Tom Buckingham has been awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Michigan Association of Timbermen (MAT) in recognition of his pivotal role in shaping Forest Insurance Center Agency, Inc. into a leading force in the field.
Buckingham, a Newberry native, began his career at Forest Insurance Center in sales, where he earned respect for his hands-on approach—meeting loggers in remote woodlands, visiting sawmill owners at their job sites, and building relationships across the state. Known for his distinctive long hair and ponytail early in his career, Buckingham quickly became recognized not just for his appearance but for his deep industry knowledge and tireless work ethic.
His rise through the ranks culminated in his long-standing role as General Manager, where he played a critical role in the agency’s growth and strategic development. Under his leadership, Forest Insurance Center merged with Loggers Insurance Agency and Mauck Insurance Agency, and also secured significant deals with Superior Insurance Agency. These strategic moves helped expand the company’s footprint and solidify its status in Michigan’s competitive forestry insurance market.
Today, the combined Forest, Loggers, and Mauck Insurance Agencies operate as a $22 million enterprise—an achievement MAT credits largely to Buckingham’s strategic vision and steady leadership.
Forest Insurance Center’s roots trace back to 1991, when it was founded through TIMSER, Inc., an initiative of the Michigan Association of Timbermen. Over the years, the agency grew through a series of mergers and acquisitions, including the 2004 purchase of Mauck Insurance Agency and a 25% stake acquisition in 2008 by the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association. In 2014, Mauck Insurance expanded further by acquiring the assets of Loggers Insurance Agency, forming Loggers Insurance Agency II, LLC. Buckingham played a central role in each of these milestones, working closely with forestry industry leaders to ensure that company growth aligned with the sector’s long-term interests.
Colleagues and industry peers describe Buckingham as a leader defined by integrity, transparency, and a meticulous attention to detail. He has been instrumental in building a strong team based in Newberry, where he has kept customer service and client relationships at the core of the agency’s mission.
With this award, the Michigan Association of Timbermen recognizes not only Buckingham’s individual accomplishments, but also his broader contributions to the health and sustainability of Michigan’s forestry industry.
“Tom’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment, strategic leadership, and a deep respect for the people and the industry he serves,” said a representative from MAT. “He has truly earned this honor.”
