Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1516243
10 Pallet C e nt ral • Ma rch -Ap r il 2 0 24 W hat a whirlwind start to 2024 it's been at the NWPCA headquarters. Your staff is traveling abroad, raising the profile of the industry and the organization while putting the final touches on what promises to be a remarkable Annual Leadership Conference, March 20–22, in Florida. In early January, the exhibit hall sold out, the golf tournament reached full capacity, and attendance numbers surged beyond 600. NWPCA is adding staff and capacity to serve this industry better as we set the stage for a conference expected to break another attendance record. Read more about what's happening at NWPCA, along with insights from our President & CEO Brent McClendon on page 8. INSIDENWPCA NWPCA ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPCOMING EVENTS Gething Takes The Lead In Industry Collabora on On Sustainability N WPCA Vice President of Science & Technology, Brad Gething, PhD, recently attended a meeting of the wood products industry associations in Washington, DC. Hosted by the American Wood Council, the meeting sought to bring the various sectors of the industry together to collaborate on life cycle assessment (LCA) data and seek common ground related to carbon and climate principles. Having an existing LCA and published Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) enabled NWPCA to actively participate and share lessons learned with other associations. In December, Brad assumed the role of the North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO) Chair for the Industry Advisory Group. As the lead point of contact between the US industry and NAPPO leadership, Brad plays a vital role in collecting and reporting industry issues to the NAPPO Executive Committee. Additionally, he leads the US industry meeting at NAPPO's annual conference, providing a comprehensive update during the General Session. Brad also represents the US industry at three NAPPO Management Team meetings held throughout the year. Participation in these meetings is an incredible opportunity to showcase our industry's commitment and influence on a broader scale. Brad's expertise in wood science and the wooden pallet industry better positions NWPCA as a constructive partner in the ongoing efforts to advance safe trade practices while safeguarding US forests and agriculture. e Pallet Foundation's dedication to being leaders in these topics makes these meetings possible.