Mr. Klass is recognized as an expert in development of coated and other
value-added papers, processing and use of recycled fiber, and application
of innovative technology to the paper industry. He graduated from Western
Michigan University with a bachelor's degree in pulp and paper technology
and received a master of business administration in marketing management
from Pace University.
Mr. Klass' four decades of paper industry experience include technical and operating positions with Oxford Paper, Union Camp, and Westvaco; editorial experience with Paper Trade Journal; sales/marketing management positions with Merck Chemical, Lockport Felt, Asten Group, and Inventing/BTG Coating Systems. In 1986 he became a consultant to the paper industry specializing in development of value-added and coated paper grades and marketing of innovative products and technology to the paper industry.
Mr. Klass is a Fellow of TAPPI, the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry and has served on the association's Board of Directors. His other professional affiliations include the Paper Industry Management Association, the Canadian Pulp and Paper Association, and the American Society for Testing and Materials. He has numerous publications on paper technology and marketing management.
He wrote the textbook for, developed, and teaches the annual TAPPI short course, "How to Market Effectively to the Pulp and Paper Industry." He has also served as chairman and chief instructor for the TAPPI short courses, "Introduction to Pigmented Coating Processes" and "Blade Coating."
Mr. Klass has also been honored with the TAPPI Paper and Board Division Silver Medal Award, the Harris O. Ware Prize for outstanding contributions to paper manufacturing technology, and the TAPPI Distinguished Service Award.
Klass Associates Inc. is a consulting firm specializing in commercialization of innovative technology in the pulp and paper industry. Assignments for paper companies typically include:
- Value-added grade development
- Market definition and market development
- Feasibility studies
- Acquisition and merger studies, analysis and diligence
- Selection and configuration of coating and calendering equipment
- Coating formulation
- Process design, selection and configuration of equipment for recycled fiber and deinking systems
- Quality improvement
- Training of personnel
Assignments for supplier companies typically include:
- Market definition and market research
- Strategic and tactical planning
- Acquisitions and mergers
- Marketing organization development
- Training of client personnel
- Promotional material development
- Introduction of new products to the paper industry
- Application engineering
- Audit of sales and marketing operations
The firm also develops and presents seminars and training courses dealing with development and manufacture of value-added and coated papers and/or the marketing of specific products and services to the paper industry.
Klass Associates Inc. accepts assignments on a professional fee basis (daily rate plus expense reimbursement). Retainer arrangements can be negotiated.
