40 Under 40: Jessica Oriente is a project engineer who’s passionate about the paper industry

Photo / Tim Greenway Jessica Oriente, 30: Project engineer, Sappi North America

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Jessica Oriente, 30 Project engineer, Sappi North America Read about all the 40 Under 40 honorees
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Greatest achievement: My greatest career achievement has been working as a project manager on Project Elevate, a $500 million conversion and expansion of Paper Machine No. 2 at the Sappi Somerset Mill. In my role, I had the opportunity to lead the civil, structural and architectural scope of the multi-year project and work with team members and companies from around the world. It was a technically challenging project that I worked on from the design conception through to construction completion. My work included coordinating efforts across disciplines to ensure successful implementation while maintaining safety and operational continuity during construction in an active manufacturing environment. Project Elevate doubled the capacity of PM2, making it the most advanced paper machine in North America. It was an honor to contribute to such a transformative initiative early in my career, especially knowing this will position the Sappi Somerset Mill for long-term success, producing sustainable products made from renewable resources.

Passion project: I’m most inspired by interactions with the younger generation who will one day be in my shoes. I’m passionate about giving back to the organizations that have shaped me into the person I am today.

Lightbulb moment: Every time a project reaches the turning point from conception phase to reality. It’s that feeling when you realize all the hard work and long hours have paid off, thanks to the resilience of you and your coworkers. I’m grateful that I truly love working in industrial construction, and I’ve experienced those lightbulb moments several times with different project teams.

Influential book: “Lessons in Chemistry,” by Bonnie Garmus

Favorite TV show and movies: “How It’s Made,” “Little Women (2019),” “Dead Poets Society”

Personal hero: My mother, who instilled in me a strong work ethic and a continuous drive for personal growth.

Favorite quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

Maine’s biggest challenge: Preparing younger generations to enter a technically demanding workforce. Fortunately, many organizations across the state partner with local schools to inspire and engage students in careers in construction and manufacturing. We need more of these programs. I believe expanding such initiatives will be key to sustaining Maine’s essential industries and ensuring a strong future for our workforce.

Dinner party guests: Taylor Swift, Francis Crowe, Sarah J. Maas