FOREST & TIMBER PRODUCTS

Solving the Challenges of the Forest and Timber Products Industry through Collboration

Mission Statement: To create a more cohesive and coordinated communication between industry sectors regarding workforce and skills issues in order to identify skills gaps and workforce needs; and to develop curriculum with employer partners and educational partners to meet the identified needs.

Background: During the summer of 2005, several Delta County individuals representing various sectors of the Forest and Timber Products industry began meeting to discuss future workforce needs. The Timber and Forest Products Regional Skills Alliance formed in November of 2005. The Forest & Timber Products industry accounts for a significant share of the local economic activity and is a large employer in the Great Lakes region. While the national job growth forecast predicts negative growth with forestry education programs down nationwide, locally a significant number of individuals employed by this industry will be eligible for retirement in the next five to seven years creating a need for skilled workers. The Timber Products RSA was initiated in order to cultivate effective industry solutions. Topics such as training availability, educational opportunities and needs, workforce gaps, and skills gaps are of particular interest to the RSA. For more information or to become a member, please contact Rick Sanville, Michigan Works! The Job Force Board at (906) 228-3075 ext.217. Click the following links for more information: • www.timberrsa.org • www.northerninitiatives.com