A Tribute to one of the 
founders of Bay State Envelope

James Skogseth

When a company makes such a positive impact on its employees, partners, customers and its industry, it is often due to founders who had an unusually bold dream and above-average determination. Such is the case with one of Bay State Envelope's founders, Jim Skogseth. This page is dedicated to his memory and legacy, so that more will understand the ideals and vision that Bay State is based on.

Born in Chicago, IL, Jim Skogseth had a long and distinguished career in the envelope and printing industry and was well known throughout the many organizations and companies in that industry. In 1969, with a degree in Printing Management from Southern Illinois University, he began work as a Management Trainee at Boise-Cascade in Addison, IL. As scheduler for their 3-shift operations, Jim began to learn the business and production workings of a high throughput print shop. Jim received several promotions at the IL Plant and was then transferred to the Boise Cascade Rochester, NY plant.

In 1981, Jim was recruited by Boston Envelope, Canton, MA to be their Plant Manager. During his years there he became VP of Production and VP of Sales and helped to grow the company significantly. His emphasis throughout his career was always very heavily weighted to production, scheduling and efficiency.

Jim moved to Walpole, MA when he was originally hired by Boston Envelope and stayed there until he formed a new company, Bay State Envelope. As its first President, he was instrumental in building this company into the highly respected and well-run entity that it is today. Jim's focus on quality was instrumental in establishing the level
of customer and employee satisfaction that is still evident today.	Jim Skogseth at an early Bay State Envelope  management Meeting, 4th from left

Bay State's reputation as a company focused on high quality, excellent work environment and unparalleled customer service is largely due to Jim Skogseth's attitudes, influence and philosophy about work, life and relationships.

Many current customers who knew Jim way back at Boston Envelope will remark at how they enjoy working with anyone at Bay State Envelope, because Jim's attitude was caught by everyone. Every customer service representative, machine operator, administrative professional and dock worker would show the same respect, courtesy and honesty that Jim did, and that is still true to this day.

Jim passed suddenly on June 6th, 2002 at 56. His son, Eric, is carrying on his legacy in the Envelope and Printing industry as Operations Manager of Bay State Envelope. The portrait (pictured above) hangs prominently in the boardroom of the Mansfield, MA headquarters as a reminder of the man who helped to shape the fine company that is Bay State Envelope.