Jason Ortega recently was appointed vice president-public affairs of the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA). He is a former Washington, D.C., lobbyist and in that role represented the association to members of Congress.
Pallet Enterprise: What are the legislative priorities for the NWPCA for 2022?
Ortega: Our legislative priorities for 2022 revolve around increasing our visibility in ongoing sustainability discussions and ensuring that Congress and the administration include us when resourcing a more resilient supply chain. Additionally, we anticipate that Congress will begin Farm Bill negotiations next year, which brings challenges and opportunities. Now, more than ever, we have the data to tell a unique and impactful story about our industry’s critical role within the supply chain. I am excited to carry this message to Capitol Hill.
Pallet Enterprise: Do you foresee control of Congress changing in 2022? Why or why not?
Ortega: I do, assuming historical precedent holds. Republicans have history on their side, especially in the House of Representatives. It is challenging for the party in control of the White House to win seats in midterm elections. The ongoing challenges facing the country and the economy strengthen the GOP’s hand.
Pallet Enterprise: On Capitol Hill, how has the overall public perception and reputation of the pallet industry changed over the last 2-3 years?
Ortega: The industry has always maintained a good reputation on the Hill. The supply chain crisis has brought us closer to even more members of Congress, and we’ve never had a higher profile. The NWPCA’s launch of PalletPAC, its political action committee, a few years ago was visionary and perfectly timed. The individuals personally supporting PalletPAC allow us to speak directly to congressional leadership and further heighten our visibility on the Hill.
Pallet Enterprise: What do you like about working with the pallet sector?
Ortega: I have worked with many industry associations. What I love about the pallet industry is how engaged our members are. They care about the industry, about each other and our mission. They are proud of their work, and it shows. That makes me love what I do and keeps me excited to show up to work every day.
Pallet Enterprise: You have been a lobbyist working with the pallet industry over the last few years. What is the biggest misnomer that people have about talking to a Congressional representative?
Ortega: People often forget that Congressional representatives are just people like the rest of us and that simply rattling off facts and figures won’t win the day. Don’t view the discussion as an adversarial political argument. Tell your story, your experience, how the policy you are advocating for is personal to you. Those are the conversations that have an impact and linger in a representative’s mind.
Pallet Enterprise: What’s the best business advice you have ever received?
Ortega: That long-term success boils down to people and relationships.
