Is your child beginning to prepare for their next steps after high school? Are you exploring career pathways that are the right fit for them? Whether your child is considering employment opportunities or continued education at a community college, trade school, or 4-year university, the corrugated packaging industry could be right for them. Access the below strategies and helpful resources on our site to help aid your career search journey:
Embark on a Corrugated Quest with Your Family!
Dear Parents & Families
As you begin exploring future opportunities with your child, it’s important to consider career paths that are not only stable and rewarding, but also aligned with the rapidly evolving world around us. One industry that often flies under the radar but plays a critical role in everyday life is the corrugated packaging industry.
You encounter corrugated packaging every day. In fact, more than 90% of products in North America are shipped in corrugated boxes at some point in their journey. From online deliveries to grocery store shelves, this industry is essential to how goods move safely and efficiently across the country.
What makes this industry especially compelling for students is the breadth of opportunity it offers. Corrugated packaging spans engineering, design, business, marketing, supply chain, and more. Whether your child is interested in hands-on technical work, creative problem-solving, or leadership roles, there is a pathway that can match their strengths and interests.
Beyond variety, the industry provides something many families prioritize: long-term stability. With over 100,000 employees and more than 1,100 facilities nationwide, corrugated packaging is a foundational part of the U.S. economy, offering consistent demand and strong career growth potential.
To help bring these opportunities to life, we invite you to participate in the Corrugated Quest Scavenger Hunt. This interactive, family-friendly activity introduces key concepts, highlights career pathways, and encourages hands-on exploration—all while sparking meaningful conversations about your child’s future.
We encourage you to complete the Corrugated Quest together and discover how this essential industry can open doors to rewarding, future-ready careers.
Warm Regards,
The International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF)
Get ready to become a corrugated detective! Get ready to become a corrugated detective! Your mission is to explore everyday places like grocery stores, your school, coffee shops or cafes, the post office, or even your house. Hunt for items made from corrugated cardboard—this is strong cardboard with a wavy, bumpy layer called flutes on the inside. As you search, keep your eyes peeled for sturdy brown boxes, trays or displays that help protect and ship items. You might spot pizza boxes, drink holders, delivery boxes, or packages on grocery store shelves. Each time you find a corrugated product, check it off the list below or add to your list! Remember, corrugated materials are a part of our everyday lives!
Discover what the corrugated packaging industry has to offer:
Ready to Begin Your Career Search? ICPF Can Help!
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