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 WHAT MAKES MUTUAL INSURANCE A BETTER CHOICE? FOR STARTERS, THERE ARE NO SHAREHOLDERS – SO THAT MEANS WE PUT THE NEEDS OF OUR POLICYHOLDERS FIRST. And that results in better service… suggesting ways to minimize risk… settling claims more fairly and quickly. No wonder more than 135 million policyholders choose mutual insurance to protect their property. With PLM/ILM, you get two established MUTUAL insurance companies specializing in the lumber, woodworking and building materials industries that understand your business, your needs and your values. Become a part of something bigger. Become a member of a mutual. PENNSYLVANIA LUMBERMENS MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY INDIANA LUMBERMENS MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY Member of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies “SHARED PURPOSE. MUTUAL VALUESTM is a registered trademark of 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. 14 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. 16 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: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ 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: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ 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. 18 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 20 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. 22 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 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
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