A Printpack Associate Spotlight Series
Meet Shanavia Thomas: EHS Coordinator, Atlanta, GA
Shanavia Thomas, EHS Coordinator in Atlanta, joined Printpack in 2019 at the Villa Rica, GA. plant as a Plate Mounter on night shift while she was working towards her Bachelor of Science degree. Shanavia embodies the Printpack “can do” spirit in everything she does. Her hard work leading to her success at Printpack is an inspiration to us all.
After four years of working while simultaneously attending school full time (majoring in Health & Community Wellness with a minor in Business Administration), Shanavia received her bachelor’s degree in May 2021 from The University of West Georgia.
Clifton “Butch” Kilgore, Villa Rica I Pre-Press Supervisor, was her first Printpack manager in 2019 and remembers her coming to work every day with a smile on her face and a positive attitude. “When I hired Shanavia, I told her it was just a steppingstone to her career at Printpack. She always strived to do her best and to help others. I am extremely proud of her accomplishments.”
In January 2022, Shanavia applied for a position at the Atlanta headquarters and transitioned to the Environmental Health & Safety team as an Administrative Assistant. Just a few months later, she was promoted to EHS Coordinator.
Shanavia’s current supervisor, Dave Ellison, Director of Environmental Health and Safety, couldn’t be happier to have Shanavia on the team: “Shanavia is very dedicated, a quick learner and a hardworking individual who always has a smile. She strives to learn new things, continue her education, and grow with Printpack.”
Let’s learn a bit more about Shanavia’s career journey in her own words.
Q. Why did you choose Printpack?
A. I knew someone who worked in Villa Rica, and she highly recommended Printpack. I had never worked in manufacturing before, but I had great trainers and really liked the job and work environment. I also knew that there were many different opportunities at Printpack and that I would be able to grow my career and move to other positions here once I graduated from college.
Q. How has Printpack helped you in your career development?
A. I started as a Plate Mounter in Villa Rica. While working full-time at the plant, I was also in school full-time. My goal was to make it to Printpack’s headquarters and start growing my career from there. Some of the leadership team in the plant, such as supervisors and HR knew the goals I wanted to accomplish. I would have meetings with the HR Operations Manager to discuss everything I needed to do to start achieving those goals. My supervisor at Villa Rica, Butch Kilgore, was also so motivating and pushed me to be the best person I could be during my time at the plant. I achieved my goal of making it to the Atlanta office, and I can honestly say I couldn’t have done it without the leadership team at the plant.
Q. What helped you to be successful in your new role?
A. My trainer Marisa Stockwell was key to my success in my new role. She not only trained me well but also made sure I was supported along the way. If it weren’t for her, I’d have been lost. That’s also another positive characteristic of Printpack; they make sure they train and support associates who are going to new roles.
Q.What do you like most about Printpack?
A. The collaborative work environment, the people and the culture. My co-workers and leaders have always motivated me to learn and made sure I felt comfortable. I remember doing my homework during break time and people supporting me. There are also many opportunities within Printpack at plants across the country. In the future, I might want to try something else, and I know there are going to be opportunities here. Printpack to me is not only a job, it’s more like a family.
Q. Words of wisdom to those looking for their next opportunity just like you were.
A. Go for it and never give up. Come to work ready and hungry to learn, and push yourself to reach your goal. It was hard to work nights full time while being at school full time, but I kept trying until I got where I wanted to be. Keep applying for the positions you want, and pursue your dreams. I applied for three jobs before getting the one I am in now. There are always going to be opportunities and positions available. If you come in with the right attitude, you’ll get there. And lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out to people in higher positions. They’re here to help.
About Printpack
Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Printpack is a privately-held flexible and specialty rigid packaging manufacturer. Employing over 3,200 associates worldwide, the company operates 19 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico. With investments in leading-edge technologies and a deep understanding of customer needs, Printpack has partnered with the most successful CPGs to launch new products and grow market share. Printpack’s purpose, Preserving and Enhancing People’s Lives, is continually demonstrated by the commitment to sustainable products, active involvement in the local communities, and the empowerment of all associates. To read more about life at Printpack and our open positions, click here.
