Kemira aims to actively build good relationships with the communities in which it operates by being involved in charity and participating in social initiative days in the realms of environment, education and technology. In 2012, Kemira set a target to further develop its community involvement work globally.
Kemira’s Atlanta R&D Center has developed a successful cooperation with a local private school, The Wilson Academy. The cooperation began from a visit where the students were given a detailed tour of the laboratories which also included staged reactions for them to witness. The highlight of the tour was the time they spent in the paper lab working hands-on with scientists and technicians making hand sheets and performing shade matches.
From that initial visit the R&D Center has also conducted a panel style career day for the school’s more senior students who have shown a strong interest in the science industry. The students were able to gain first-hand knowledge pertaining to educational paths and career options. Tony Alexander, Manager Employee Relations, gave the students insight from a Human Resources standpoint on what they can expect upon entering the job market after college. Three of Kemira’s R&D employees also volunteered to be judges at the school’s annual science fair which is normally judged by the teachers. The staff and students appreciated having industry professionals present to judge the projects and give feedback based on their many years of experience.
Read more about Kemira’s community involvement and sustainability targets.