Green Bay, Wisconsin-based Green Bay Packaging has received University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic’s 2026 University Partner Award, highlighting a partnership centered on workforce development, student opportunities, innovation and the future of packaging.
Green Bay Packaging has made a significant impact on the lives of UW-Stout Polytechnic students and alumni by creating career opportunities and employing a strong pipeline of graduates across packaging, engineering, supply chain, business and sustainability-focused programs.
More than 40 UW-Stout alumni now work at Green Bay Packaging, with many giving back to the program by mentoring students, participating in the Packaging Advisory Committee and helping recruit the next generation of packaging professionals. The partnership is one example of how industry and universities can work together to connect students with real-world experience while helping packaging companies develop future talent.
Founded by George Kress in 1933, Green Bay Packaging now has 35 facilities in 16 states and Mexico and has more than 4,000 employees. As a family-owned company, it believes that business success and community responsibility go hand in hand.
The George Kress Foundation extends that commitment by investing in initiatives that strengthen communities throughout Northeast Wisconsin and beyond, with a special focus on education, youth development, health and human services, and community enhancement. Its mission is to create opportunities that improve lives and build stronger communities for future generations.
“Our connection with UW-Stout Polytechnic developed through a shared commitment to workforce development, innovation and student opportunity. UW-Stout Polytechnic is a valued partner because of its strong connection between education and industry, and it creates meaningful opportunities for Green Bay Packaging and the George Kress Foundation to invest in students while helping to strengthen the future of the packaging industry,” said Matt Murphy (’01), general manager of Green Bay Packaging Twin Town Division.
