2 minute read
FMIC 3rd Quarter 2022
VIRGINIA
Virginia Loggers Association
Ron Jenkins, Executive Director, Virginia Loggers Association
Leadership has a valuable role in everything we do, and 2022 is no different from 2002. Trade associations need clear leaders who understand the times, create a vision, and clearly communicate a plan.
In 2002, Virginia Loggers Association began its trade associations activities with modest resources but a big vision and clear goals. A few logging business owners realized their situation needed advocacy they could not provide for themselves. After all, logging has specific challenges different from other businesses.
Making the vision and plan come together meant membership and financial resources. Leadership was now needed from a different source and one that could add foundation strength and unify an industry.
Forestry Mutual Insurance with Keith Biggs and his team had a vision and commitment to help fledging trade associations get the boost they needed. In 2004, Stephen Covey, an internationally recognized leadership authority, authored the book titled “The 8th Habit - From Effectiveness to Greatness.” Covey was inspired to help people find their voice and inspire others to find theirs.
L - R: Mark Britton, Jack Swanner, Keith Biggs, Bernard Rose 2016 Drivers' Appreciation Day at former Kapstone, Roanoke Rapids
Victor Hugo is associated with the quote, “there is nothing so powerful as an idea whose time has come.” Keith Biggs and his team at FMIC had the right leadership and idea at the right time.
Fifty years later, FMIC now reflects on its own journey and prepares for the next fifty. VLA is substantially stronger because of Forestry Mutual and Keith. We appreciate Keith and FMIC.
VLA’s great friend Keith Biggs has announced his retirement. VLA will miss Keith and wishes him the very best!
VLA faces different challenges today! Our financial resources are stronger, and our leaders have a clear vision, goals, and a plan to achieve them! We will continue working with FMIC leaders to gain strength for members and unity for our industry.
