Technology, Tradition, and Transitions

Reflections from the San Antonio Convention

In this edition of Hardwood Matters, we’re highlighting technological advances that have had—and will continue to have—a positive impact on our industry. The leading edge of that innovation was on full display in the exhibit hall last month at the San Antonio Convention, and it was truly impressive. One hundred twenty vendors came ready to showcase their latest developments, and they certainly did not disappoint.

As I walked through the rows of booths, I couldn’t help but think about how my grandpa, Louie Pescaglia, would react to the technologies now commonplace in our members’ facilities. His first sawmill, built in 1935, required a great deal of thought and sweat to convert logs into lumber. Those skills remain essential today, but not to the same degree. Our most modern mills now integrate computers into nearly every aspect of production.

We have 3D scanning systems that not only gather data on a log’s diameter, length, and contour, but also generate optimized cutting programs to yield the most value from each log. Optimized edgers and trimmers remove the guesswork from machining, allowing producers to program precise parameters for the wane permitted on each piece. Automatic stick placers increase efficiency when preparing bundles for air and kiln drying. Advanced kiln technology—such as high-frequency vacuum drying and intelligent control systems—accelerates drying, improves wood quality, and enhances energy efficiency.

We even have automated systems that determine lumber grades, robots that stack lumber, and machines that strap finished bundles for shipment. Lumber can now be accurately measured and tallied using a variety of tools—even a cell phone. Inventory and accounting can be managed with intuitive digital systems that handle everything from log tallies to invoicing at the touch of a button.

I’m sure my grandpa would have been thrilled to see how far technology has come, and I can only imagine what tools my grandchildren will have at their disposal in the future.

As Chairman of the Board of Directors, I also want to recognize those members whose terms concluded at the convention. They were celebrated at Wednesday evening’s Board of Directors meeting, where each received a solid hardwood plaque as a token of appreciation for their years of service and dedication to NHLA and the hardwood industry.

Honorees included five board members: Eric Boer of Mason’s Mill and Lumber, Josh Brennan of Frank Miller Lumber, Bill Buchanan of Buchanan Hardwoods, Brin Langmuir of Falcon Lumber, and Tom Oilar of Cole Hardwoods. Three members of the Executive Committee were also honored: Ray White of Harold White Lumber Co., Joe Pryor of Oaks Unlimited, and Rich Solano, recently retired from Pike Lumber Co. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve alongside each of these gentlemen. They’ve left a lasting imprint on our association, and I’m deeply grateful for their contributions and friendship.

The convention also marked the swearing-in of six new members to our Board during the General Session on Friday morning. The Nominating Committee, led by Chairman Jon Syre, presented an outstanding slate of nominees, all elected to their first of two three-year terms. Those sworn in were Jesse Lason of The Rossi Group, Scott Wesberry of Fred Netterville Lumber Co., Patti Heintzelman of Keiver-Willard Lumber Corp., Tyler Kamps of Kamps Hardwoods, Inc., Alex Fischer of Maley & Wertz, Inc., and one to be announced soon.

I look forward to the fresh ideas and perspectives this talented group will bring as we continue our mission to grow and strengthen our industry.

Bucky Pescaglia

NHLA Chairman | Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc.