senior lecturer in Bioproduct Engineering Programme, TAMK
