Factory Tour of Watson Furniture Group
Leadership Kitsap’s Economics Day was held at Watson Furniture on December 1, 2017. Clif McKenzie, CEO of Watson Furniture Group, gave an inspiring presentation of the guiding principles behind the sustainable, local manufacturing company. The class had the privilege of receiving a guided tour of the facility.
Kitsap Economic Development Alliance’s (KEDA) Board Vice Chair, Monica Blackwood, shared the exceptional value of economic opportunity in Kitsap County. Jim Rothlin, Executive Director Port of Bremerton complimented the discussion with the economic role of the Port.
Larry Nakata, Clif McKenzie, Julie Tapparo, Chris Rieland
Executive Director of PSNS & IMF, Rick Tift (LK00), expanded on the importance of a military and government presence to maintain Kitsap County’s economic stability. Wendie Johnson (LK14) walked the class through an overview of Kitsap County statistics and demographics.
A panel of local CEOs in Kitsap County shared their leadership experience and economic insights with the class. The panel included: Robert Baglio, President BJC Group; Clif McKenzie; Larry Nakata, Chairman Town & Country Markets; Chris Rieland, CEO Pacific Northwest Title; and Julie Tapparo, President and Owner West Sound Workforce.
April Leigh, Russell Steele, John Forsman, and Leonard Forsman
Leonard Forsman, Suquamish Tribal Chairman and Russell Steele, CEO of Port Madison Enterprises (PME), described the impact PME and the Tribe have had on the economy over the last several years including their many commercial activities and the expansion of the Clearwater Casino Resort.
Dora Summers-Ewing (LK12) led a group reflection of the Positive Leadership capacity of Advocacy. The day concluded with an engaging Advocacy activity facilitated by Poulsbo Councilman Ed Stern.
Thank you to our sponsors Advantage Nissan, Kitsap Building Association, Port of Bremerton, & Watson Furniture for making this educational day possible.
