FRA Emerging Leaders Program
Developing the Next Generation of Forest Products Industry Leaders
The future of the wood supply chain depends on strong, innovative leaders. The Forest Resources Association (FRA) is committed to developing the next generation of industry professionals by providing opportunities to strengthen leadership skills, build meaningful connections, and gain valuable insight from experienced industry executives.
FRA’s Emerging Leaders Program is designed to equip high-potential employees with the knowledge, confidence, and professional development tools needed to grow into leadership roles and help shape the future of the forest products industry.
Leadership Development Through Experience and Connection
Led by Deborah (Deb) Hawkinson, Certified Professional Coach and FRA Past President, the Emerging Leaders Program combines personalized coaching, collaborative learning, and direct engagement with industry executives.
Participants gain firsthand perspectives from established leaders across the wood supply chain, exploring the experiences, challenges, and decisions that have shaped their careers.
Offered virtually and included as a benefit of FRA membership, the program makes professional development accessible without the additional expense or disruption of travel.
Program Highlights
- Executive Engagement: Four one-hour virtual group sessions featuring industry executives who share career insights, leadership experiences, and lessons learned.
- Personalized Coaching: One-on-one coaching with Certified Professional Coach Deb Hawkinson.
- Leadership Development: Personalized feedback and practical tools to strengthen communication, decision-making, and leadership skills.
- Industry Connections: Opportunities to build relationships with peers and senior leaders from across the forest products industry.
- Flexible Participation: A fully virtual format that allows participants to engage from anywhere.
Investing in Our Industry’s Future
As the forest products industry navigates workforce transitions and evolving challenges, developing capable leaders is more important than ever.
Through the Emerging Leaders Program, FRA is helping cultivate professionals who are prepared to lead, collaborate, and contribute to the long-term success of their organizations and the broader wood supply chain.
Now Accepting Nominations for Spring 2027
FRA encourages member companies to nominate high-potential employees who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to professional growth.
The Emerging Leaders Program is included with FRA membership.
To nominate an employee or learn more about the Spring 2027 session, contact Claire Gedde at [email protected].
FRA’s 2027 Emerging Leaders Program
Join Our 2027 Emerging Leader Session!
FRA’s past President Deb Hawkinson spearheads a dynamic and engaging program that offers young leaders in the industry access to group sessions that include keynote leadership speakers and personalized coaching sessions. The program is offered in 3 sessions per year and conducted via Zoom, allowing individuals from across the country a chance to participate.
Winter Session (January – April)
ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS
Spring/Summer Session (May-July)
ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS
Fall Session (September-December)
ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS
Resources
Building a Diverse and Resilient Workforce
Members-only contentRetaining and Developing Your Workforce
Members-only contentFRA 2020 Fall Board Meeting Emerging Leaders Workshop
Members-only contentTraining the Next Generation of Foresters: University of Minnesota’s Forestry Undergraduate Program
Members-only contentAPSAF Leadership Academy Produces “New Crop” of Natural Resource Leaders
Members-only contentRelated Articles
A Young Leader in the Wood Supply Industry
I have always had an interest in nature, so when I…
Foundations of a Forestry Leadership Program
Effective leadership is an essential component of organizational success.
Comprehensive Innovation for the Forests of Tomorrow
The University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is the…