HM_May14 - cover_ver1.indd - National Hardwood Lumber

Transcription

HM_May14 - cover_ver1.indd - National Hardwood Lumber
M AY 2 01 4
H A R DWO O D M AT T E R S
T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWOO D I N D U ST RY
NHLA ATTENDS CIFM INTERZUM
IN GUANGZHOU, CHINA
T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E N AT I O N A L H A R D W O O D L U M B E R A S S O C I AT I O N
S T R O N G R O O T S . G L O B A L R E A C H . | W W W. N H L A . C O M
We deliver more than lumber...
We deliver results.
We Deliver On Time.
You set the date, we’ll be there.
We Deliver As Specified.
With our broad product line of Pike Brand® hardwoods,
we can mix a load to fill the most demanding needs.
We Deliver Consistency.
Tight manufacturing specifications, careful kiln drying,
and inspection will insure consistent lumber load after
load, day in and day out. And We Guarantee It.
®
P.O. Box 247
Akron, Indiana 46910
Sales@PikeLumber.com
www.PikeLumber.com
(800) 356-4554
(574) 893-4511
(574) 893-7400 fax
DEPARTMENTS
12
16
17
18
20
21
Member to Member
Education Spotlight
Foundation Focus
Rules Corner
Legislative Log
READER SERVICES
4
President’s Message
6Executive Director’s Message
7
Inside NHLA
10
Letter to the Editor
22Calendar
23
Job Board
IN THIS ISSUE...
12
NHLA ATTENDS CIFM INTERZUM
GUANGZHOU, CHINA
by Michael Buckley, Turnstone Singapore
CONTENTS
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S 1
May 2014 ▪ Issue 145
National Hardwood Lumber Association
PO Box 34518 ▪ Memphis, TN 38184-0518
901-377-1818 ▪ 901-382-6419 (fax)
info@nhla.com ▪ www.nhla.com
H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWO O D I N D U ST RY
THE MISSION OF NH LA
To serve NHLA Members engaged in the commerce of
North American hardwood lumber by: maintaining order,
structure and ethics in the changing global hardwood
marketplace; providing unique member services;
promoting North American hardwood lumber and
advocating the interest of the hardwood community
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
MISSION LEADERS
Scott Heidler
Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co.
President
Skip Holmes
Thomas & Proetz Lumber Co.
Unique Services
Pem Jenkins
Turn Bull Lumber Co.
Vice President
Charlie Netterville
Fred Netterville Lumber Co.
Industry Advocacy & Promotion
Dave Redmond
Highland Hardwood Sales, Inc.
Past President 2010–2012
Greg Patenaude
Péladeau Lumber, Inc.
Membership & Marketing
Mark A. Barford, CAE
Executive Director
Brent Stief
Huron Forest Products
Structure
NHLA STAFF
Gary Swaner
Swaner Hardwood Co.
Rules
Mark A. Barford, CAE
Executive Director
m.barford@nhla.com
in public/private policy issues; and providing a platform
for networking opportunities.
David George
Creative Director
d.george@nhla.com
Renee Hornsby
Director of Communications/Editor
r.hornsby@nhla.com
About the Cover:
Attendees visit the U.S. Hardwood booth at the
2014 CIFM interzum Showcase in Guangzhou, China.
■■■
Rich Hascher
Inspector Training School Instructor
John Hester
Director of Membership
Dana Spessert
Chief Inspector
Denise Stewart
Director of Finance/CAO
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Jeff Durst
Hull Forest Products
Inspection Services
Orn Gudmundsson, Jr.
Northland Corporation
Communications &
Marketing/Finance
Mark Mah
Upper Canada Forest Products
Hardwood Advocacy
Darwin Murray
McClain Forest Products
Continuing Education
Jim Reader
Downes & Reader Hardwood Co.
Membership
Joe Snyder
Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc.
Rules
Jim Steen
Pike Lumber Co., Inc.
Inspector Training School
Kim Vollinger
W. M. Cramer Lumber Co.
Convention
For advertising inquiries:
Contact John Hester, Director of Membership at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558.
ADVERTISER INDEX
2
22
Augusta Lumber Company, Inc.
5
NHLA Inspector Training School
9
U•C Coatings Corporation
24
Brunner-Hildebrand
3
8
USNR
7
Dunavant Global Logistics Group
Pennsylvania & Indiana Lumbermens
Mutual Insurance Companies
ibc
The Jacobs Team
ifc
Pike Lumber Company, Inc.
bc
NHLA Convention
11
SFPA Expo
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
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the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies. All rights reserved.
© 2014 National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
SHARED PURPOSE. MUTUAL VALUES.™
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
3
PRESIDENT’S
MESSAGE
LAS VEGAS
So I am told, by the month that appears on the calendar, that it is now May and winter is
finally over! As I sit here at my desk in Chicago, I am not sure I can believe this, as it has
been a really tough and long lasting winter. As we all plan for the warm summer months
ahead, make sure not to overlook Early Bird Registration for the 116th NHLA Annual
Convention and Exhibit Showcase.
NHLA will host the 2014 Annual Convention October 8–10 at the beautiful Red Rock
Casino, Resort & Spa nestled by the foothills of Red Rock Canyon, just 20 minutes from
the Vegas strip. The resort offers everything from fine dining to casual relaxation by the
incredible pool complex, to a full casino and spa, bowling alley and movie theatre. As
always, there will be plenty of opportunities for networking at the various bars or by the
pool! Please take advantage of the Early Bird Registration period from April 15 to June 6
to receive a $50 discount on registration fees and an additional $100 discount if you book
and stay at the Official Convention Hotel (Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa).
This year’s convention will continue to build on the NHLA vision, “To Be The Global
Standard For Hardwood Trade And Commerce,” with representatives from many
Partner Member firms from around the world joining us in Las Vegas. What a wonderful
opportunity to meet some of the largest consumers of North American hardwoods from
around the globe.
I would like to personally thank Lumbermen’s Underwriting Alliance (LUA) for
their continuous support as the NHLA Convention & Exhibit Showcase Presenting
Sponsor. This is the tenth consecutive year that LUA has been the sponsoring force
behind the NHLA Convention. There are many other sponsorship opportunities available
to help NHLA deliver a convention experience unrivaled by any other association in
our industry. From the Opening Reception and Keynote Speaker, to the Educational
Seminars, Networking Opportunities and the Grand Finale, the 2014 Convention is not
something your company can afford to miss. For sponsorship opportunities please contact
John Hester at 901-399-7558. As our industry continues to improve, remember that the
networking opportunities over the three days are critical for the continued prosperity for all.
I would like to compliment the Convention Committee for an agenda packed with
opportunities for all. For more information about the convention and to register visit
the NHLA convention website at www.nhlaconvention.com and be on the look out for
Convention Hardwire e-blasts and another Hardwood Matters article from me, with
additional details about this year’s convention. You can also get convention updates when
you follow on twitter at:@NHLA_Convention
Here’s to warm weather and betting that I see you Vegas.
Please take advantage
of the EARLY BIRD
REGISTRATION period
from April 15 to June 6 to
receive a $50 discount on
registration fees and an
additional $100 discount if
you book and stay at the
Official Convention Hotel
(Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa).
Respectfully,
Scott Heidler
Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co.
4
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
¿HABLAS ESPAÑOL?
NOW ENROLLING!
2014 SUMMER BILINGUAL PROGRAM
June 2 – August 8
Inspector Training School
NHLA Headquarters | Memphis TN
2014 FALL PROGRAM
September 3 – November 21
Inspector Training School
NHLA Headquarters | Memphis TN
NHLA is Proud to Announce
the Inspector Training School
Bilingual Spanish 175th Class
This summer, NHLA will host a Bilingual Spanish Inspector Training
School Class at NHLA headquarters in Memphis, TN – June 2 to August
8 with the use of Spanish language interpreters. Class hours will be
8am to 4pm, Monday through Friday. Students of the program will also
participate in scheduled NHLA member company visits and have the
opportunity to network with North American suppliers.
Space is limited, enroll early! NHLA would like to encourage domestic
members with Spanish speaking employees to participate and share
this information with their Spanish language lumber buyers or overseas
agents/employees. This course is also open to English speaking students.
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Register online at nhla.com or contact NHLA Chief Inspector
Dana Spessert for more information at 901-399-7551 or email
d.spessert@nhla.com
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
NHLA.COM
SUMMER SHORT COURSES
Memphis, TN | May 7–11 | NHLA Headquarters
Millersburg, OH | June 9–12 | Yoder Lumber
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Randolph, NY | June 23–26 | Raber’s Mill
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sandy Lake, PA | July 21–24
McKeever Environmental Learning Center
3-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sherwood, OR | August 5–7 | Hardwood Industries
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Memphis, TN | August 18–22 | NHLA Headquarters
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
5
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
MESSAGE
CONVENTION KEYNOTE SPEAKER
BILL TAYLOR ALL ABOUT BIG IDEAS
Answer honestly this question. Are you one of those that believe manufacturing in
North America is going to further decline? Keynote Speaker, Bill Taylor doesn’t think
so. Do you have plans for managing your company in these changing times? Bill
Taylor does, and will share those with you on October 9.
Are you open to some new big ideas? Then come hear Keynote Speaker Bill Taylor at
the 2014 NHLA Annual Convention being held in Las Vegas October 8–10. Unlike
previous years where NHLA brought in a headlining sports or political speaker, the
convention committee has chosen a business heavyweight with a proven record of
success and a promise to leave attendees talking and thinking about new ideas for
adapting their business for success.
Bill is a writer, a speaker, and entrepreneur who has shaped the global conversation
about the best ways to compete, innovate and succeed. As co-founder and founding
editor of Fast Company, Bill launched a magazine that won countless awards, and
earned a passionate following among executives and entrepreneurs around the world.
His previous book, Mavericks at Work: Why the Most Original Minds in Business
Win, was a New York Times and Wall Street Journal best seller, and was named a
“Business Book of the Year” by The Economist and the Financial Times.
Bill’s new book, Practically Radical, was published January 2011 by William
Morrow, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers. Bestselling author Daniel H. Pink
calls Practically Radical “the most powerful and instructive change manual you’ll
ever read.” Anne Mulcahy, former chairman and CEO of Xerox, calls it “a handbook
for successful transformation and a great tutorial for implementing your change
agenda.” Bill is a graduate of Princeton University and the MIT Sloan School of
Management, and lives in Wellesley, Massachusetts with his wife and two daughters.
My favorite quote and I think most applicable to our group comes from Arianna
Huffington who says: “The ideas are fresh, the advice is stuff you can actually use,
and the results will be tangible.”
Bill Taylor is a true business guru, and I look forward to hearing his ideas of
growth for our industry.
Get to know Bill Taylor and his business philosophy by:
following him on Twitter: @practicallyrad
visiting his Website: williamctaylor.com
reading his Blog on the Harvard Business Review: blogs.hbr.com/bill-taylor/
liking him on Facebook: maverickbill
check out his CNN interview on the NHLA website: nhla.com/speakers.
I am looking forward to seeing you there, and discussing some of those ideas
with you. Times are better for the hardwood lumber industry, but great times
still lie ahead.
6
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
Arianna Huffington speaks
of Bill Taylor: “The ideas are
fresh, the advice is stuff you
can actually use, and the
results will be tangible.”
The staff looks forward to continuing to serve
the industry – and helping to grow the largest
hardwood association in the world!
Sincerely,
Mark Barford, CAE, Executive Director
National Hardwood Lumber Association
www.nhla.com
W W W. N H L A .CO M
INSIDE NHLA
MEMPHIS LUMBERMAN AND OSCAR
WINNER PENS MOTIVATIONAL BOOK
Off the heels of an Oscar win for a documentary showcasing his work with
inner-city high school football players and his desire to provide them with
opportunities that will help them rise from the inner-city knocks, Memphis
lumberman Bill Courtney is sharing his life principals in his new book,
Against the Grain, with the world.
“As much as I hope that the lumber company I founded and the teams I’ve
coached will be part of my legacy to my own four children, I’d throw those
accomplishments away in a second if I thought they detracted too much
from my most critical job: teaching them the tenants I cherish (character,
commitment, civility and service),” Courtney writes.
To preorder Against the Grain which will be published May 13, 2014, visit
www.coachbillcourtney.com.
WE ARE YOUR SINGLE SOURCE SOLUTION.
From domestic transportation to international logistics, we are driven
to provide superior customer service and get your needs squared away quickly.
Visit us in Booth #406 at the NHLA Annual Convention in September.
888.955.3547
W W W. N H L A .CO M
DUNAVANT.COM
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
7
INSIDE NHLA
NHLA EXPANDS SHORT COURSE
OFFERINGS IN CHINA
NHLA continues its efforts to teach
the world the NHLA grading Rules.
NHLA conducted a flex-day lumber
grading short course (March 10–13)
at Tianrun International Lumber
Company in Dalingshan,
Dongguan City, China.
The host company, Tianrun opened
its spacious conference room for
twenty-five students from different
lumber companies of Guangdong
province and provided the NHLA
instructor, Roman Matyushchenko
with all necessary equipment.
The first two days of the course were
devoted to studying the basics of the
hardwood grading Rules followed
by two days of practice grading and
more details.
All the participants showed great
results. Fifteen of the twenty-five
students attended all four days
of the course and were issued
NHLA certificates.
If your company is interested in
hosting a short course at your
facility and want your employees to
comprehend the Rules, please contact
the Chinese Program coordinator
Mr. John Wang at 136 0268 2276 or
j.wang@nhla.com. The course is free
for the host company.
Millwide. Worldwide.
8
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
INSIDE NHLA
Wrapping up the trip, Spessert, Hester and Wang along with
NHLA International Inspector, Roman Matyushchenko, and
NHLA’s Northern China representative Li Tao, attended the
interzum Show in Guangzhou, China. During the show the
NHLA team met with hundreds of North American hardwood
lumber buyers, sellers and traders. The show organizer invited
Chief Spessert to present North American hardwoods at an
educational seminar about sustainable design. The seminar was
well attended and well received by the attendees.
®
Recently NHLA Chief Inspector, Dana Spessert and Director
of Membership, John Hester travelled to South East China.
While in the vast country they spent time traveling through
the various lumber markets with NHLA’s China Program
Director, John Wang, visiting with members and non-members
alike to promote the use of North American hardwoods. The
major question quick emerged from the visits was the shortage
of supply and when the shortage might be corrected. Chief
Inspector Spessert explained that the timber supply in North
America remained plentiful and that the major hurdles of
weather, lower overall production and lack of loggers were
among the major causes of the supply shortages.
LogSavers /FlitchSavers
NHLA ATTENDS INTERZUM
IN GUANGZHOU, CHINA
You Bring THE WOOD ...
®
We’ll Bring THE PROTECTION™
Protect your logs (and your fingers),
with LogSavers ® and FlitchSavers ® .
1 - 8 8 8 - E N D - C O AT s a l e s @ u c c o a t i n g s . c o m
w w w. u c c o a t i n g s . c o m
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
9
LETTERS TO
THE EDITOR
SUCCESS FACTORS FOR THE HARDWOOD CHECK-OFF
PROGRAM DO NOT FIT HARDWOOD LUMBER
As we approach the decision point regarding the proposed Hardwood
Check-Off Program, one critical question is whether the commodity
check off concept fits our industry. Many academic agricultural
economists have studied the check off programs and some have focused
on the common characteristics of successful check-offs.
A broad research paper, (“Check-Off Program Evaluation: Why,
What, How, When, And Who?” by Williams, Davis, and Nichols
of Department of Agricultural Economics, Texas A&M University)
surveyed a wide range of check-off programs in effect in the U.S.
The conclusions of this survey were largely favorable with respect to
the programs included in the review. However, the paper also lists
and explores a number of market characteristics that contribute to
the likelihood of success of a check off program. While some of the
characteristics apply to the hardwood industry (clear product standards,
acceptable product availability), there are a number of success predictors
for check-offs which seem not to fit hardwood lumber and hardwood
plywood markets. Success factors, which appear not to fit the hardwood
lumber industry, are listed below.
“Product Homogeneity: The greater degree of product homogeneity
the more likely a check-off program will benefit all producers that are
supporting the cost of the programs.”
A gallon of milk from California is not distinguishable from a gallon of
milk from Florida or from New York. In the hardwood lumber business
we have regularly reported pricing on more than 25 species across three
regions (Northern, Appalachian and Southern) with multiple thicknesses
and multiple grades for each. Even within broad species, there are
regional differences. Red oak from New Hampshire has different
physical and appearance characteristics from red oak from Mississippi
which is in turn different from red oak from North Carolina. These
differences are reflected in the reported market price indexes and are
recognized by lumber buyers around the country and indeed the world.
The inclusion of hardwood plywood with its range of core options,
species and grades adds an additional layer of difficulty to the
implementation of this proposal. The range of production/marketable
items and regional differences for hardwood lumber and hardwood
plywood distinguishes it from other commodity check-off programs.
Hardwood lumber does not score high on product homogeneity and
many believe this will be an insurmountable obstacle for this program.
How will promotion and research money be deployed to equally benefit
the range of species and regions covered by the program?
“Product Identity Maintenance: If the product totally loses its identity
in market channels (such as through combinations with other products in
manufacturing), the potential gains from check-off program activities may
10
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
become diluted with the benefits being distributed to all involved in the
value-adding process and an increasing share going to those not contributing
to the cost of the check-off programs.”
This is a difficult success factor for hardwood. Solid hardwood is
often combined with wood look-alikes and substitutes in furniture,
cabinets, flooring and even architectural applications. Imprinting,
finishing and even foil wrapping technologies of today often make
it difficult for consumers to recognize/identify solid wood products.
The result is that the substitute (for example wood grain print over
medium density fiberboard for floors) may benefit significantly from
promotion of wood appearances while diluting the benefit to solid
wood. This could significantly reduce the benefits of a check-off to the
hardwood producers.
“High Barriers to Entry: Ease of entrance of potential competitors into
the industry can reduce the long-range returns of a check-off program to
those funding the program.”
Today, the barriers to entry for hardwood lumber production are very
low. While there are $25+ million investment operations in the industry,
there are also operations which got underway with capital investments of
less than $100,000. Of course the capabilities are different but these two
hypothetical operations will compete in many of the same segments of
our industry.
A low barrier to entry for hardwood lumber producers will likely result
in increased production capacity, in response to higher prices and/
or margins which some seem to expect from a check-off program.
Ultimately this will result in erosion of margins as mills compete for
orders on the customer side and for logs on the resource side. Our
industry’s relatively low barrier to entry is a disadvantage to the likely
success of the proposed check-off program.
“Supply Controls: Check-off programs work best in industries where
supply is controlled. The more responsive supply is to rising prices, the
more likely the potential returns from check-off program activities will
be at least partially if not totally eroded from increases in supply that
offset any increases in average revenues. Also, as a general rule, imports
must be subject to the same check-off assessments as domestic producers
to avoid the possibility of ‘free-riders’ and resulting inequities.”
There are no supply controls in domestic hardwood lumber production.
Multiple studies have indicated that hardwood lumber supply is quite
responsive to price changes. With the lack of control of supply in the
U.S., producers will be likely to increase production capacity which in
turn is likely to erode the price/margin increases which some expect to
come from a successful check-off.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
SUBMIT A LETTER
Letters to the Editor should be sent to Renee Hornsby, Director of
Communications/Editor of Hardwood Matters at r.hornsby@nhla.com,
by fax at 901-382-6419 or by mail to
NHLA, Attention Renee Hornsby | PO Box 34518 | Memphis, TN 38184
Comments are also accepted at www.nhla.com/nhlablog
The letters which appear are the opinions of the authors and do not
represent the opinions of the Association.
Imports are not included in the Hardwood Lumber and Hardwood Plywood
proposed order. This raises concerns of the “free-rider” issue addressed by the
researchers for non-North American species of hardwood which are already
offered in the U.S. market. It also creates the troublesome potential for
Canadian mills to source logs from the U. S. forest along the border, produce
lumber from these logs and ship the lumber back to the U. S. without an
assessment. This cross border activity occurs now and should be expected to
increase with this proposal.
“Common Objectives of Producers: Check-off programs are usually designed
around meeting common objectives and assuring a reasonable degree of equity to all
who contribute to the funding of the program activities.”
The first difficulty with common objectives among producers is the inclusion
of plywood and solid lumber in a single program. The products of these two
industries often compete directly and one common objective is that they each
seek to take market share from the other. Inclusion of both industries appears
to create a natural conflict within the industries covered by a single program.
Further difficulty arises from the fact that approximately 60 percent of
hardwood production is shipped to industrial markets such as rail ties, pallet
materials and board road/mats. The producers of lumber for these products
have very different objectives from producers of materials for furniture,
cabinets, and flooring.
If industrial products are excluded, as has been suggested by some, the covered
production will be scattered across the furniture, millwork, cabinet, flooring
and export markets. The export segment is the only segment left which
comprises more than 10 percent of the industry. The remaining approximately
23 percent is spread across these four market segments. Product performance
objectives and therefore promotion and research is likely to be very different
between, for example, millwork and flooring.
This divergence in markets, uses, and research opportunities is likely to result
in either: widely inequitable benefits across the segments being assessed, or
the division of the accumulated funds among the various segments to such
a degree that the total funding is insufficient to mount effective programs in
anything, i.e., not enough funding to “move the needle”.
These five factors have been identified as important predictors of the likelihood
of success for a check-off program and our industry comes up short on all five
factors. Our industry should not adopt a program with such unfavorable odds
of success.
Respectfully,
Jeff Hanks
Bill Hanks Lumber Co. Inc.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
11
NHLA ATTENDS
CIFM INTERZUM
GUANGZHOU, CHINA
BY MICHAEL BUCKLEY, TURNSTONE SINGAPORE
12
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
Organized by the China Foreign Trade Centre and
Koelnmesse, interzum was introduced into China in
2004 and is now Asia’s most comprehensive woodworking
machinery, furniture production and interior design
trade fair. Wood materials in 2014 represented a smaller
part of this large and very busy show with a huge
diversity of products, materials, woodworking machinery
and services to the furniture industry. NHLA fielded its
strongest ever team at the show.
This year 1,147 exhibitors from thirty-two countries and
regions met with over 60,000 trade buyers from more than
140 countries and regions across the 130,000 sq m fair.
Among them, 280 exhibitors were from abroad, and for
the first time, the international halls featured nine overseas
pavilions; including Canada, Chile, Germany, Italy, Spain,
Turkey, United States, AHEC, Canada Wood and
Swedish Wood.
MARKET BACKGROUND
China now plays a dominant role in the global timber trade
with Chinese companies buying raw material (logs and
lumber) for processing in its enormous woodworking industry
for domestic consumption and exports. For example, much of
the global increase in American hardwood exports in 2013
was due to continuous market development in Asia, especially
in Greater China where exports of U.S. hardwood lumber
were valued at $843 million (U.S.), an increase of 33 percent
in comparison to 2012. China is estimated to have accounted
for approximately 38 percent of American hardwood global
exports in 2013. Much of the future prospects depend on
the real estate market in China, which in turn depends upon
economic growth and continued urbanization.
During the interzum show there was much discussion and
comment in the local media about slowing economic growth
and a cooling real estate market that could negatively affect
the consumption of hardwood in joinery, flooring and furniture.
Premier Li Keqiang was quoted, as saying that the central
government will, “take seriously the increasing pressure on
economic growth.”
NA
NHLA fielded its
strongest ever
team at the show.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
Writing in the China Daily on March 29, Ma Guangyuan,
Director of the Private Economy Research Center,
commenting on the recent data of falling real estate values
and a lowering in the volume of home sales in key cities,
suggested that the “authorities should be aware of the risks
and make timely moves to prevent it causing systematic
economic collapse.”
Nevertheless, China’s current demand for wood appears
voracious and Chinese traders and manufacturers accounted
for a significant percentage of the wood material exhibitors.
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
13
U.S. HARDWOOD PAVILION
AHEC organized the largest wood materials pavilion with participating coexhibitors, each with a booth, located in the hall for international exhibitors.
The show provided a platform for AHEC members to meet their existing
customers, potential timber users, traders and importers and to promote their
specialty products. AHEC and NHLA staff, sharing the reception booth,
took the opportunity to network with local timber processors and traders as
well as local timber association representatives and to exchange and collect
market information. Attending the show was AHEC Chairman Dean Alanko
with AHEC Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Greater China John
Chan, together with Sharon Shek and Jean Lai from AHEC Hong Kong.
Also in attendance were NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert, NHLA
Director of Membership John Hester and China-based representatives of
NHLA, Li Tao and John Wang with Roman Matyushchenko, working for
NHLA in Russia. NHLA Grading Rules in Chinese and flyers promoting the
forthcoming Las Vegas Convention were distributed, as well as copies of the
latest issue of NHLA’s International Matters.
U.S. ATTENDEES
The twenty-four AHEC member companies in the Pavilion were Bridgewell
Resources, Allegheny Wood Products, Kretch Lumber, Muth Lumber
Co., Ron Jones Lumber Co., American Lumber Co., Northland Forest
Products, Missouri Walnut LLC, Northwest Hardwoods, Snowbelt
Hardwoods, Hermitage Hardwoods Lumber Sales, Rolling Ridge Woods,
Sonoking Corporation, Somerset Wood Products Inc., Midwest Hardwood
Corporation, Midwest Walnut, Hartzell Hardwoods Inc., Anderson-Tully
Lumber Corporation, J.T. Shannon Lumber Co., TYR Wood Products,
W.M. Cramer Lumber Co., Northland Corporation, P.J. Lumber Co. and
Baillie Lumber Co. The Baillie Log Company also exhibited independently
under a separate operation of log exports based on its Williamsport, Pa. log
yard. Feedback was very positive with most members saying that it mainly
gave them a chance to meet existing customers, not only from China but
from elsewhere too. Demand for oak was, not surprising, strong and many
reported inquiries for ash and hickory, but there was also a steady flow of
visitors seeking a wide range of American hardwoods. The U.S. contribution
to interzum also included a seminar on Sustainable American Hardwoods
conducted by NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert and ably interpreted by
NHLA southern China representative John Wang. In addition, a reception
was organized during the four-day show by AHEC to welcome AHEC and
NHLA members, traders, associations and the media.
U.S. HARDWOOD DEMAND
Speaking after the show AHEC Chairman, Dean Alanko of AWP stated,
“interzum was really well attended by people who intended to buy lumber.
My biggest concern however is the current lack of offers by our members may
give the wrong impression that the trees are not there, which of course is not
the case.” John Chan concluded by saying “the show is extremely busy and
the audience was great, many asking help in obtaining Red oak, White oak,
ash and walnut. By the second day the members were very happy and AHEC
will be back for the next interzum.”
The next interzum in Guangzhou will be held March 24–27, 2015.
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M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
NHLA CHIEF INSPECTOR
DANA SPESSERT IN CHINA
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S 15
MEMBER
TO MEMBER
ONLINE BUSINESS IS STILL BUSINESS
By Jason Bolstad, DMSi Software
Business success depends on meeting customer expectations. Prices
should be fair, hours should be reasonable and employees should
be helpful. The list of standard, expected service is changing. The
next generation of buyers does everything online, from paying taxes
to ordering pizza. They are going to expect the same open access
in business-to-business interactions. Dealers must have effective
online resources to be relevant to these buyers.
Notice I said, “dealers need online resources” not “dealers need
websites.” Most businesses have some kind of website, but these
are often little more than marketing brochures. Customers aren’t
looking for Company History. They want to check pricing, get
order updates and complete transactions. They want tools to
manage their accounts, and they will choose businesses that offer
self-service resources.
A good business-to-business website is actually an extension of the
sales and customer support teams, not the IT department. Think
of it as a service first and a website second. Traditional discussions
about demand, opportunity and risk must come before any
mention of servers and software. Most executives and managers
are comfortable with basic SWOT analysis regardless of their
technical expertise.
The following points outline a sort of discovery process for
this discussion.
List your objectives. Determine what your company needs in
order to grow (e.g. increase inventory turns and upsells) then find
ways to meet those needs through a website (e.g. advertise sales
on older items and use “suggested products” features). Don’t let
overzealous programmers lose sight of the business goals. You
need to provide a dependable resource, not set new benchmarks
for graphic design.
Identify the standards. Look at competitor sites to identify
common functions that customers expect. If most businesses
list available inventory, then your portal should do the same.
Once you know the industry standards, think of ways to
exceed expectations. Having the first site that lets customers
view past invoices or submit their own orders could be a great
competitive advantage.
Do your research. Talk to people you know and trust. Plenty of
consultants will want to give advice. A better approach is to speak
with peers and customers first. Contact friends in the industry who
have or who are launching their own websites. Ask what worked,
what surprised them and what they would do differently.
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M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
Create a timeline. You don’t have to launch an all-in-one site
right away. Slowly adding functions allows time to identify and
resolve issues. Announcing new features as they are added also
reminds customers about the portal. Set a timeline for rolling
out each phase. Be patient: it could take a couple of years to fully
implement the plan. Work with a developer that understands the
long-term objective.
Check compatibility. A business site should compliment existing
infrastructure. For instance, it should work well with your
ERP system and automatically display changes to pricing and
inventory. Standalone sites can mean double-keying price file
updates and adding new products to multiple databases. A selfservice portal should help the sales teams, not create more work
for them. Ask your ERP provider for a list of compatible platforms
and suggested partners.
Stay involved. It’s tempting to just hand the site off to the IT
department, but this project is too important to delegate. Customer
portals are revenue generating, cost reducing operations. You
must take an active role. Treat the website team like a sales team.
Regularly meet with them to discuss expectations, solve roadblocks,
set goals and reward success. If the discussion starts to get too
technical, bring it back to business objectives: serving customers
and growing sales.
Online business should not be a new frontier. It requires familiar
principles of service: meet expectations and satisfy needs. Honoring
those values in your online operation will keep customers happy
and help your business prosper.
DMSi Software provides business and accounting software exclusively
to the lumber and building materials industry. They support over
10,000 users at over 400 dealers and distributors across the country.
Founded over 35 years ago, DMSi Software is privately owned and
operated in Omaha, Nebraska.
Jason Bolstad has spent more than ten years working with
hardwood distributors, concentration yards, and retailers on ERP
implementations and general business consulting. As Director of
Software Development at DMSi, he is constantly looking for new
methods of improving profitability. Contact Jason, jbolstad@dmsi.com.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
EDUCATION
SPOTLIGHT
NHLA GRADUATES THE 173RD CLASS
OF THE INSPECTOR TRAINING SCHOOL
Commencement exercises for the 173rd class of the
NHLA Inspector Training School were held on Friday,
March 28, 2014 with twelve students completing the
program – including one from the island country of
Jamaica. Larry Hunter, special project manager of Pike
Lumber Company delivered the graduation address to
a capacity filled room. As keynote speaker, Larry spoke
on the importance of integrity and the knowledge of
the Rules.
“You may not realize it at this moment, but the
knowledge of the Rules you now possess, has just opened
the door to multiple new positions within your company.
Over the forty two years I have been in this business,
my lumber inspection knowledge has served me well.
From the position as lumber inspector, to supervisor, to
operations manager to special projects manager, these
positions would not have been possible without the
knowledge of the Rules.”
Larry went on to explain the importance of integrity
within the industry. “Integrity is a huge part of what
you young men are getting ready to do,” he explained.
“With integrity you will not be ashamed to put your
name on the side of a pack of lumber, graded by
‘John Q.’ on behalf of your company.”
Wally Fields of Walter M. Fields Lumber Company in
Memphis, Tenn. presented the individual achievement
awards and expressed his gratitude for being part of the
festivities. “It is always uplifting to come back to the
School for graduation events. It brings back memories
of my time here at the School. This School has given
you the opportunity to pursue a career in this wonderful
hardwood industry. We want you. We need you.
Congratulations and welcome!”
In closing, Larry encouraged the graduates to stay in
touch. “You are now part of a brotherhood. As you leave
here and start your career, call on each other for help,
share your experiences and ask questions of each other
and don’t be afraid to reach out to the NHLA staff.”
NHLA Inspector Training School graduates were:
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
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■
Cole A. Burney of Starkville, MS – Winona Hardwood
Andrew D. Dobson of Campbellsville, KY – Cox Interior, Inc.
Shawn R. Durgin of Greenfield, NH – New England Forest Products, Inc.
Jack Elliott of Casey, IL – Beeman & Sons
Cody Hadler of Perryville, MO – Altenburg Hardwood Lumber Co.
Cameron Harris of Campbellsville, KY – Cox Interior, Inc.
Brent Jones of Perryville, MO – Altenburg Hardwood Lumber Co.
Casey Landman of McArthur, OH – T & D Thompson Inc.
André Pommells of Jamaica – Kingdom Resources
Seth Richards of Breezewood, PA – Kerex, Inc.
Austin Stirn of Batesville, IN – Pike Lumber Company
Kyle Van Welliver of Los Angeles, CA – Cherokee Wood Products, Inc.
Outstanding individual awards recipients were as follows:
■
■
■
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Seth Richards – John Thomson Award for Highest Overall Average
Austin Stirn – Howard Hanlon Award for Second Highest Overall Average
Jack Elliott – Westside Hardwood Club Award for Highest Board Run Average
Shawn R. Durgin – J. P. Hamer Award for Most Improved Student
Casey Landman – South Central Lumbermen’s Award for Best Attitude/Citizenship
Kyle Van Welliver – Lumbermen’s Club of Memphis Leadership Award
Enrollment is now open for the summer Bilingual Spanish Program that begins June 2 and
the fall program, which begins on September 3 at NHLA, headquarters in Memphis, Tenn.
To enroll or learn more about the program please visit www.inspectortrainingschool.com.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
17
FOUNDATION
FOCUS
FOUNDATION NOMINATED FOR STATE OF TENNESSEE
GOVERNOR’S ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD
By Crystal Oldham, Executive Director, Hardwood Forest Foundation
The Hardwood Forest Foundation has been nominated for the
State of Tennessee Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award
by the Office of Sustainability for Memphis and Shelby County.
The nomination is in the Educational Outreach category and
is the result of the Foundation’s video production of its flagship
program, Truth About Trees, as well as the outreach the program
provided within Shelby County, Tennessee.
“We work tirelessly to teach children about the good the forest
products industry does and to be recognized in this manner
only exemplifies the excellence the curriculum provides in
educational outlets. Truth About Trees simplifies topics such
as carbon sequestration and selective harvesting by offering
a common sense approach to learning and making fun
mandatory,” MacDonald added.
Designed to teach children about harvesting as a means of
keeping forests healthy and obtaining all of the necessary items
we use in our everyday lives, Truth About Trees is showcased
annually throughout Shelby County in a series of tree plantings
and educational presentations, in conjunction with Lumbermen’s
Club of Memphis, Moregreen Nursery and National Hardwood
Lumber Association.
The Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards are presented
annually to recognize outstanding achievements by individuals,
businesses, organizations, educational institutions and agencies
for successful environmental projects and conservation measures.
In addition, the Foundation, its Emmy-Nominated
Spokesperson Tommy MacDonald and Memphis-based
Running Pony Productions recently produced the curriculum
in video format. Approximately 80 percent of the video was
filmed in West Tennessee.
The awards also promote leadership by example in order to
increase promotion, protection and conservation of the natural
resources of the State of Tennessee – its wildlife, forests, soils, air,
water, natural heritage, parks and recreation.
Awards will be presented by Governor Bill Haslam in June.
“To be nominated for the most prestigious environmental and
conservation award in the State of Tennessee is huge for the
Foundation and its educational efforts,” MacDonald said.
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M a y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
FOUNDATION
FOCUS
TREE EDUCATION TAKES STAGE AT HARDWOOD MANUFACTURERS
ASSOCIATION NATIONAL CONFERENCE & EXPO
By Crystal Oldham, Executive Director, Hardwood Forest Foundation
Fifty school children from the Savannah, Ga. area were treated
to a day of learning about the benefits of harvesting trees at the
recent Hardwood Manufacturers Association (HMA) National
Conference & Expo. The event, which featured the Foundation’s
flagship program, Truth About Trees, was funded entirely by HMA.
Designed to teach children about harvesting as a means of
keeping forests healthy and obtaining all of the necessary items
we use in our everyday lives, Truth About Trees is distributed
across North America to educators and industry members, free of
charge. With the program set in standard lesson plan format, it
serves the educator as a ‘spoon-fed,’ ready-made teaching tool.
“Truth About Trees is a valuable tool that provides important
information to a significant audience- our youth. It delivers facts
in a fun and entertaining way, so much so they are eager to share
the information with family members and friends,” said Linda
Jovanovich, Executive Vice President of HMA.
“Our entire industry will benefit from programs that educate
young and old, professional and non-professional regarding
nature’s ‘greenest’ resource – trees. It’s the responsibility of all
industry stakeholders to communicate our message. Including our
bright, inquisitive children will have long term benefits for us all,”
Jovanovich added.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
HMA First Lady Katie Shannon, wife of President Jack Shannon,
also presented the school Principal with a donation of tree-related
books for her campus library and each child was given a gift bag
of items with tree products in their makeup, including school
supplies and snacks. Shannon and Jovanovich even served the
children a lunch of chicken nuggets and macaroni.
In addition to the work with the children, Foundation
Spokesperson and Emmy-Nominated television woodworker
Tommy MacDonald also addressed industry attendees at a
luncheon where he discussed the Foundation’s educational efforts
and introduced a clip of the Foundation’s video version of Truth
About Trees.
“The educational kit reaches hundreds of classrooms annually, but
requires a live presenter, by putting the program in DVD format;
teachers can just pop the video in and let me take it from there.
The message is important as the Foundation is working hard to
eliminate misperceptions about harvesting in North America and
we are doing our best to educate young people in every format
possible,” MacDonald said.
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
19
RULES
CORNER
NHLA SALES CODE – THE CONDUCT OF TRADE
FOR THE HARDWOOD LUMBER INDUSTRY
By Dana Spessert, NHLA Chief Inspector
NHLA adopted the first Sales Code on June 23, 1922. Since
then, the NHLA Sales Code has been revised several times,
most recently in 2007. The NHLA Sales Code has been the
conduct of trade for the hardwood lumber industry since
its inception.
One of the caveats to the NHLA Sales Code is that it is only
binding between buyer and seller when it is stated on the
contract. Including the Sales Code on the Sales Contract
makes both buyer and seller aware that there is written
policy to follow when trading hardwoods. Historically many
companies preprinted their purchase orders with the following
statement, “NHLA Rules and Sales Code to Govern.” The
statement can also be hand written or rubber stamped on
the contract.
NHLA has a formal Sales Code Violation form, which is
located at this web address:
http://www.nhla.com/assets/1603/scv-1_form-web.pdf
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M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
Anyone believing to be a victim of a NHLA Sales Code
violation should complete the form and submit to the NHLA
Chief Inspector at d.spessert@nhla.com
“The purposes of this Association are to establish, maintain
and apply a uniform system for the inspection and
measurement of hardwood lumber;” This statement appears
in the NHLA Constitution and Bylaws, under ARTICLE I –
ORGANIZATION. I believe to maintain the uniform system
for the inspection and measurement of hardwood lumber, all
members of the Association should always agree to the Sales Code!
I welcome any and all feedback from any of my articles, so
please feel free to contact me.
As a reminder, the NHLA Rules changes for the upcoming reprint
of the Rules books will go into effect on January 1, 2015.
Chief Inspector, Dana Spessert can be reach by email at
d.spessert@nhla.com or by phone at 901-399-7551.
W W W. N H L A .CO M
LEGISLATIVE
LOG
THE HOT TOPIC – CARBON EMISSIONS
FROM BIOMASS COMBUSTION
Dana Lee Cole, Executive Director, Hardwood Federation
As spring finally arrives at our Nation’s capital, it’s easy to get
distracted by the cherry blossoms and warm weather, particularly
following the coldest, snowiest winter we have had in many years.
But the Federation staff remains focused like a laser on our policy
agenda here in Washington. Congress, of course, keeps chugging
along on major issues like tax break extensions and patent reform
and a laundry list of other issues that are outside our specific areas
of interest. Where we are finding action on issues that most affects
us right now is in the regulatory arena.
As we have mentioned in prior communications, the EPA is in
the process of determining how it will treat carbon emissions
from biomass combustion under the parameters of the Clean Air
Act. EPA has been meeting with groups on both sides of the issue
for well over a year now and indications are that it will unveil a
proposal as early as late second quarter for public comment. The
document – known as the Biogenic Framework – will determine
whether biomass emissions will be counted toward permitted green
house gas emissions caps for major sources of air pollution. The
immediate, bottom line effect will be on large biomass utilizing
industries like our brethren in the pulp and paper sector. But the
precedent setting potential for this exercise has everyone in the
biomass value chain paying very close attention. A final product
from EPA that rejects the carbon benefits of biomass would strike
a serious blow to our industry’s sustainability platform.
Biomass carbon neutrality is a principle that has been long
recognized by an abundance of studies, national legislation and
international policy, including the Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC) and the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change. The concept has come under
increasing attack of late by environmental groups that are
opposed to forest management in general and biomass energy
in particular. In fact, a biomass hit piece was released in early
April by the Partnership for Policy Integrity led by Mary Booth,
who you may remember as the author of the Manomet study
that equated biomass emissions to coal. This latest report titled
“Trees, Trash and Toxics – How Biomass Energy Has Become the
New Coal” is a deeply flawed piece that is big on conjecture and
questionable math and very light on citations. Nonetheless, it is
W W W. N H L A .CO M
yet another anti biomass communication out in the ethosphere
that threatens to muddle our message about the environmental
benefits of biomass energy.
To its credit, EPA staff is saying all the right things in private and
public meetings. At a hearing in late March, Rep. Jaime Herrera
Beutler (R-WA) asked EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy about
the biogenic framework, pressing the Administrator on the
importance of this issue to the forest products industry and the
need for an expeditious resolution. McCarthy replied that the
Agency is eager to release its framework and acknowledged the
benefits of biomass energy that comes from sustainably managed
forests. She reiterated the challenge of shoehorning this issue into
the tight confines of the Clean Air Act and that her staff continues
to wrestle with that challenge.
All indications are that EPA’s technical and rule writing staff is
busy trying to complete a framework draft. But the bottom line
is that we will not know what is in this document until we see it
and that will not happen until later this year. In the meantime,
we are raising awareness of this issue with our friends on Capitol
Hill, letting them know that the framework is in development
and that we may need their help if the draft framework misses
the mark. The Hardwood Federation is working together with
forest landowners, pellet manufacturers, biomass power producers
and the pulp and paper industry to make sure that we are doing
everything we can to ensure a positive outcome on this issue.
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
21
CALENDAR
WH ERE IN THE WOR LD IS N H LA?
EDUCATION & TRAIN I NG
Expo Richmond 2014
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sandstone, VA | May 16–17
Attending: John Hester, Director of Membership
IWF 2014
Atlanta, GA | August 20–23
Participating: John Hester, Director of Membership
2014 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase
Las Vegas, NV | October 8–10
Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa
Memphis, TN | May 7–11 | NHLA Headquarters
Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
International Marketing for Forest Products Industries
Memphis, TN | May 7 | NHLA Headquarters
Instructor: Dr. Henry Quesada
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
Bilingual Spanish Inspector Training School 175th Class
Memphis, TN | June 2–August 8 | NHLA Headquarters
Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
I N DUSTRY EVENTS
Kentucky Forest
Industries Association
Annual Meeting
Louisville, KY | May 2–4
Dubai Woodshow
Dubai, UAE | May 8–10
Wood Guangzhou 2014
Guangzhou, China | May 12–14
Millersburg, OH | June 9–12 | Yoder Lumber
Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: Gayla Fleming | 614-497-9580
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Randolph, NY | June 23–26 | Raber’s Mill
Instructor: Thomas Byers, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sandy Lake, PA | July 21–24
McKeever Environmental Learning Center
Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: 724-376-1000 | info@mckeever.org
3-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sherwood, OR | August 5–7 | Hardwood Industries
Instructor: Jack English, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Memphis, TN | August 18–22 | NHLA Headquarters
Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor
Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
4/5 Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Elkins, WV | September 8–12
West Virginia Wood Tech Center
Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: Matt Wyatt | 304-637-7500 | matt@wvwoodtech.com
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Indianapolis, IN | November 3–7
Wood Mizer Products, Inc.
Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector
Contact: Denice Helmbrecht | 317-875-3660
Visit www.nhla.com/calendar for more updates.
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W W W. N H L A .CO M
JOB BOARD
Lumber Inspector
Sawyer
Boehm-Madisen Lumber Co., a third generation family business
specializing in highline hardwoods, softwoods, plywood and
custom millwork is seeking a hardwood lumber inspector. The
position will be grading and sorting hardwood lumber for specific
orders. Qualified candidate will be a NHLA Inspector Training
School graduate. Salary is competitive and negotiable. Healthcare
reimbursement plus 401K.
Gutchess Lumber is seeking a sawyer to saws logs for maximum
value recovery by following daily cutting orders and achieving
proper levels of yield. The position is accountable for proper
operation of the carriage, feed works and log turner; checks
lumber thickness at saw; conduct a daily physical inspection
of all equipment. Two or more years of experience is required.
To apply, contact John: 262-544-4660 | john@boehm-madisen.com
Boehm-Madisen Lumber Co.
N16W22100 Jericho Dr. | Waukesha, WI 53186
262-544-4660 | 262-544-9282 fax | www.boehm-madisen.com
Salary is competitive and perks include: employee stock
ownership; life, health and dental insurance; profit sharing;
and 401K deposit matching.
To apply, email resume to: jlortiz@gutchess.com
Lumber Inspector
Gutchess Lumber
10699 Maple Grove Road | Freedom, NY 14065
607-428-8097 fax | www.gutchess.com
Baillie Lumber Co. is seeking an inspector for both green and KD
production lines.
Sales Representative, Eastern Pennsylvania
Working knowledge of NHLA Rules and inspection process with
a willingness to learn is required. Salary is to be determined based
on qualifications.
To apply, email resume to: rjoan@baillie.com
Baillie Lumber Co.
3953 County Rd. 51 | Galion, OH 44833
419-462-2000 | 419-462-2002 fax | www.baillie.com
Lumber Inspector
Gutchess Hardwoods offers competitive pay and a superior benefits
package. If you share our vision of excellence, then we invite you to
join our winning team!
Gutchess Hardwoods has an opening for a hardwood lumber
inspector to inspect incoming and outgoing lumber according
to NHLA Rules at the assigned grading deck and to saw list
requirements. The position will visually inspects lumber according to
species, grade, and dimension and uses NHLA lumber grading Rules
to inspect lumber. Candidates must possess High School diploma or
higher and experience providing skills suitable for this position, with
NHLA grading Rules training.
Matson Lumber, a ninth generation family owned and operated
company that is devoted to the highest quality and service in
the hardwood lumber industry is seeking a sales representative
for Eastern Pennsylvania.
This position is responsible for maintaining existing customers
and developing and growing new customer base. Develop and
execute sales plans. Maintain daily communication with current
and potential customers via phone calls, email and personal
visits. Conduct market analysis and develop new markets.
Provide fast and accurate sales quotes to customers. Identify
and resolve customer concerns and complaints.
Bachelor Degree in Business or related field plus 2+ years sales
experience required, preferably in the lumber industry. Must
possess good communication and interpersonal skills. 80%
travel. This position is part of the distribution sales team and
will be located in the York, New Holland area. This position will
service Eastern PA and Northern Maryland.
To apply, email resume to: sorek4@comcast.net
Matson Lumber Company, Attention: J S
132 Main Street | Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-5334 | www.matsonlumber.com
Competitive pay plus employee stock ownership; life, health and
dental insurance; profit sharing; and 401K deposit matching.
To apply, email resume to: jlortiz@gutchess.com
Gutchess Hardwoods
185 Devereux Road | Latrobe, PA 15650
724-537-6447 | 607-428-8097 fax | www.gutchess.com
W W W. N H L A .CO M
M A Y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S 23
JOB BOARD
Lumber Inspector
Lumber Inspector
Rockland Flooring is seeking a lumber inspector to inspect grade
of incoming green lumber and audit process from green to dry.
A trained inspector is required.
Devereaux Sawmill is seeking a lumber inspector for green
inbound and KD outbound lumber. NHLA Inspector Training
School Graduate or five years experience is preferred. Devereaux
Sawmill is a very stable company focused on producing the finest
lumber possible. We are seeking individuals who take pride in their
work and seek top quality. Devereaux offers competitive wages,
401K, Health Care, Paid Holidays and Paid Vacation.
The vision of Rockland Flooring is to be the customer’s first choice
for trailer-related products. We strive to meet the needs of its
customers by offering a value package that includes an assortment
of innovative products and a high level of personal service.
We will achieve our vision and mission by following these
guiding principles:
Apply by email to: mclark@RocklandFlooring.com
Rockland Flooring
8099 N 200W | Monon, IN 47959
219-253-8306 | www.rocklandflooring.com
Lumber Inspector
Collins Hardwood Company LLC is seeking a hardwood lumber
inspector to grade dry lumber according to NHLA Rules, ensure
the grade of lumber coming off the moving dry chain meets NHLA
specifications. The inspector will visually inspect boards as to
percentage of clear wood. This includes turning boards over to
inspect both sides of the board. Mark boards to grade with grading
stick with crayon.
To apply send resume to: todd@devereauxsawmill.com
Devereaux Sawmill
2872 North Hubbardston Road | Pewamo, MI 48873
989-593-2552 | 989-593-2329 fax | www.devereauxsawmill.com
Lumber Inspector(s)
Due to continued growth, openings for experienced green and
kiln dried lumber inspectors are available with Baillie Lumber
Co. in their New York, South Carolina and Wisconsin facilities. A
minimum of one-year experience is required. Baillie Lumber Co.
provides an excellent comprehensive compensation package,
growth opportunities and an exciting, dynamic work environment.
Apply in confidence to tcole@baillie.com
Baillie Lumber Co.
4002 Legion Drive | Hamburg, NY 14075 | www.baillie.com
Candidates should have a High School diploma or equivalent and
be a graduate of the NHLA Inspector Training School. Candidates
should have the ability to maintain accuracy and speed of board
inspection and strong math skills. Must keep supervisor/leads
informed on pertinent issues. Proven ability to recognize lumber
species and grades, proven ability to work in a team environment.
Excellent communication skills, proven decision-making skills and
observation of all safety rules.
Collins is a family-owned timber and sawmill business in continuous
operation for over 155 years. A reputation for honesty, integrity,
and environmental stewardship has propelled Collins in to the role
as an industry leader. Collins offers competitive pay and benefits:
H&W, life, disability, 401K and vacation.
To apply, send resume to: WorkForce West Virginia
812 Northside Drive, Suite 7E | Summersville, WV, 26651
or fax to: 304-872-0848
Collins Hardwood Company LLC
108 East Main Street | Richwood, WV 26261
304-846-4186 | www.collinsco.com
View our job postings at http://www.collinsco.com/HR/
To view current job postings or to post a job,
visit www.nhla.com/jobboard.
24
M a y 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
W W W. N H L A .CO M
Thank You, From Our Team To Yours!
David Jacobs
Harry Jacobs
Mentoring Leadership
Business Development
Cliff Nelson
Director of Investments
Kay Jacobs
Yvonne Zandi
Director of Operations
Nicholle Overkamp
Personal & Retirement Planning
TJT Consulting wishes to express our gratitude to our
lumber industry clients. Continuing to grow, we are pleased
to introduce new team members that bring added expertise.
This allows us to provide new services and product offerings.
TJT Consulting is a full-service company supporting their
clients with strategies for long-term stability, business succession and financial planning. Focused on businesses as they
transition leadership. Believing an important service, we
know the chances of reaching optimal results are increased
by exemplary “energy” and client service.
Chief Financial Officer
Mark Jentsch
Leadership Development
At TJT Consulting, attention to detail and proven lumber
industry client results have helped reach a reputation of
excellence.
Please give us a call today. We would enjoy helping you
get where you want to “go.” Our team is your team!
Business Succession Planning
Financial Planning
Michael McDermid
Long Term Consultant
Rob Case
Project Development & Mgmt.
Confidence • Commitment • Results
Chris Spadafora
Sue Deci
Product Specialist
Client Service
Sarah Blankenship
Financial Advisor
James Ginnane
Business Development
Sheila Weatherbee
Administrator
4001 Legion Drive • Hamburg, NY 14075 • Toll Free: 866-287-5919 or (716) 649-4460 • E-mail: djacobs@tjt4001.com