“Adapting to a Culture of Change”
Our Association is fortunate to have a membership and staff whose efforts go beyond their professional requirements. Our association staff is well informed, industrious, and genuinely concerned about issues facing members. Our membership, unique on the national scale, has outstanding involvement and representation from all links in the supply chain.
Our industry is adapting to a culture of change. I remember as a young member, worrying when Richard Lewis replaced Ken Rolston. I thought Ken walked on water. I needn’t have worried. Richard and Ken possess different skill sets, but both were good for FRA. While their methods may have been different, their core values and passion for FRA were the same. Richard has done an excellent job, and I know Ken is proud.
Throughout two decades of changes our industry has continued to provide good jobs, utilizing a resource that we make sure is renewable and sustainable. We cannot forget the public’s confidence in us is re-earned every day. You and I know our industry is doing a good job. We see it and live it daily. But the public will form opinions based on what they see and hear. We must communicate our message confidently. We must show the public that we are good stewards of the land, safe on the roads, good corporate citizens in our communities.
I believe history will be kind to the forest industry. We produce products that improve the quality of life for everyone, and we do so in a manner that is safe to all. FRA plays a vital role as a clearinghouse for new ideas and better communications.
As my two years as your Chairman draw to a close, I would like to thank you for your support and friendship. I look forward to the future changes and challenges we face together.
Dick Carmical
FRA Chairman