In the heartland of Indiana, where industrial persistence meets innovative solutions, DS Smith's corrugated box plant in Lebanon has unveiled a compelling narrative of overcoming workforce challenges. Faced with a persistent labor shortage exacerbated by the pandemic and an influx of Spanish-speaking immigrants, the plant’s human resources manager, Becky Gordon, embarked on an unconventional approach to address the issue. Her strategy involved hiring full-time interpreters—a move that has profoundly transformed the plant’s operations and workforce composition.
The labor crisis at DS Smith, reflective of broader manufacturing challenges, prompted Gordon to rethink traditional hiring methods. Despite deploying billboards, job fairs, and community outreach efforts, the plant struggled to fill positions, resulting in significant overtime for existing employees. Gordon's observation of an increasing number of Spanish-speaking job applicants led her to a pivotal realization: the need for bilingual support to effectively integrate these workers into the plant's workforce.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Gordon hired Elissa Ramirez as the plant’s first full-time interpreter. Ramirez, a bilingual professional with a personal journey from immigrant worker to interpreter, now plays a crucial role in bridging communication gaps between the plant’s management and its Spanish-speaking employees. Her tasks include facilitating interviews, translating training materials, and assisting with on-the-job communication. The impact of this role has been substantial; the plant’s Spanish-speaking workforce surged to 42% from a mere 6% in 2022, and the time to fill positions was reduced by more than half.
The interpreter program not only addressed immediate staffing needs but also enhanced the plant's operational efficiency. With interpreters supporting the afternoon and overnight shifts, DS Smith has been able to fully staff a third shift, thereby tripling its box production volume compared to three years ago. This increase in productivity underscores the significant role that effective communication plays in optimizing workforce performance and meeting heightened demand for corrugated products.
Elissa Ramirez’s contribution extends beyond mere translation. Her role includes translating essential documents, from benefits information to machine operating instructions, and developing Spanish subtitles for training videos. Her work ensures that Spanish-speaking employees are not only well-informed but also fully integrated into the plant's operational framework. Ramirez’s personal experience as an immigrant worker adds depth to her understanding of the challenges faced by new employees, further enhancing her effectiveness in the role.
Monica Anderton, DS Smith’s Chief Human Resources Officer for North America, highlights the strategic advantage of the interpreter program. The initiative has not only improved the plant’s ability to recruit and retain workers but has also facilitated internal promotions among immigrant employees. Eduardo Vera, a Venezuelan immigrant who joined the plant as a custodian and is now a machine operator, exemplifies the program’s success. Vera’s ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and trainers, aided by Ramirez, has been instrumental in his career advancement.
Despite the success of the interpreter program, hiring remains competitive in Boone County, where the job market is tight with a low unemployment rate. Molly Whitehead, CEO of the Boone Economic Development Corporation, notes that DS Smith's approach is unique and underscores the company's commitment to tapping into an underutilized labor pool. The program has not only filled crucial positions but also fostered a sense of community and opportunity among the plant’s immigrant workforce.
