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Pallet C e nt ral • Janu a r y -Fe b r u a r y 2 0 25 43 Future Leaders When young professionals enter any field, it can be hard for them to find their footing at first. e Future Leaders Council is meant to help develop the next generation of pallet manufacturing leaders. By bringing together young professionals with established leaders, these young adults get a chance to learn about industry trends and career trajectories. e manufacturing industry has a generational challenge: three in five young people are unlikely to consider a career in manufacturing-related fields. is means that we have a major responsibility to not only boost outreach initiatives in younger spaces but also to keep our future leaders engaged and satisfied in the workplace. Hispanic Council Dedicated to celebrating the cultural diversity within the wooden pallet industry and addressing the unique challenges faced by Hispanic professionals. By creating an inclusive environment, the council aims to ensure that all members have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. e mingles held during ALC provide an environment where everyone can contribute their unique perspectives and expertise. Committees & Councils e NWPCA also empowers members through several key committees and councils. ese groups address various aspects of the industry and work to ensure its continuous growth and improvement. Science & Technology Advisory Council is council drives research and innovation in the pallet and wood packaging industry. From exploring emerging technologies to optimizing material use, it plays a pivotal role in advancing industry practices. e council is responsible for identifying industry needs and trends, proposing research opportunities, and overseeing approved research initiatives in collaboration with committees, council members, staff, and the Board of Directors. Past/ongoing projects include landfill avoidance, market survey, and the environmental product declaration (EPD). Chair: LeRoi Cochran, Relogistics. Government Affairs Committee is committee is dedicated to advocating for policies that benefit the wood transport packaging industry. It equips members with essential tools and resources to actively engage in legislative efforts that directly impact their businesses. e committee works to shape a favorable regulatory, legislative, and business environment by fostering strategic alliances with customer end-user groups, other related trade associations, government officials, supply chain stakeholders, and relevant research and educational institutions. e NWPCA Political Action Committee—PalletPAC—and the annual Congressional Fly-In CONNECTIONS CONT.

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