Plan your trip to the NHLA Convention. View hotel details, discounted room rates, travel tips, and exclusive local perks in the host city. Convention Hotel & Travel Plan your trip to Cleveland for the 2026 NHLA Convention. Stay close to the action with our official host hotel and overflow option in downtown Cleveland. Attendees can stay at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown , our official Convention hotel connected directly to the Huntington Convention Center, or choose the nearby Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower, located just a short walk away. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations, convenient access to sessions and exhibits, and proximity to downtown dining, entertainment, and Lake Erie views - making either option a great choice for your stay. Important : Cleveland has several Marriott and Hilton properties in the area. To ensure you’re booked within the official event room blocks and closest to the convention, please confirm your reservation is at either the Hilton Cleveland Downtown or the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower. Rooms are limited at both locations and are expected to fill quickly. Book early to secure your discounted rate and preferred accommodations. Official Convention Hotel Hilton Cleveland Downtown Stay just steps from all the Convention action at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, our official event hotel. Located in the heart of downtown and connected to the Convention Center, this upscale hotel offers convenience, comfort, and unbeatable lake views. Rooms are limited - book early to guarantee your discounted rate. Address 100 Lakeside Avenue East Cleveland, OH 44114 Phone +1 (216) 413-5000 NHLA Room Rate $249/night (plus tax) Book Your Room Overflow Hotel Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower Just a five-minute walk from the Huntington Convention Center, the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of the city. Address 1360 West Mall Drive Cleveland, OH 44114 Phone +1 (216) 696-9200 NHLA Room Rate $249/night (plus tax) Book Your Room Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Cleveland Hopkins International is the primary airport for the city of Cleveland. Located 12 miles outside of the city, travelers can easily get to the hotel and convention center via an 18 minute taxi or Uber ride. Airport Website Special Attendee Discounts Delta Air Lines Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights. You may also call Conferences and Events® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY4D4 Book Now Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights via SWABIZ®. Discount valid for travel 9/13/2026 to 9/21/2026. Book Now United Airlines United Airlines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights using code ZRW8698823 . MileagePlus® members earn miles for their travel when using the United Meetings℠ discount code. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations. International customers may contact their local United® Reservation Desk. Book Now Avis Rent A Car NHLA attendees may receive special rental car rates through Avis using the Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD) code: T468981 . All discounts are subject to availability and individual provider terms and conditions. NHLA encourages attendees to book early to secure preferred rates. Book Now Local Restaurants Cleveland Chop Classic American steakhouse popular for business dinners and group dining with a lively atmosphere and great cocktails. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.3 miles – about a 6‑minute walk Reservations 824 W St Clair Avenue Cleveland, OH 44113 Fahrenheit Trendy rooftop restaurant offering steaks, seafood, craft cocktails, and skyline views—great for networking dinners. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.4 miles – about an 8‑minute walk Reservations 55 Public Square, Suite 150 Cleveland, OH 44113 Il Venetian Elegant Italian restaurant known for handmade pasta, refined service, and an excellent wine program. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.2 miles – about a 3‑minute walk Reservations 100 St Clair Avenue NE Cleveland, OH 44114 Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar Iconic Cleveland steakhouse located inside a restored historic bank building. Known for prime steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.5 miles – about a 10‑minute walk Reservations 623 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44114 Morton's The Steakhouse With a true blend of classic and contemporary, the Morton's ambiance is unmatched. From our innovative cocktail culture that fuels a bustling bar scene, to the elegant, sophisticated dining rooms that welcome guests for business, pleasure, and special events. At Morton's, we keep the buzz alive. Reservations 1600 W 2nd Street Cleveland, OH Oliva Steakhouse Upscale Italian‑style steakhouse featuring prime steaks, handmade pasta, and a stylish dining atmosphere. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.5 miles – about a 10‑minute walk Reservations 2038 E 4th Street Cleveland, OH 44115 Red, The Steakhouse Modern luxury steakhouse offering premium steaks, wagyu, seafood, and craft cocktails in an upscale setting. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.4 miles – about an 8‑minute walk Reservations 417 Prospect Avenue E Cleveland, OH 44115 Have Questions About the Convention? Whether you're a first-time attendee, longtime exhibitor, or looking for the right sponsorship opportunity, our team is here to help you make the most of your convention experience. Contact John

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 March 2026 RSVP Jan/Feb 2026 RSVP International Hardwood Matters 2026 RSVP December 2025 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

Get in touch with NHLA staff. Visit our Memphis headquarters or use the form to submit your inquiry—we’re here to support the hardwood industry. Contact NHLA We’re here to support your success in the hardwood industry. Send Us a Message First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Company Topic* How can we help you? Message* I agree to the NHLA Privacy Policy Submit NHLA Headquarters 6830 Raleigh Lagrange Rd. Memphis, TN 38134 P.O. Box 34518 Memphis, TN 38184 (901) 377-1818 (901) 382-6419 Follow Us    

Job Opening Detail Lumber Yard Manager Matson Lumber Company Lumber Yard Manager Matson Lumber Company Brookville, PA Position Description Matson Lumber Company, a family-owned and operated business dedicated to excellence in the hardwood lumber industry, is seeking a proactive and experienced Yard Manager to oversee our day-to-day yard operations to include goal setting, overall profitability and operational costs, promoting safety, quality, productivity, scheduling, employee staffing, training and discipline, supervision, facility appearance, inventory and maintenance. This position involves Senior-level decision making regarding financial planning, budgeting and expense management. This position reports directly to the President. Job Duties: 1. SAFETY PROGRAM - Review safety reports, coordinate corrections., oversee and enforce safety policies and procedures. Assess yard, equipment and buildings for safety concerns and address immediately. 2. QUALITY CONTROL – Enforce organizational standards to ensure lumber is received, manufactured, graded and scaled in accordance with Matson specifications. 3. STAFFING, EMPLOYEE CULTURE AND WELLBEING – Collaborate with human resources and production supervisor with hiring, training needs, discipline, documentation. Establish a positive and respectful environment and hold Supervisors and employees accountable. Respond quickly and proactively to employee complaints and/or concerns. 4. COST MANAGEMENT – Responsible for senior level management and decision-making decisions regarding operating expense management, capital expense management, payback/ROI of new equipment and continuous improvements and cost efficiency gains 5. PRODUCTION SCHEDULING – Coordinate efforts by working as a team with operational production flow and guidelines and with daily scheduling of Grading Lines, Stacker and Planer Lines 6. PRODUCTION LINE PRODUCTIVITY – Works with President on setting and achieving production goals, budgeting costs and implementing change and monitoring production levels of grading lines, stacker, kiln drying and planer. 7. HIGH LIFT PRODUCTIVITY – Ensure proper and timely loading/unloading of incoming and outgoing trucks, green lumber inspection line, stacker, pre-dryer and dry kilns. 8. FACILITY CUSTODIAN - Ensure appearance/upkeep/organization of all areas, buildings, roads and equipment and lumber. 9. INVENTORY, PARTS, AND SUPPLIES - Manage required physical inventory counting and stay aware of daily lumber inventory and maintain adequate supplies. 10. EQUIPMENT AND MAINTENANCE - Work closely with maintenance to oversee the proper operation of all production equipment and rolling stock, manage an effective preventative maintenance program and make timely and cost-effective repairs to equipment that minimizes downtime. Manage capital expense projects, coordinate with contractors and service providers. 11. SUPERVISION – *Monitor efficiency of lines, work hours, pay and over-time and understand and enforce Matson Lumber’s employee handbook and policies. *Communicate job expectations, monitor and appraise job results and coach and monitor training needs *Discipline employees and provide communication regarding need for improvement. *Resolve personnel problems by collecting and analyzing data, investigating issues, identifying solutions and ensuring proper documentation and actions. *Approve all overtime, supply purchases and mileage slips *Ensure compliance with State and Federal Regulations including OSHA and DEP Required Skills & Experience Job Requirements: *Bachelor’s degree preferred, GED required *Minimum 3+ years experience managing a lumber yard with 20+ employees required *3+ years experience in the wood products industry required *Proven experience with operating expense management, capital expense management and payback/ROI required *Strong leadership, communication and team management skills with a proven ability to motivate and lead a team *Proven comradery among all team members and a commitment to company culture initiatives *Excellent problem-solving, organization and communication skills *Knowledge of industry-related safety and environmental regulations *Proficiency in operational and business software systems *2+ years grading experience preferred Physical/Safety Requirements: *Must be able to lift or carry 50+ pounds *Bending, stooping, squatting, climbing *Pulling and reaching *Working in open warehouses subject to temperature, humidity, noise and dust *Standing, walking *Personal protective equipment required: ear plugs, eye protection and steel-toed boots. Salary & Benefits Matson Lumber Company offers a competitive compensation package (salary + bonus) along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Matson Lumber Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: jsorek@matsonlumber.com Other Job Opportunities Band Saw Filer Due to retirement, Quality Hardwoods, Inc. is seeking a Band Saw Filer. Experience preferred but will consider proper skills and ability. Send resume and references to: Quality Hardwoods, Inc., PO Box 38, Sunfield, MI 48890-0038 or email info@qualityhardwoodsinc.com . Phone: (517) 566-8061. March 19, 2026 Quality Hardwoods, Inc. Sunfield, MI Learn More RSVP Lumber Mill Assistant Manager Job Description: The Assistant Mill Manager will oversee the Millwork operations. The Assistant Mill Manager role will include the development of Millwork capabilities, employees, and efforts for continuous improvement. The performance of the Mill will be measured with various metrics on production, efficiency, labor usage, lead times, quality control, profitability, and organization. The... March 19, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP Moulder Machine Setup and Operations Expert (Weinig) At Classic American Hardwoods, Inc., we are seeking an experienced Moulder Machine Setup and Operations Expert (Weinig) to join our team. This role is crucial for producing high-quality custom mouldings, such as Base, Crown, Face Frame , and Stiles and Rails. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Weinig moulding machines and a deep understanding of wood processing, profile cutting, and machine calibration. February 23, 2026 Classic American Hardwoods, Inc. Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP

Partner with NHLA to support the hardwood industry, increase brand visibility, and offer value to members. Explore current partners and contact us today. Corporate Partnerships Partner with NHLA to shape the future of hardwood. The NHLA Corporate Partnership Program connects leading companies with the hardwood industry’s most engaged decision-makers — from sawmills and manufacturers to global exporters and industry suppliers. As a partner, your brand gains year-round exposure, trusted alignment with the NHLA name, and direct access to the businesses shaping the future of hardwoods. Why Become a Corporate Partner? As a corporate partner, you'll receive year-round brand visibility across our most influential platforms, including our website, Hardwood Matters magazine, and our annual convention. Gain exclusive opportunities to drive business with member discounts and connect directly with NHLA's engaged network of industry professionals. It's a smart way to build brand recognition and grow alongside the hardwood community. Program Benefits Featured Recognition at the NHLA Convention Advertising in NHLA Publications and Newsletters Opportunities for Sponsored Content Priority Exhibit Space & Brand Placement Direct Engagement with NHLA Members & Leadership Exclusive Member Deals From Our Corporate Partners ADP Learn More RSVP AtoB Learn More RSVP Bass Pro Shops Learn More RSVP Dell Technologies Learn More RSVP FedEx Learn More RSVP Greenlane Learn More RSVP Lenovo Learn More RSVP Medical & Voluntary Benefits Learn More RSVP Paychex Learn More RSVP Ryan & Jacobs Learn More RSVP Solo Stove Learn More RSVP Let's Build Something Together Reach the decision-makers who power the hardwood supply chain. NHLA Corporate Partnerships offer unmatched visibility, influence, and access across the industry — from the forest to the final product. Contact Jared Klepko to explore tailored partnership opportunities that meet your goals. Contact Jared

Reconnect with fellow graduates of the National Hardwood Academy. Explore class directories, alumni news, and support the Inspector Training School Education Foundation. Alumni Network Honoring generations of hardwood leaders. For over 75 years, graduates of the National Hardwood Academy and Inspector Training School have shaped the hardwood industry through craftsmanship, connection, and leadership. Our alumni network spans generations and continents—linking professionals in every corner of the hardwood supply chain. A Legacy Spanning Generations Graduates of the National Hardwood Academy and its predecessor, the NHLA Inspector Training School, form a powerful global network of hardwood industry professionals. From quality control supervisors and lumber inspectors to mill managers, buyers, and business owners—our alumni lead at every level. This network is more than a list of names. It’s a living legacy of craftsmanship, camaraderie, and leadership that continues to strengthen the hardwood industry. Alumni stay connected through events, industry involvement, and a shared commitment to excellence. Alumni Class Directory No classes match your search criteria. ITS Class 210 Graduation: October 31, 2025 View Website ITS Class 209 Graduation: August 29, 2025 View Website ITS Class 208 Graduation: February 28, 2025 View Website ITS Class 207 Graduation: November 1, 2024 View Website ITS Class 206 Graduation: August 2, 2024 View Website ITS Class 205 Graduation: March 1, 2024 View Website ITS Class 204 Graduation: November 17, 2023 View Website ITS Class 202 Graduation: July 28, 2023 View Website ITS Class 203 Graduation: July 28, 2023 View Website Load More Education Foundation Support the Next Generation of Hardwood Leaders The Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF) helps ensure future generations have access to the same world-class training and support that shaped today’s hardwood leaders. Through fundraising efforts like the annual ITSEF Golf Tournament, alumni and industry partners come together to fund scholarships and expand educational access. Learn More About ITSEF Alumni News There are currently no alumni articles to display.

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  All instruction at the NHA campus in Memphis, TN  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

Review the terms and conditions for using the National Hardwood Lumber Association's website, products, and services. Learn about your rights, responsibilities, and site usage policies. Terms of Use Welcome to NHLA.com! By accessing or using our website, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following Terms of Use. These terms govern your use of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) website, and by using the site, you accept and agree to these terms.
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Read the latest issue of Hardwood & Design magazine. Explore past editions and stay informed. Hardwood & Design Magazine Too authentic to imitate. Too inspiring to miss. In architecture and design, authenticity is essential. As clients demand sustainable materials and timeless beauty, hardwood stands out—not just as a resource, but as a revelation. Hardwood & Design continues this conversation with case studies, inspiration, and education that challenge architects and designers to explore hardwood’s full potential. Browse the Current Issue Browse Past Issues March 2026 RSVP Jan/Feb 2026 RSVP International Hardwood Matters 2026 RSVP December 2025 RSVP First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Load More Have a Story to Share? Do you have hardwood design news, project highlights, or ideas for articles? We want to hear from you! Help us shape future editions of Hardwood & Design. Contact Our Team

Meet the dedicated professionals and leaders of the NHLA, including our staff, national inspectors, board members, and past chairmen. NHLA Staff & Board Meet the people who lead, support, and represent NHLA across the hardwood industry. From our headquarters team in Memphis to inspectors across the country and our elected Board of Managers, NHLA’s leadership is comprised of passionate professionals dedicated to advancing the hardwood lumber industry. Dallin Brooks NHLA Executive Director Dallin Brooks serves as Executive Director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), bringing extensive experience in hardwood and treated wood markets. Before joining NHLA, he spent ten years as Executive Director of the Western Wood Preservers Institute (WWPI), where he transformed the organization from a reactive industry group into a proactive leader in content, standards, and quality control. His work included developing smartphone apps for industry guides, maintaining inspection programs, advancing research on quality metrics, and successfully advocating for legislation affecting treated wood. Since joining NHLA, Dallin has focused on strengthening the association’s role in market development, product innovation, and member services. He has led initiatives to expand educational offerings, enhance grading standards, and promote hardwood sustainability and quality on a global scale. He also works closely with policymakers to advocate for the industry on trade, workforce, and regulatory issues. Dallin holds a BSc in Wood Products Processing and an MSc in Forest and Society from the University of British Columbia. He also has experience introducing thermally modified wood from Finland to North America for niche hardwood markets. Growing up in the forests of British Columbia, he brings a lifelong connection to the woods. (901) 377-1082 Email Dallin NHLA Staff John Hester Chief Development Officer (901) 399-7558 Email John Dana Spessert NHLA Chief Inspector (901) 399-7551 Email Dana Natalie Thelen Chief Marketing Officer (971) 279-0833 Email Natalie Sailesh Adhikari Director of Research and Development (901) 399-7552 Email Sailesh Melissa Ellis Creative Director (901) 399-7553 Email Melissa Desiree Freeman Chief Financial & Operating Officer (901) 399-7591 Email Desiree Brennah Hutchison Hardwood Industry Liaison and Content Director (901) 399-7580 Email Brennah Ashley Johnson Convention & Events Director (901) 399-7559 Email Ashley Jared Klepko, JD, MBA Corporate Partnership & Member Engagement Manager (901) 399-7560 Email Jared Roman Matyushchenko Associate ITS Dean & National Inspector (901) 399-7569 Email Roman Kathryn Mitchell Office Assistant (901) 399-7557 Email Kathryn Darci Shannon Member Services Advisor (901) 399-7567 Email Darci Rachel Spiers Blossman Digital Marketing Consultant (901) 399-7554 Email Rachel NHLA Board of Directors - Executive Committee Bucky Pescaglia Chairman of the Board Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. Stephanie VanDystadt Vice Chairman of the Board Hull Forest Products Jon Syre Past Chairman (2022-2024) Cascade Hardwood LLC Rob Cabral Market Impacts Mission Leader Upper Canada Forest Group Vince Catarella Convention Mission Leader Baillie Lumber Co. Bill Courtney Membership & Networking Services Mission Leader Classic American Hardwoods Greg Fitzpatrick Finance Chair Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Sam Glidden ITS & ISTEF Mission Leader GMC Hardwoods, Inc. George Swaner Information Services Mission Leader Swaner Hardwoods Company, Inc. Trent Yoder Lumber Services Mission Leader Yoder Lumber Co., Inc. Current NHLA Board Members Ed Armbruster Current Board Member Hood Distribution Brady Banks Portman Current Board Member Banks Hardwoods, Inc. Chuck Boaz Current Board Member Corley Manufacturing Co. Parker Boles Current Board Member Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales, Inc. Tom Coble Market Impact Deputy Mission Leader Hartzell Hardwoods, Inc. Guy Dollinger Current Board Member DZD Hardwood Inc. Alex Fischer Current Board Member Liberty Hardwoods Brant Forcey ITS & ITSEF Deputy Mission Leader Forcey Lumber Company Jason Gobel Current Board Member NWH Matt Gutchess Information Services Deputy Mission Leader Gutchess Lumber Co., Inc. Patti Heintzelman Current Board Member Keiver-Willard Lumber Corp. Sean Herlihy Current Board Member Holt and Bugbee Company Tyler Kamps Current Board Member Kamps Hardwoods, Inc. Jesse LaSon Current Board Member Rossi Group Chris McQueen Current Board Member Anthony Oak Flooring Andy Nuffer Current Board Member RAM Forest Products, Inc. Tim Pleimann Lumber Services Deputy Mission Leader Farrow Lumber Co. Mike Powers Current Board Member Maley & Wertz Lumber, Inc. Chris Rider Membership & Networking Services Deputy Mission Leader AHC Hardwood Group Jason Sencaj Convention Deputy Mission Leader Adentra Companies Shane Underwood Current Board Member Granite Valley Forest Products, Inc. Scott Wesberry Current Board Member Fred Netterville Lumber Co. Past NHLA Chairmen Jon Syre 2022 - 2024 Cascade Hardwood LLC Jeff Wirkkala 2020 - 2022 Hardwood Industries, Inc. Darwin Murray 2018 - 2020 McClain Forest Products Brent Stief 2016 - 2018 Huron Forest Products, Inc. Pem Jenkins 2014 - 2016 Turn Bull Lumber Co. Scott Heidler 2012 - 2014 Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co. Dave Redmon 2010 - 2012 Highland Hardwood Sales, Inc. Ted Rossi 2008 - 2010 Rossi Group Jim Howard 2006 - 2008 Atlanta Hardwood, Inc.

Bring expert hardwood training directly to your team with NHLA’s in-house education programs. Customized instruction, delivered at your facility. In-House Training Custom training delivered to you and your staff at your facility. Bring the power of professional hardwood education straight to your team with expert-led, on-site training from the NHLA National Inspectors. Our in-house programs are customized to your operation’s needs and delivered by experienced instructors—so your workforce gains practical, immediately applicable skills without leaving the job site. Train Your Teams. On Your Terms. NHLA’s in-house training program gives your team access to industry-recognized instruction—without the downtime or travel. We partner with companies across North America to deliver custom training programs designed to boost skillsets, productivity, and consistency across your operation. Every session is led by an NHLA National Inspector with decades of hands-on industry experience. Training is structured for real-world impact—so your employees can apply what they learn immediately. Training Topics Include NHLA Lumber Grading & Inspection Kiln Drying Techniques & Moisture Management Yield Analysis & Quality Control Production Flow & Efficiency Safety, Maintenance, & Operational Best Practices Interested in In-House Training for Your Team? Whether you need a one-day refresher or a multi-day custom curriculum, NHA’s in-house training program adapts to your schedule, your team, and your goals. Our experts will help you assess your training needs and build a program that delivers measurable results. Contact Us

Discover what life is like as a student at the National Hardwood Academy. Explore our Memphis campus, class camaraderie, and life outside the classroom. Student Life Make lifelong memories in Memphis. Located at NHLA’s Memphis headquarters, the National Hardwood Academy offers the only full-scale hardwood lumber grading school in the country. The facility features a dedicated classroom and a warehouse stocked with real boards for hands-on training. Students learn in a professional, industry-standard environment alongside expert instructors and peers. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, this is where the hardwood industry trains its future leaders. Campus Life Your Home Away From Home The NHA campus offers state-of-the-art classroom and warehouse facilities designed for hands-on hardwood industry training. Our immersive learning environment helps students gain the skills needed for successful careers in lumber grading, inspection, and more. Class Camaraderie Learn Together, Grow Together At NHA, students join class cohorts that begin 3–4 times per year, fostering teamwork and camaraderie. Through collaborative hands-on training, students build strong bonds that support personal growth and professional success. Many alumni carry these relationships beyond graduation, forming lifelong friendships and valuable industry networks. For many, NHA is more than education — it’s a transformative experience. Meet the Alumni Life in Memphis Beale Street and Beyond Known as the "Hardwood Capital of the World," Memphis' strategic location along the Mississippi River and major rail lines made it a timber trade hub. Today, it's home to the National Hardwood Academy and a city rich in craftsmanship and culture. Peaceful Campus : Safe, quiet surroundings for focused learning. Southern Hospitality : Legendary barbecue, live music, outdoor parks, and history. Welcoming Atmosphere : Memphis offers a perfect blend of opportunity and charm. Come for the training, stay for the experience. Ready to Start Your Journey? Join the National Hardwood Academy and gain more than a world-class hardwood education. Develop new skills, create lifelong friendships, and make unforgettable memories — all in the heart of Memphis. Apply Now