LAIA: One Voice for Regional Industry for 25 years

by Haley Armand Tarasiewicz

For 25 years, Lake Area industry Alliance (LAIA) has successfully served as a channel of communication between industry and the community, civic leaders, elected officials, educators, and non-profit organizations.

“As the umbrella organization for our 25 member companies, LAIA is committed to providing factual information to the community regarding industrial operations that could affect residents and encouraging local industry to be good stewards of the environment and participate in civic activities,” explains Jim Rock, executive director of LAIA.

LAIA is multi-faceted with the overall goal of bringing industry together to enhance Southwest Louisiana. Rock shares 2024 statistics of the impact of LAIA-member industries in Calcasieu and Cameron parishes:
• $1.5 billion + direct payroll and benefits
• 8,500 direct employees
• $230 million in property and sales taxes
The impact of LAIA-member companies goes beyond financial contribution though.

Environmental Responsibility

LAIA member companies prioritize sustainable practices and work diligently to minimize their ecological footprint. By implementing advanced technologies and adhering to stringent regulations, local industry ensures their operations are as environmentally friendly as possible. The goal is to help reduce, recycle and reuse waste. This is both good for the environment and business.
“We actively engage in community initiatives, such as environmental education programs and local conservation efforts, demonstrating our dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the region where we live and work,” says Rock.
Initiatives include:
• Coastal Conservation Association (CCA)
• Vulnerable Habitat Restoration
• Community Tree Plantings
• Litter Pickups
• Native Grass Habitat
• Paint and E-Recycling Events
• Wide range of school programs and presentations

Safety & Security

“Protecting the safety and health of our workforce and the community is not only a key value for LAIA, it is at the core of everything we do,” Rock says. “Our member industries are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of workplace safety. Through rigorous training programs, continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborative efforts with local first responders, we strive to create an environment where safety is second nature. Our goal is zero harm, and we follow strict standards to achieve that goal. Safety is our culture, our highest priority and an inherent part of every job we do.”

Community Outreach & Engagement

Being a good neighbor means listening to ideas and feedback from residents in Southwest Louisiana. LAIA voluntarily formed a community advisory panel (CAP) in 2006 to foster open dialogue and understanding between the needs of the community and the role of local industrial facilities. Furthermore, LAIA member representatives serve on advisory committees for local education institutions to ensure programs meet local industry needs and uphold academic excellence. Members invest through funding, industrial equipment donations, and volunteer hours.

“Our partnerships with local education leaders and nonprofit organization are invaluable, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances educational programs, ensures workforce readiness, and strengthens the region’s economic and social fabric,” says Rock.

Volunteers from local industries contribute to countless organizations, with over 25,000 hours per year dedicated to local non-profits, Partners in Education, Chem Expo, Educators’ Institute, SWLA Women in Industry, and more.

“Industries have been in Southwest Louisiana since the 1940’s and are a considerable driving force for our economy and quality of life,” Rock says. “These industries provide careers with a consistent high level of employment, economic stability, and educational enhancements.”

To learn more about LAIA, visit www.LAIA.com.