Experience That Runs the Machine: Meet the Instructors Behind Paper Machine Operations
A paper machine is one of the most complex and capital-intensive systems in manufacturing. Its performance depends not only on mechanical design, but on chemistry, fiber behavior, clothing strategy, dewatering efficiency, drying dynamics, and the people operating it every day.
That’s why the strength of the Paper Machine Operations Course begins with its instructors.
This team brings decades of hands-on mill leadership, global startup experience, process diagnostics, and application expertise across forming, press, and dryer sections. Together, they offer participants a complete, system-level understanding of how paper machines truly operate, and how to optimize them. Join them from May 19-21, 2026, in Birmingham, AL to see the experts in action!
Meet the Experts Behind Paper Machine Operations:
Course Chair, Tom Rodencal & Associates
A TAPPI Fellow and former mill, research, and corporate technical leader, Tom brings decades of expertise in process diagnostics and high ash chemistry, connecting wet end operations directly to sheet structure, quality, and machine performance.
Application Manager Press, Albany International
With experience as both a European mill production manager and North American press specialist, Michael teaches how clothing selection and dewatering strategies drive press efficiency, energy performance, and runnability.
Director of Forming Applications, Albany International
Drawing on mill superintendent leadership and forming application expertise, Kevin explains how headbox design, drainage, fabrics, and fiber preparation determine formation quality and downstream results.
Director of Dryer Fabric Applications, Albany International
With more than 30 years in forming, press, and dryer applications and machine audits, John provides practical insight into dryer performance, fabric strategy, vibration analysis, and uptime optimization.
Technical Manager, Kadant Solutions Division
Our newest instructor combines control systems engineering and mechanical expertise with industrial applications leadership, Aaron delivers a systems-based perspective on reliability, auxiliary equipment, and process optimization.
Product Manager, Drying Products, Albany International
With 20 years of global dryer fabric design, manufacturing, and startup experience, Alexandre teaches how drying strategy and fabric selection impact energy efficiency and final sheet properties.
A Complete Machine Perspective
Together, this instructor team delivers more than individual section expertise. Participants gain a connected understanding of how:
- Wet end chemistry influences formation
- Forming impacts press performance
- Press efficiency determines drying demand
- Dryer configuration affects final sheet quality
- Mechanical systems and controls tie everything together
The result is a comprehensive, practical learning experience rooted in real mill operations, taught by professionals who have led startups, managed production, conducted audits, and optimized machines across the globe.
Register before April 21st to save almost $300 on registration!