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Pulp and paper’s future leaders: Meet Tommy Ly

The future of the pulp and paper industry is in good hands!

Armed with a strong work ethic, initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to training and safety, the 2022 winners of our Top 10 Under 40 program are positioned to take the industry forward.

Whether they work in leadership, operations, maintenance, support or human resources, these pulp and paper employees are highly regarded by their colleagues and peers.

To highlight the achievements of each individual selected for the Top 10 Under 40 list, Pulp & Paper Canada will feature one of 2022’s winners every week for the next 10 weeks. Nominations for the 2023 contest open at the end of the year.

This week, we introduce Tommy Ly, production manager at Cascades in Vaughan, Ont.

Tommy Ly started his career as a general labour at Cascades in 2012. Since then, he has held a variety of positions in the company, advancing quickly due to his excellent work ethic.

During his tenure in the company, Tommy was lead operator on an Evol Press. While his technical abilities allowed him to excel, it was his natural leadership and ability to connect with others that led to his progression to shift leader, followed by project manager.

As project manager, Tommy successfully led the installation of a state-of-the-art Twin Evol.

“Tommy approached the project by prioritizing the safety and empowerment of the crew, which has resulted in the Twin Evol now leading the industry in terms of quality, reliability and productivity,” says his colleague Emmanuel Gingras.

In 2021, Tommy accepted the production manager position. Gingras says that despite the unique industry challenges, he has demonstrated outstanding commitment and has built an exceptional team of leaders. He actively seeks opportunities to improve himself. He took the initiative to complete SAP Super User training and Land Leadership development program. Tommy consistently inspires the team by modelling servant leadership, which has accelerated the plant’s performance. It boosts the morale of those around him.

Tommy is now a mentor and support for incoming leaders in a sister plant.