In this episode of The Landing, I sit down with Rex Lowther, Executive Director of Future Natural Resource Leaders (FNRL), to talk about what it really takes to grow the future of forestry—from the ground up.

Rex started logging at just 13 years old, worked his way through the industry, became a teacher, and now leads one of Oregon’s most important student leadership organizations focused on forestry and natural resources.

We dive into:

• How FNRL is shaping future leaders in the timber industry
• Why hands-on experience beats classroom theory every time
• The reality of forestry education—and why programs disappear
• The importance of public speaking, leadership, and getting outside your comfort zone
• How industry support directly impacts the next generation
• Rex’s journey from logging, to teaching, to leading a statewide program

This conversation is a real look at the people and programs working behind the scenes to keep the timber industry alive and thriving for the next generation.