National Hardwood Academy

NHLA’s Inspector Training School (ITS) celebrated the graduation of Class 210, marking a milestone in 77 years of advancing hardwood grading expertise. Graduates leave equipped with NHLA Rules knowledge, technology skills, and an understanding of wood’s carbon value, ready to strengthen businesses, improve product quality, and support sustainable forests across the industry.

The NHLA Inspector Training School partnered with Gurdon High School to give students an immersive introduction to the hardwood industry, combining sawmill tours, hands-on experience, and the Grader 101 curriculum. The program builds career pathways into manufacturing, quality control, sales, and more, demonstrating how education, industry, and community can collaborate to develop the next generation of hardwood professionals.