Name: Chuck Coup
KWPA Role: Board Member
Tell us about yourself:
I’m from the little town of Milton PA, in the Susquehanna River valley, and the only forester in my family. My Dad is a real estate broker, and I always tell everyone that I made the decision to pursue forestry as a career in 7th grade during the third hour of an incredibly boring meeting on a “take your kid to work day.” It has proven to be a great decision for me (thanks Dad). Today, I live in Bellefonte with my wife Lori and daughter Anna (2).
What company do you work for? Tell us about your role and their services.
I’m the Program Manager for the Pennsylvania Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Implementation Committee (SIC). Our organization is one of 34 independent SICs operating across North American as a local grassroots element of the SFI Program (a North American forest and forest products certification system that promotes sustainable forest management and provides consumer assurance of resource protection in the marketplace). The Pennsylvania SIC operates a statewide training program for Professional Timber Harvesters, and works to foster an appreciation of conservation and forest management throughout Pennsylvania. As Program Manager, I handle all the day-to-day operations of the program.
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How did you get involved with KWPA?
KWPA has always been a strong partner and supporter of the Pennsylvania SIC. We both share a recognition that a sustainable forest products industry must be supported by well-managed sustainable forests.
Favorite part about the hardwood industry?
The people. I have had the pleasure of meeting so many smart, dedicated, and friendly individuals throughout Pennsylvania’s forest products industry. They recognize the many values and benefits of wood and have a great deal of concern for the environment. The KWPA Board of Directors provides a great representation of these folks.
What advice would you have for young people considering a career in the wood industry?
Be proactive. It’s a large and diverse industry with many great career opportunities to explore. Take some time to reach out and express your interests. Visit a sawmill or forest management office. Talk with a logger, procurement forester, or mill supervisor. There are lots of great people in the industry who would be happy to help set you on the right path.