Pictured: Joe Garzonie – General Manager, PCA/Lux, Alberto Treviño III – Commissioner Representing Labor, TWC, Mark M. Vera – General Manager, PCA/CTC (left to right)
WACO, Texas (Dec. 1, 2023)— Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) in Waco is the recipient of the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) 2023 Local Employer of Excellence award. Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas nominated PCA for the award, which was accepted by company representatives Thursday at TWC’s 26th Annual Texas Workforce Conference in Houston.
The Local Employer of Excellence award recognizes a private-sector employer from one of the state’s 28 local Workforce Development Boards whose efforts and initiatives have significantly impacted its workers, the community, and other local employers.
“We are very honored to be nominated and chosen as Local Employer of Excellence for the Heart of Texas,” said Mark Vera, PCA/CTC General Manager. “Our belief is that partnering with great organizations like the Texas Workforce Commission gives us an opportunity to offer a glimpse of the manufacturing world with all of its rewards as well as challenges. Both students and faculty are given agendas related specifically to our industry, and we at PCA are very excited to help out our local communities.”
PCA stands out as a leader in workforce development with its 150-year history of delivering high-quality containerboard and packaging solutions. The company’s commitment to fostering talent is evident through its collaboration with Workforce Solutions. PCA actively participates in hiring fairs and key initiatives that invest in the future workforce, including student welding internships, teacher externships, and the YES! Expo, Workforce Solutions’ youth career exploration event.
“Packaging Corporation of America is an integral part of our community and local workforce,” said Jose Palacios, Manager of Business & Industry Initiatives for Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas. “They provide continuous employment opportunities for our current and future workforce, as well as employee training and skill advancement. PCA’s contributions to our economy are deserving of this award and statewide recognition.”
Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas is one of 28 local workforce development boards in Texas that partners with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to provide workforce solutions to employers and job seekers. The Heart of Texas region includes Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties.