Explore admissions information for the National Hardwood Academy. Review requirements, process, and contact our team with any questions before applying. Admissions Information Learn how to apply to the National Hardwood Academy. Getting started with the National Hardwood Academy is simple and hassle-free. Begin by filling out our online application and uploading the required documents. After we review your submission, an admissions advisor will reach out to guide you through the next steps, including information about housing and payment plans. Whether you’re new to the hardwood industry or looking to advance your career, we’re committed to supporting you throughout the entire admissions process. Application Process Gather Your Documents Gather your identification, transcripts, and other required documentation. Select a Cohort Check out our Class Calendar and find the start date that works best for you. Submit an Application After gathering documentation & selecting your cohort, you’re ready to apply! What You'll Need to Apply Proof of Identification Gather your identification, transcripts, and other required documentation. Verification of Education Check out our Class Calendar and find the start date that works best for you. Ability to Benefits Test After gathering documentation & selecting your cohort, you’re ready to apply! and or International Student Requirements The National Hardwood Academy welcomes all international students! All international students must be semi-fluent in English before they enroll. The School only accepts M-1 visas in accordance with its vocational status. International student applicants must meet the following requirements for admission to the School: Successful completion of a secondary school program that is equivalent to high school in the United States. Official records must be translated and evaluated by an approved educational evaluator service attesting that completion is equivalent to secondary school completed in the United States. Certification of financial ability to meet tuition and other necessary expenses (i.e. supplies, travel, lodging, food, etc.) Program Tuition  Module 1 features online instruction  Module 2 features 4 weeks in-person instruction  Module 3 features final testing & certification  $2,210 Module 1 tuition ($100 registration deposit)  $2,050 Module 2 tuition ($100 registration deposit)  $1,360 Module 3 tuition ($100 registration deposit) Apply for Hybrid ITS $5,620 (scholarships available) Inspector Training School (Hybrid Format) Rigorous training with maximum flexibility.  Intensive 8-week in-person program  Globally recognized training program  99% job placement rate for ITS graduates  Experience the camaraderie and student life at ITS  $4,030 for program tuition  $150 for required supplies  $100 registration deposit (applied to tuition) Apply for Standard ITS $4,280 (scholarships available) Inspector Training School (Standard Format) The flagship program of National Hardwood Academy  Practical, immediately applicable real-world skills  Hands-on instruction from industry experts  Training up-to-date with evolving industry standards  Faster onboarding or upskilling for staff  Kiln Drying short course  Production Management short course  And many more contact our team to learn more Apply for Short Courses $250 - $750 (per course - scholarships available) Continuing Education & Short Courses Incremental education to further your career Scholarships & Financial Support Providing Access to Education for Those Who Qualify The Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF), established in 2012, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on helping students access the education they need to succeed in the hardwood industry. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, ITSEF is here to help you succeed. Learn More Have Questions about Applying? Whether you have questions about the application process or need help deciding which program is right for you, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to assist! Contact Us

Explore the NHLA Convention schedule, including session times, speaker panels, networking events, and more. Plan your convention experience. Convention Schedule Plan your convention experience with ease. Join industry leaders, hardwood professionals, and NHLA members from across the country for three days of expert-led sessions, networking events, and the premier hardwood trade show of the year. Use the interactive schedule below to plan your time and make the most of your NHLA Convention experience. 2026 Convention Schedule The 2026 Convention schedule will be posted soon! 2026 Convention Schedule Tuesday, September 15th Time Event Location Details Tuesday, September 15th 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM HCC - Room 7 Details Held in conjunction with the 2026 NHLA Annual Convention, registration for this class also includes complimentary access to convention events—giving you the opportunity to expand your skills, connect with industry leaders, and maximize your time on-site. Register for Short Course Sponsor(s): Day 1 - 3 Day Short Course Day 1 - 3 Day Short Course + 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Veterans Room 5th Floor @ Hilton Details A Golfers Only reception on Tuesday evening. Check-in to your room and come on down to meet your team and the other players. Sponsor(s): ITSEF Golf Tournament Player's Only Reception ITSEF Golf Tournament Player's Only Reception + Pre-registration required By invitation only Wednesday, September 16th Time Event Location Details Wednesday, September 16th 6:00 AM Little Mountain Country Club Details To-Go Breakfast at the Golf Course Sponsor(s): Golfers Breakfast at the Golf Course Golfers Breakfast at the Golf Course + 7:00 AM Hilton Hotel Foyer Details Sponsor(s): Buses Depart for Golf Course Buses Depart for Golf Course + 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM HCC- Room 7 Details Held in conjunction with the 2026 NHLA Annual Convention, registration for this class also includes complimentary access to convention events—giving you the opportunity to expand your skills, connect with industry leaders, and maximize your time on-site. Register for Short Course Sponsor(s): Day 2 - 3 Day Short Course Day 2 - 3 Day Short Course + 8:00 AM Little Mountain Country Club - 7667 Hermitage Rd. Painesville, OH Details Sponsor(s): ITSEF Annual Golf Tournament ITSEF Annual Golf Tournament + 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM HCC Atrium Foyer Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Opens NHLA Registration Desk Opens + 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM HCC Hall A Details Sponsor(s): Exhibitor Showcase Setup Exhibitor Showcase Setup + 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM HCC- Room 3 Details Sponsor(s): AHEC Board Meeting - Time TBD AHEC Board Meeting - Time TBD + 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM East Terrace Rooftop Details Kick off the NHLA 2026 Convention with the Opening Jam Welcome Reception, Wednesday, September 16, from 5–7 PM. The hardwood industry is strongest when diverse perspectives come together across markets, roles, and regions. As we “take you down” into a shared space of conversation and connection, this opening gathering reminds us there’s “nothing to get hung about” when collaboration leads the way—because building a resilient, forward-looking industry is something we do better together, Strawberry Fields forever. Sponsor(s): Cascade Hardwood Opening Jam Welcome Reception Opening Jam Welcome Reception + 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Center Street BC, 2nd Floor Hilton Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Board of Manager’s Dinner NHLA Board of Manager’s Dinner + Pre-registration required By invitation only Thursday, September 17th Time Event Location Details Thursday, September 17th 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM HCC Atrium Ballroom CF Details Sponsor(s): Full Breakfast Buffet for all Attendees Full Breakfast Buffet for all Attendees + 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM HCC Atrium Foyer Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Open NHLA Registration Desk Open + 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM HCC Atrium Ballroom ABDE Details Sponsor(s): Baillie Opening Session with Keynote Speaker Opening Session with Keynote Speaker + 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM HCC- Room 7 Details Held in conjunction with the 2026 NHLA Annual Convention, registration for this class also includes complimentary access to convention events—giving you the opportunity to expand your skills, connect with industry leaders, and maximize your time on-site. Register for Short Course Sponsor(s): Day 3 - 3 Day Short Course Day 3 - 3 Day Short Course + 9:30 AM - 4 PM HCC Hall A Details Sponsor(s): Exhibit Showcase Open Exhibit Showcase Open + 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM HCC Hall A - Booth 519 Details Sponsor(s): Breeze Dried Bloody Mary Bar Bloody Mary Bar + 10:30 AM - 4 PM HCC Room 2 Details Sponsor(s): National Inspector Connection Hub National Inspector Connection Hub + 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Lady Caroline Details On Thursday, spouses can enjoy a relaxing lunchtime cruise aboard the Lady Caroline, offering a unique opportunity to unwind, connect, and experience Cleveland from the water while taking in the city’s historic waterfront views. Please meet in the Hilton lobby no later than 10:30 am for departure. Date: 9/17/26 Time: 11 am- 2 pm Cost: $150 Capacity: 25 Sponsor(s): MO PAC Lumber Company Spouse Event: Cruise on the Lady Caroline Spouse Event: Cruise on the Lady Caroline + 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM HCC - Room 4 Details Sponsor(s): ITSEF Board Meeting ITSEF Board Meeting + 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM HCC Hall A Details Sponsor(s): Lunch Buffet Lunch Buffet + 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM HCC Room 1 Details Lew McCreery | U.S. Forest Service Learn how wood energy can lower operating costs and create new value from mill residues. Lew McCreery will explore wood energy system options for sawmills and primary processors, including Combined Heat and Power (CHP) opportunities that generate electricity from steam or low-temperature drying. The session will also cover grants, tax credits, emissions reductions, and partnership opportunities. With decades of experience and hundreds of projects supported nationwide, McCreery brings practical insight into implementing efficient, cost-effective wood energy solutions. Sponsor(s): Ed Session - Operating Savings Using Wood Energy Ed Session - Operating Savings Using Wood Energy + 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Details Sponsor(s): Stephens Hardwood Beer at the Booth Beer at the Booth + 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM HCC - Room 1 Details Mike Snow | Executive Director, American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) Gain a global perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing American hardwood. Mike Snow will share insights on international market trends, trade dynamics, sustainability messaging, and the evolving role of U.S. hardwood in design and manufacturing worldwide. Drawing on AHEC’s global initiatives and market development efforts, this session will explore how the industry can strengthen demand, navigate uncertainty, and position American hardwood for long-term growth both domestically and abroad. Sponsor(s): Granite Valley Forest Products Ed Session - Global Markets & the Future of American Hardwood Ed Session - Global Markets & the Future of American Hardwood + 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM HCC - Room 8 Details Sponsor(s): 2026 Canadian Hardwood Bureau Fall Meeting 2026 Canadian Hardwood Bureau Fall Meeting + 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM HCC - Room 3 Details Sponsor(s): Nyle Dry Kilns NHLA ITS Alumni Reception NHLA ITS Alumni Reception + 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Details The Better Together Reception brings the NHLA community to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Thursday, September 17, from 6–10 PM for a high-energy night of connection and conversation. Inspired by legendary rock partnerships—like Lennon & McCartney, Jagger & Richards, and Plant & Page—this networking reception celebrates the power of collaboration, where individual strengths come together to create something iconic. Join fellow members, partners, and industry leaders to spark new connections, strengthen existing ones, and reaffirm that the hardwood industry, like the greatest duos in rock history, is truly better together. Sponsor(s): NWH Better Together Reception Better Together Reception + Pre-registration required By invitation only Friday, September 18th Time Event Location Details Friday, September 18th 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM HCC Atrium Foyer Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Open NHLA Registration Desk Open + 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM HCC - Room 3 Details Sponsor(s): Fellowship of Christian Lumbermen Meeting Fellowship of Christian Lumbermen Meeting + 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Suite 202 Details Built to Lead: Women Shaping the Industry brings together Claire Getty (Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods), Patti Heintzelman (Keiver-Willard Lumber), and Brady Portman (Banks Hardwoods, Inc.) for an honest, encouraging conversation about creating lasting careers as women in the hardwood industry. Panelists will share personal perspectives on breaking into the industry, staying motivated, and supporting one another, followed by informal networking to foster connection and community. Sponsor(s): Built to Lead: Women Shaping the Industry Breakfast Built to Lead: Women Shaping the Industry Breakfast + 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM HCC Atrium Ballroom CF Details Sponsor(s): Novum Underwriting Partners Breakfast Buffet Breakfast Buffet + 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM HCC Atrium Ballroom ABDE Details Sponsor(s): PLM General Session General Session + 9:30 AM - 4 PM HCC Hall A Details Sponsor(s): Exhibit Hall Opens Exhibit Hall Opens + 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM TBD Details Sponsor(s): Rules Change Open Forum Rules Change Open Forum + 10:45 AM - 4 PM HCC- Room 2 Details Sponsor(s): National Inspector Connection Hub National Inspector Connection Hub + 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM HCC Hall A Details Sponsor(s): Lunch Buffet Lunch Buffet + 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM HCC - Room 1 Details Sponsor(s): Ed Session - Thermal Modification Panel Ed Session - Thermal Modification Panel + 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Booth 523 Details Sponsor(s): Messersmith Wood Boilers Beer at the Booth Beer at the Booth + 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM HCC - Room 1 Details Dan Meyer | Managing Editor & Analyst, Hardwood Review Numbers tell the story — and Dan Meyer breaks it down. In this data-driven session, Meyer analyzes current hardwood market conditions, demand shifts, export trends, and the economic forces shaping what comes next. As Managing Editor & Analyst of Hardwood Review, he brings trusted industry intelligence and perspective to help attendees understand today’s volatility and prepare for the year ahead. Walk away with clear insights to support smarter business decisions. Sponsor(s): Lumber Resources Ed Session - The Hardwood Industry Now: Data, Direction & What Comes Next Ed Session - The Hardwood Industry Now: Data, Direction & What Comes Next + 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Hilton Hotel, 5th floor Superior CD Details The Encore Celebration Gala brings the NHLA 2026 Convention to a memorable close on Friday, September 18, from 6–10 PM. Like a final encore that sends the crowd home on a high note, this elegant evening reflects on the connections made, ideas shared, and momentum built throughout the week. Join fellow members and industry leaders for a night of celebration, recognition, and reflection—because the best performances deserve one last moment in the spotlight. Sponsor(s): Encore Celebration Encore Celebration + Pre-registration required By invitation only Have Questions About the Convention? Whether you're attending the NHLA Convention for the first time or you’ve been with us for decades, we’re here to make your experience smooth and successful. Have questions about the schedule, registration, or what to expect? Reach out to our team directly. Contact John

Browse open positions in the hardwood industry or post a job through NHLA’s Career Center. Connect talent with opportunity today. Career Center Your gateway to opportunities in the hardwood industry. Prime Lumber Company Thomasville, NC The NHLA Career Center connects employers with qualified talent and helps job seekers find rewarding careers in the hardwood lumber industry. From entry-level positions to experienced roles, explore openings across sawmills, manufacturing, sales, logistics, inspection, and more. A Job Board Built for the Hardwood Industry The NHLA Career Center is the go-to job board for professionals and companies across the hardwood supply chain. Every listing is industry-specific, giving employers targeted exposure and candidates more relevant results. Whether you're hiring sawmill operators, sales professionals, plant managers, or lumber inspectors, this is where the hardwood industry comes to connect. View Current Opportunities Current Job Opportunities No jobs match your search. Load More Hiring in the Hardwood Industry? Post Your Job Today. Reach a qualified, targeted audience of professionals in the hardwood lumber sector. Whether you're filling a technical, managerial, or entry-level role, the NHLA Career Center helps you connect with job seekers who are actively pursuing careers in the industry. Submit a Job Opening

Stay connected to the hardwood industry year-round. View upcoming trade shows, conferences, and events on NHLA’s industry events calendar. Industry Events Your year-round guide to hardwood industry engagement. From international trade shows to regional meetups, the National Hardwood Lumber Association actively participates in events that connect, educate, and advance the hardwood industry. Explore our calendar to discover upcoming opportunities to engage with peers and industry leaders. Events that Move the Industry Forward Throughout the year, NHLA staff, members, and partners attend and host pivotal events designed to support professional development, promote North American hardwoods, and strengthen industry connections. Whether exhibiting, presenting, or networking, NHLA is at the heart of the conversation shaping the future of hardwoods. Explore Upcoming Events   Jun 8 - 10, 2026 NeoCon Learn More RSVP Jun 9 - 10, 2026 Hardwood Federation Fly-In Learn More RSVP Jun 25 - 28, 2026 72nd MLMA Convention and Trade Show Learn More RSVP Jul 14 - 17, 2026 2026 Forest Products Society International Conference Learn More RSVP Jul 22 - 26, 2026 SLMA 2026 Annual Conference Learn More RSVP Aug 1 - 4, 2026 AHMI Summer Conference Learn More RSVP Aug 11 - 13, 2026 71st Western Hardwood Association Annual Convention Learn More RSVP Aug 25 - 28, 2026 IWF Atlanta Learn More RSVP Sep 1 - 3, 2026 Saudi WoodShow Learn More RSVP Sep 2, 2026 2026 TFA Annual Convention Learn More RSVP Oct 6 - 9, 2026 SAF National Convention Learn More RSVP Oct 17 - 21, 2026 High Point Fall Market Learn More RSVP Event Date(s) Location Details NeoCon Jun 8 - 10, 2026 Chicago, IL Learn More Hardwood Federation Fly-In Jun 9 - 10, 2026 Washington, DC Learn More 72nd MLMA Convention and Trade Show Jun 25 - 28, 2026 Beau Rivage Resort and Casino, Biloxi, MS Learn More 2026 Forest Products Society International Conference Jul 14 - 17, 2026 Eugene, OR Learn More SLMA 2026 Annual Conference Jul 22 - 26, 2026 Point Clear, AL Learn More AHMI Summer Conference Aug 1 - 4, 2026 Williamsburg, VA Learn More 71st Western Hardwood Association Annual Convention Aug 11 - 13, 2026 Oregon Learn More IWF Atlanta Aug 25 - 28, 2026 Atlanta, GA Learn More Saudi WoodShow Sep 1 - 3, 2026 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Learn More 2026 TFA Annual Convention Sep 2, 2026 Nashville, TN Learn More SAF National Convention Oct 6 - 9, 2026 Tacoma, WA Learn More High Point Fall Market Oct 17 - 21, 2026 High Point, NC Learn More Upcoming Industry Events First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Interested in Hosting a Hardwood Industry Event? NHLA is proud to support the growth of hardwood education and advocacy through collaboration. If you’re organizing an event and want NHLA’s involvement — or if you’re interested in partnering to host future hardwood industry events — our Events Team is ready to work with you. Contact Ashley

Explore the National Hardwood Academy’s Course Calendar to view upcoming Inspector Training School cohorts, short courses, and online learning opportunities for hardwood professionals. Course Calendar Your central hub for upcoming training, classes, and education opportunities. The National Hardwood Academy Course Calendar brings together all upcoming educational offerings in one easy-to-navigate place. From full Inspector Training School cohorts to short courses, online learning, and continuing education programs, this calendar helps you plan your professional development with confidence. Course Calendar Course Type Date(s) Details No upcoming classes match your search criteria. Please check back soon. Inspector Training School Class 211 Inspector Training School June 8 - July 31, 2026 Learn More 4 Day Introduction to Grading Hardwood Lumber (Ohio Forestry Assn.) Short Course June 15 — 18, 2026 Learn More NHLA Inspector Online Training Program - Module 3 ITS - Hybrid July 13 — 31, 2026 Learn More Lumber Drying Class | Summer 2026 Short Course July 14 - 16, 2026 Learn More 3 Day Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading (hosted by Ron Jones Hardwoods) Short Course July 21 - 23, 2026 Learn More NHLA Inspector Online Training Program - Module 1 ITS - Hybrid Aug 10 - 21, 2026 Learn More 3 Day Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading Short Course Sep 9 - 11, 2026 Learn More 3 Day Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading at Convention Short Course Sep 15 - 17, 2026 Learn More Inspector Training School Class 212 Inspector Training School Sep 21 - Nov 13, 2026 Learn More NHLA Inspector Online Training Program - Module 3 ITS - Hybrid Oct 26 - Nov 13, 2026 Learn More NHLA Inspector Online Training Program - Module 2 ITS - Hybrid Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2026 Learn More First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Let's Find the Right Course for You Not sure which course best suits your needs? Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help you select the ideal training path to meet your goals. Contact Us

Advance your career with flexible online courses from the National Hardwood Academy. Learn hardwood grading, kiln drying, and more—on your schedule. Online Education Expert-led, flexible remote training tailored for the hardwood industry. Train anytime, anywhere with expert-led online courses specifically designed for hardwood industry professionals seeking a flexible and effective way to advance their skills. These courses also provide an ideal solution for employers aiming to develop their workforce without significant downtime or travel. Stay current with essential topics, build expertise, and grow your career. Industry-Approved, Flexible, Accessible Online Learning Access industry-leading training, wherever you are. Designed for Professionals : Sharpen your skills without leaving the job site. Flexible Learning : Self-paced or live-instruction formats, ideal for busy individuals or remote teams. Expert Instruction : Learn from the same trusted instructors as in-person programs. Course Topics : Hardwood lumber grading, kiln operation, yield optimization, and more. View Upcoming Classes Upcoming Online Courses There are currently no upcoming classes. Please check back soon. Load More Learn at Your Pace. Lead with Confidence. Wherever you are in your hardwood industry career, NHA’s flexible online courses empower you to build expertise, stay current with industry standards, and lead with confidence — all on your own schedule. Contact Us

Explore upcoming short courses from the National Hardwood Academy. Enhance your skills in hardwood lumber grading, kiln drying, quality control, and more. Short Courses Fast, affordable training to keep you ahead in the hardwood industry. NHA short courses are tailored for hardwood professionals aiming to build new skills, deepen industry knowledge, or advance their careers. These 1- to 5-day sessions cover essential topics such as grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, and quality control. Ideal for sawyers, kiln operators, supervisors, graders, sales staff, management, and more, these courses are offered at NHLA’s Memphis headquarters and select partner locations nationwide. Focused Training with Immediate Impact. Designed for Professionals : Build new skills, deepen knowledge, and advance your career. Course Topics : Grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, quality control, and more. Flexible Options : 1- to 5-day sessions available at NHLA's Memphis headquarters and partner locations nationwide. Ideal for : Sawyers, kiln operators, graders, sales staff, management, and more. View Upcoming Classes Upcoming Short Courses There are currently no upcoming classes. Please check back soon. Load More Let's Find the Right Course for You Not sure which short course best suits your team’s needs? Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help you select the ideal training path to meet your business goals. Contact Us

Explore Spanish-language training courses offered by the National Hardwood Academy. Learn about hardwood grading, kiln drying, and more. Clases en Español Capacitación profesional en la industria de la madera dura, impartida completamente en español. La Academia Nacional de Madera Dura se enorgullece de ofrecer cursos selectos completamente en español para apoyar al creciente número de profesionales hispanohablantes en la industria de la madera dura. Formación Profesional Accesible para Todos Las clases en español están dirigidas a trabajadores de aserraderos, operadores de hornos, inspectores de madera, y supervisores que desean aprender las reglas de clasificación NHLA o mejorar sus habilidades laborales. Los cursos son impartidos por instructores bilingües con experiencia de campo y se imparten con el mismo rigor y reconocimiento que nuestros programas en inglés. Ver próximas clases Próximas clases Actualmente no hay clases programadas. Vuelva a consultar pronto. Load More ¿Desea Otro Curso en Español? ¿Tiene un equipo que necesita capacitación en un tema específico? Podemos ayudar. Comuníquese con nuestro equipo para discutir opciones personalizadas de capacitación en español. Contacta con nosotros

Join the National Hardwood Lumber Association. Explore membership types, pricing, and how to become part of the hardwood industry's leading network. Join NHLA Membership is more than a list of benefits. It's your connection to the hardwood industry that gives you and your business a real competitive edge. Have any questions? Get connected with the NHLA team. Whether you're operating a sawmill, manufacturing hardwood products, supplying equipment, or serving customers around the world, NHLA connects you to the people, resources, and industry leadership that help your business navigate change and build for the future. Join the hardwood industry's most trusted network and become part of the community shaping what's next. Be Part of the Hardwood Industry's Most Trusted Network The hardwood industry is built on relationships, shared standards, and a commitment to moving forward together. For more than 125 years, NHLA has served as the voice of the hardwood industry, connecting members to education, advocacy, market insights, professional development, and one another. Membership provides access to valuable resources, but its greatest strength is the network behind it. Through NHLA, you'll build connections with industry leaders, gain access to trusted expertise, stay informed on the issues impacting your business, and contribute to the future of hardwood. Whether you're a long-established company or new to the industry, NHLA membership helps you stay connected, informed, and engaged in an ever-changing marketplace. Connect with the NHLA team today to explore membership options and see how NHLA can support your business. Membership Pricing Active Member Active Membership dues and qualifications are based on the sales of individuals, firms, or corporations involved in the manufacturing, custom kiln drying, wholesaling, or distribution of North American hardwood or cypress lumber, veneer, plywood, and related products. Eligible entities must maintain their headquarters in the U.S. or Canada. Business types eligible for membership include: Sawmills Dry Kilns Concentration Yards Distribution Yards Brokers Dimension Plants Wholesalers Annual Membership Dues (starting at) $1,550 Apply Now Associate Member Associate Membership is for individuals, firms, or corporations that consume North American hardwood or cypress lumber, veneer, plywood, and related products for manufacturing purposes.
 Eligible business types include, but are not limited to: Cabinet Shops Furniture and Flooring Manufacturers Molding and Millworks Pallet Manufacturers Annual Membership Dues $2,070 Apply Now Sustaining Member Sustaining Membership is for individuals, firms, or corporations that provide services, materials, or equipment to active or associate members, or who own North American hardwood timberlands that supply the raw materials for the industry. Eligible business types include, but are not limited to: Equipment Manufacturers and Dealers Insurance Agencies Consultants Software Developers Logistics and Transportation Providers Timberland Owners Annual Membership Dues $2,070 Apply Now Partner Member Individual firms or corporations engaged in consumption or manufacturing, custom kiln drying, wholesaling, or distribution of hardwood or cypress lumber, veneer, plywood and related products that have their headquarters outside of North America. Annual Membership Dues $1,790 Apply Now Inspector Member Individuals who grade or inspect hardwood lumber for an active or associate category company but do not operate their own inspection service business. Annual Membership Dues $80 Apply Now Research Member Individuals or organizations that conduct North American hardwood forestry or hardwood forest products utilization research, or who have an interest in hardwood research results. Examples include state or federal forestry departments, educational institutions and hardwood utilization research agencies. Annual Membership Dues $60 - $200 Apply Now Have Questions About Membership? We’re here to help. Whether you have questions about benefits, eligibility, or how NHLA membership can support your business, reach out to John Hester, Chief Development Officer, for personalized guidance. Let’s grow the hardwood industry together! Contact John

Learn about the National Hardwood Lumber Association—our mission, our legacy, and our commitment to serving the hardwood industry since 1898. About the National Hardwood Lumber Association The trusted voice and standards leader of the hardwood lumber industry since 1898. Founded in 1898 by 37 dedicated lumbermen in Chicago, NHLA was created to establish uniform standards for grading and trading hardwood lumber. Today, NHLA remains the foremost authority representing the entire hardwood supply chain—from production through distribution—serving both members and the broader hardwood consumer base with integrity and expertise. NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 Our History Our Mission NHLA is a membership-based international trade association advocating for the North American hardwood industry, representing timber producers, sawmills, lumber graders, wood products manufacturers, and other key professionals. While regional and state associations are valuable partners, NHLA stands as the unified voice that shapes industry standards and influences public policy. 
Our mission is to support businesses in the hardwood market by maintaining ethical standards and providing services that promote growth, success, and sustainability. We advocate for hardwoods as the sustainable, versatile choice for various industries and work to ensure our members' long-term success. Through exclusive networking opportunities and policy advocacy, NHLA keeps members well-equipped to thrive in a competitive market, driving both industry innovation and sustainability. Read the NHLA Bylaws The Team Behind NHLA NHLA’s strength comes from a dedicated team of professionals, educators, advocates, and leaders. From inspectors in the field to staff at headquarters, our team works tirelessly to advance the hardwood industry and support our members every day. Meet the NHLA Staff

Read the latest issue of Hardwood Matters, NHLA’s official magazine for the hardwood lumber industry. Explore past editions and stay informed. Hardwood Matters Magazine More than a magazine... the voice of the hardwood industry. Explore our current issue in flipbook format below, or dive into individual Hardwood Matters articles on our industry blog for expert insights and updates. Hardwood Matters is the NHLA’s monthly magazine, delivering stories, industry insights, and updates from every corner of the hardwood lumber sector for over 25 years. Browse the Current Issue Browse Past Issues May 2026 RSVP April 2026 RSVP March 2026 RSVP Jan/Feb 2026 RSVP First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Load More Have a Story to Share? Do you have company news, staff highlights, or ideas for articles? We want to hear from you! Help us shape future editions of Hardwood Matters and share your voice with the hardwood community. Contact Our Team