Letter #331: Red Emmerson (2019)
Founder of Sierra Pacific Industries | Ready for the Next Big Thing
*KG Note
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Intro
More on this newsletter here.
Red Emmerson is the Founder of Sierra Pacific Industries. (Full bio, summary, and related resources behind paywall.)
Letter
I have never been able to predict with any certainty what ‘the next big thing’ will be that transforms our business or our industry. But with certainty, I can tell you that there is a next big thing, waiting to be discovered by exploring new ideas and experimenting with technology in ways not yet imagined. While we pride ourselves on our ability to innovate and experiment with technology in our mills and on our forestland, in many cases we simply can’t afford to operate with less than proven technology. It’s rarely a good idea to rely on the piece of equipment with Serial No. 001.
So how do we help make sure our industry continues to dream and innovate while we figure out how to optimize the technology we have? That takes investment in the next generation of dreamers, designers, and doers.
Within these pages, you’ll read about Sierra Pacific Foundation’s investment in the new advanced wood products lab at Oregon State University. The science and technology being employed at OSU in developing the next big thing for our industry is inspiring. It’s inspiring to me and it’s inspiring to a whole new generation of young people seeking to sustainably and responsibly harness all the benefits forest products offer. They’re excited about the future of our industry and about all the possibilities waiting just around the corner.
In the communities where we operate, we also invest resources into local education to connect the next generation workforce with Sierra Pacific careers. Robotics (engineering/technology), career technical education (manufacturing/skilled trades), and natural resources (forestry/wildlife/botany) are just a few skillsets in which we engage – sharing the Sierra Pacific story and connecting who we are to students whose values align with the Company’s.
The return on the investments we make in science and education are difficult to measure. The rewards are not certain or definable at the time investments are made. “Leap of faith” may be a better expression than “investment.” After all, it is faith that drives us to put money and resources into the next generation and those institutions that will help to shape their future, which in turn will shape our future.
We don’t know exactly what the future holds. What research is being done right now that could increase the growth and health of our timberlands in the next decade? What technology is being developed today that could change how we break down a log in a mill? What new architectural concept will result in new window products? What’s the next big thing that will open up new markets for wood products?
We can be sure that good science coupled with fresh perspectives regarding how, when, and why wood is used will produce results that will continue to drive our industry forward. Connecting with our education partners and students will ensure a workforce excited about opportunities with the Company. When the next big thing hits, and the one after that, we’ll be proud that we played a part and will be ready to reap the rewards.
Red
Full Bio, Summary, and Related Resources below paywall