We’re introducing some of the Forest and Wood Products (FWPA) team to provide a glimpse behind the scenes and let members get to know the people working on their behalf to strengthen and promote our industry.
Erick joined FWPA in 2023, bringing more than a decade’s experience in economics across academia, government and the private sector.
Previously working at the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling at the University of Canberra, the ACT Government, and KPMG, Erick’s roles have all required a keen eye for data and insights to support crucial decision making. This experience feeds directly into his role at FWPA, which he sees as “supporting industry capabilities with information, data and market research.”
With a doctorate in agricultural economics, Erick describes his role at FWPA as “returning to my research focus and coming back home to support Australian agriculture.”
Despite his data-focused remit, Erick explains that much of his responsibility relies on building relationships within the industry.
“An average week for me includes a lot of heavy engagement with stakeholders, from growers to processors and importers,” he says.
“It’s the best way to understand their business needs so we can support their strategies and decision making.”
This process of travelling, meeting with industry members, receiving their input and feedback and using this to align FWPA’s outputs to support their needs has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.
“In two years, I’ve visited probably 20 mills,” he says.
“Everywhere I go, I meet genuine, hardworking people who’ve been in the industry for decades and have such a commitment and dedication to this industry. They truly love what they do.
“It’s amazing to be around. This is a small industry in some ways, but it is full of these genuine, passionate people.”
For Erick, a particularly rewarding project was the More Houses Sooner report, which together with a three-webinar series on housing affordability explored what the forest and wood products industry can contribute to the significant issue of residential housing supply and affordability.
The report provides modelling on scenarios using timber to address housing supply issues, including increasing timber use in multi-residential constructions and increasing adoption of prefabricated home products.
“It received really positive feedback from the industry,” he explains, “because while many think of our sector as small in terms of general agricultural or manufacturing sector, we have a critical role to play in this major issue facing Australian society”.
“I think it was important for the industry to see that we are a key part of the solution.”
This connection to the residential housing sector is an aspect Erick wishes more people understood about the industry.
“Many think of forestry and timber in terms of logging and supplying wood, but they’re not aware of how much we support the construction industry and the work behind the scenes,” he says.
“There are so many technological advancements that have been put in place to improve the efficiency of how we produce timber products and increase productivity.
“It’s also such a flexible product with many possibilities. The industry has the solutions already to build houses more quickly”
For Erick, reading is the secret to staying sharp and in tune with global trends. His early mornings are a ritual: “waking at 4:30 or 5:00, getting a coffee, and browsing the newspaper, The Economist magazine” and other key sources. But it’s not all business – during the holidays, Christmas reading is a cherished family tradition.
When he’s not crunching numbers and meeting with stakeholders to better understand how FWPA can support members with critical information and data, Erick can typically be found outdoors.
“I believe everyone needs a hobby, and outdoor activities and travel are mine,” he says.
“I’m a keen cyclist and part of a community cycling club. I enjoy riding to work and making that contribution to ‘net zero’ but the community aspect is really valuable as well. Cycling clears my mind.”
He also enjoys bushwalking, with favourite hikes including the Razorback Walk to Mount Feathertop as well as many areas around Canberra, influenced by his 10 years living in the capital.
Originally from Indonesia, he recommends many east Asian countries for their amazing food and cultural experiences, but his bucket list location is a little further from home.
“The dream is to do a bicycle touring around Europe – but I’d need a good three to six months!” he laughs.
“The idea of slowly riding from small town to small town, stopping when you want: that’s the vision.”
Erick’s passion for both his work and personal pursuits reflects his holistic approach to life. Whether he’s analysing data to support the industry or cycling through scenic trails, he’s driven by curiosity, connection, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
