What has your day-to-day experience at the plant over these months been like, and which projects have you the opportunity to be involved in? What has been the most interesting for you and what would you say to your university classmates?
My experience at Hinojosa has been nothing but positive. I am currently working on the analysis of the optimisation of the process of applying starch in paper production. The most interesting part for me has been learning how a company operates and working with a marvellous team. To my classmates I would say, if you want to work for a company with a good atmosphere and great people, then Hinojosa is the place for you.
From the perspective of your own concerns and your education, what is it about the paper industry and a company focused on sustainable packaging like Hinojosa, that attracts you?
With the current climate crisis, the paper industry is very important, and this is especially true for the area of packaging. As a young person thinking about the future and the challenge posed by climate change, I know the importance of plastic reduction. Hinojosa attracts me because it is a company that aligns with my values.
Do you believe it is important to invest in young talent in the industrial sector in general and in the paper sector in particular?
Of course. I believe that it is essential to invest in young talent in the industrial sector because they provide an innovative perspective that is connected to the reality of the sector, thus contributing to the evolution of the product. Also, when it comes to the paper industry, a commodity that has existed for thousands of years, it is important to innovate in order to stand out from the competition.
In your opinion, what role does innovation play at Sarrià paper plant?
Optimisation has a really important role to play at Sarrià paper plant. It is the paper manufactured here that enables innovative solutions to be produced and transformed for Hinojosa.
As well as getting to know the industrial reality of a paper plant, you have had the opportunity to work in a new environment. How were you received in the plant?
The first day of any job is usually stressful, and for me it was even more so because I was in a new country. But these nerves soon disappeared: the team welcomed me with open arms. Knowing that I had someone to call on when I needed was also very reassuring. I have learnt a lot about the industry and discovered the Spanish culture, a culture I didn’t know before. Working in another country helps you be more open-minded. My aim is to work in the international division of a company in the future, so I need this open-mindedness.
Do you have any final words you would like to share?
My work placement at Hinojosa has been the best of all the placements I have undertaken as part of my school’s programme. The company provided an international experience and a good work environment with people who were willing to share their knowledge with me.
