The National Hardwood Lumber Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity Employer The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. NHLA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 
We value diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee can thrive. NHLA encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply and is committed to providing equal opportunities for employment, growth, and advancement.

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