Valdek Parik

I have served on RF BOD since 2017. I have been a member of Korp! Rotalia since 1985. I retired from Chevron after over 35 years employed as a Boilermaker, Welder and Certified Weld Inspector. This trade expanded my mechanical skills and offered experience in petrochemical industry maintenance and construction. Simultaneously, I served in union leadership positions involved in dispute resolution and contract negotiations with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers. I have been active in the Estonian community all my life, participating in Sunday School, scouting, folk dance and choir. I served as president of the Estonian Society of San Francisco and of the Estonian League of the West Coast. While our primary residence is in Oregon, my wife Kati and I spend our retirement traveling and participating in Estonian activities. I have California redwood forest property and am engaged in forest management practices while sustainably growing Redwood timber. I serve on the board of directors, including as President, for Forest Landowners of California, an organization representing nonindustrial forest landowners, promoting forest stewardship and advocating related forestry legislation. It is a pleasure to serve with our RF BOD members. I appreciate their experience and perspectives. My hope is for this foundation to continue its positive contribution in our international Estonian community.