Jacob Elskamp

Background

About Jacob Elskamp

I am currently a senior at Washington State University studying chemical engineering. Two years ago, I added a business administration minor. I want to use this minor to enhance my skills in management, accounting, and finance. In addition to my strong academic foundation, I am a quick learner, adapt easily to different environments, have solid interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic. Currently, I am looking for an opportunity that combines engineering with business. My chemical engineering degree, business minor, and past experience in the pulp and paper industry would make me a good fit for a vendor/sales company. Long term, I hope to work in chemical sales. Outside of academics, I enjoy staying active physically and socially. I love camping and fishing and making trips up the Selway River. I also am an avid golfer and skier/snowboarder. In 2022, I worked at Clearwater Paper in Lewiston, ID as a process engineering intern. My area of work was focused on the paper machines. I spent my first 3-4 weeks learning the pulp and paper process from the wet end to the winders. I spent a lot of time learning about the chemicals that are used, and the properties they impart, and did some minor projects on optimization. I now have experience using PARCView and PI systems for data analysis. I also learned how to gather and interpret trial data to ultimately evaluate trial success. Most importantly, I learned how process engineers format their data and present their findings to their bosses and coworkers. This summer, I had the opportunity to work with Ecolab (Nalco Water) in Wauna, OR as a technical sales engineer intern. I learned a lot about writing technical reports, and how vendors play a role in the pulp and paper industry. I created and delivered technical reports to customers. I also gained experience organizing and leading sales meetings. Additionally, I completed lab testing to evaluate chemical quality and effectiveness on the wet end of a paper machine. My experience in process engineering and technical sales gives me a unique perspective on pulp and paper manufacturing. I gained valuable knowledge working as a process engineer intern for a production company (Clearwater Paper). My last internship (Ecolab) introduced me to vendor companies and the importance of being a good sales representative. Having experience inside and outside of mill, I am confident to start a full time position.