By Julie Echter, CNGA Incoming Board President
It is both an honor and a privilege to step into the role of President of the Colorado Nursery & Greenhouse Association this year. As someone who has grown up immersed in the green industry and has witnessed its evolution, I am deeply inspired by the opportunity to serve this incredible community of professionals who cultivate beauty, sustainability and growth—literally and figuratively.
Reflecting on the past year, it’s clear our industry has faced significant challenges, but we have also experienced moments of triumph. One of the initiatives I was most proud to contribute to in 2024 was aimed at addressing the labor shortage by connecting newly arrived migrants with job opportunities in the green industry. This project not only highlighted the resilience of our industry but also demonstrated the power of collaboration and inclusivity. I look forward to building on this momentum and pursuing projects that will continue to bring us together, foster innovation and drive positive change.
We have also seen important changes within the CNGA. While we were saddened by the loss of Ben Northcutt, we are energized by the addition of new team members, Meg Amendola, JP Malik and Rebecca Hansen. Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm are already making a difference and I am excited about the possibilities they bring for modernizing our association. One of my key goals for the upcoming year is to enhance our storytelling and marketing efforts so that we can better convey the value of CNGA to the green industry and wider community.
As we look ahead, the need for member feedback and engagement has never been greater. I encourage all of you to attend our events, connect with board members and share your ideas and aspirations for CNGA. Your voices are vital in shaping our objectives and ensuring we remain a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. Together, we can create a thriving industry that supports our businesses, our communities and the environment.
I am committed to bringing new energy to our tradition of hosting meaningful large-scale events that unite our industry and strengthen our sense of community. These gatherings serve as more than networking opportunities—they inspire innovation, spark collaboration and highlight the collective strength that defines us. My hope is that 2025 becomes a year of connection and growth, where we rise to challenges together and embrace new opportunities with confidence.
Thank you for entrusting me with this role. I am eager to serve and to contribute to the legacy of CNGA. Together, we can make this year one of meaningful progress and shared success. I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events and hearing your thoughts on how we can move forward together.
