Brad Thorlakson

Vernon’s Brad Thorlakson has been awarded the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Forest Products Association of Canada. He is the third generation of the Thorlakson family to lead Tolko Industries. The company’s name is derived from every second letter of the family’s name. “Brad Thorlakson’s impact on the forest sector has been profound. He has guided Tolko Industries, a proud B.C.-based family business, for many years with visionary leadership and a deep commitment to Tolko employees, community well-being, and sustainability,” Derek Nighbor, president and CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada. Thorlakson was the company’s president and CEO from 2010 to 2024 before assuming the position of executive chairman. “My grandfather began our legacy in the forest industry 68 years ago. …I feel incredibly proud to continue and grow what he and my father built, a company committed to safety, with people who are passionate about sustainable forest management,” Thorlakson said.