American Loggers Council Launches Young Leaders Program

Established in 1994, the American Loggers Council (ALC) is the national voice of professional loggers, representing all 50 states, focusing on federal policy, forest health, and workforce support, ALC serves as a unifying force the industry. With its mission and focus in mind, the ALC Young Leaders group was officially launched in Fall 2025 at the ALC Annual Meeting, gathering in-person to establish a coordinated effort to connect, develop, and empower the next generation of timber industry professionals. All ALC young logger-members and emerging business leader-members from across the country invited to participate in discussions on leadership, industry challenges, and what it means to shape the future of logging in America.

Following the initial in-person launch, the Young Leaders held its first virtual meeting in December 2025, reinforcing connections between participants. The group has quickly proven to be more than a networking opportunity, it’s become a space for meaningful conversations about how to lead in the woods, in the office, and in public.

Virtual participants discussed challenges like workforce retention, succession planning, and bridging generational gaps. Equally important were conversations about professionalism, communication, and how to represent the industry with pride.

“We’re all facing the same struggles,” one Young Leader shared. “But by connecting across states and regions, we’re realizing we’re not alone, and we can learn from each other.”

Practical conversations explored soft skills like communication and delegation, professionalism on and off the job site, and how to engage with schools and the public to change the narrative around logging.

ALC has committed to embedding Young Leaders into every major event and decision-making platform, including board meetings, strategic discussions, and policy advocacy.

Looking ahead, Young Leaders will play a key role in two of ALC’s signature events in 2026:

• D.C. Fly-In & Summer Board Meeting
  May 18–21, 2026, Washington, D.C.
  This year, ALC’s Summer Board Meeting will be combined with the D.C. Fly-In, offering a unique opportunity for young leaders to meet with legislators and gain direct experience in national advocacy.
• Annual Fall Meeting
  September 28–October 1, 2026, Williamsburg, VA
  The Annual Meeting will continue to offer networking, leadership workshops, and strategic planning discussions, with dedicated space for Young Leaders to contribute and grow. 

Visit americanloggerscouncil.com.