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2 6 Pallet C e nt ral • S e ptem be r- O ctobe r 2 0 26 Annee Ferri is Woodpack Global's vice president of communications. She plays a senior role in leading the organization's communications with the members of Woodpack Global and the industry. She may be reached at 703.519.6104 or annee@woodpackglobal.org. Preparing The Next Generation Both families believe leadership must be developed through responsibility and experience. "It's not given to you," Rodriguez said. Future leaders need hands-on exposure to production, maintenance, sales, and customer service. ey are encouraged to ask questions, bring forward ideas, and make decisions while learning from experienced leaders. "Leadership isn't about having all the answers," she said. "It's about listening, building trust, and developing with others." At Harvey Pallets, that development includes room to fail. "e only way to become resilient and to really become passionate is to, you know, sometimes take a loss and say, okay, I'd never want to do that again. How do I get better from this?" Miguel said. He believes the next generation must be allowed to create its own projects and take ownership of the outcome. "at's the only way that you grow resilient and grow truly passionate for the business, [. . .] by making it your own," he said. "And that includes some mistakes, and there's nothing wrong with that." Rodriguez offers similar advice to other family-owned businesses: "Start planning early, whether you think you need to [or not]. Succession is a process, not an event." Her recommendation is straightforward: communicate openly, define roles, and give future leaders meaningful responsibility before giving them the title of leader. Looking Ahead Together During this year's Fall Plant Tours, both companies hope visitors will see more than equipment. "Many people think, manufacture is a simple process, but these facilities rely on advanced automation," Rodriguez said. She is especially eager to introduce the Chicago Pallet Service team. "You're going to see our culture in action, [which is] just "Both families believe leadership must be developed through responsibility and experience." SPOTLIGHT CONT. as important as seeing our equipment." Harvey Pallets shares that spirit of openness. "We love showing what we do and demonstrating it," Alejandro said. After more than a decade since the company last hosted, the family is looking forward to opening its doors, sharing its investments, and learning alongside fellow members. Every family business has its own story. e strongest understand that legacy is not something preserved behind glass. It grows through each generation willing to work hard, accept responsibility, listen to experience, and build something of its own.

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