Podcasts

Season 1 | People You Should Know in Forestry and Natural Resources | Episode 10

#10 | Put yourself out there and volunteer!

November 3, 2016 | Joann Cox

Joann Cox was one of the first women to receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Texas A&M University. She is also a Fellow of the Society of American Foresters (SAF), and she is Past President of SAF, only the second woman to serve as President of this professional organization. In addition, Joann has 40 years of forest management, procurement and R&D experience; held key senior key senior management positions for leading forest products companies; and has most recently been a contract auditor for PricewaterhouseCoopers. On this week’s episode, Joann discusses what makes leaders great, the importance of mentors in our lives, and why stepping up and volunteering can be one of the best options for you at the beginning of your career.

Key Takeaways:

[2:13] Who is Joann?

[3:48] How did Joann end up at Texas A&M for her Bachelor’s degree?

[5:13] How was the transition from New Jersey to Texas?

[8:08] What was it like to be in a supervisor role for the first time?

[10:08] What’s the difference between leadership and management?

[12:03] How can people learn to inspire others?

[14:08] What is Joann most proud of, looking back?

[17:08] Joann talks about the importance of mentors throughout her career.

[19:23] How does a mentor differ from being a role model or a coach?

[21:48] What should young foresters learn early on in their career?

[26:08] Be persistent at volunteering, and put yourself out there.

[27:08] What kind of challenges will leaders face in the years ahead?

[29:15] Joann encourages young students to step forward and take on a leadership role. It is not as scary as you might think!

[34:08] Leadership isn’t always about the spotlight. It’s about finding out what’s best for your people.

[36:33] Are leaders born or made?

[38:18] Tom’s Leadership Tip of the Week!

Mentioned in This Episode:
www.essm.tamu.edu
www.leadershipnature.com