A Vernon man has been recognized for his years of experience in the forestry sector.

Brad Thorlakson was honoured with the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) Awards of Excellence. 

The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates visionary leaders who have made remarkable and sustained contributions to the forest products sector.

"Brad Thorlakson鈥檚 impact on the forest sector and on FPAC has been profound," said FPAC president and CEO Derek Nighbor. "Brad's decades of leadership and engagement have benefited the sector well beyond Tolko."

For 14 years, Thorlakson served as president and CEO of Tolko (2010-2024) before transitioning to the role of executive chairman. 

Thorlakson began his career at the Lavington Planer Mill, rising through the ranks to become VP of Marketing and Sales before assuming the head role at Tolko. As the third member of the Thorlakson family to run Tolko, his growth of the company has been "instrumental," while maintaining its core values of safety, sustainability, and excellence in product delivery. 

"My grandfather began our legacy in the forestry industry 68 years ago and as a generational, family-owned company," said Thorlakson. "I feel incredibly proud to continue to grow what he and my family built; a company committed to safety, with people who are passionate about sustainable forest management."