The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) supports the hardwood industry through membership, education, grading rules, and advocacy. Proudly advancing the hardwood industry since 1898. At NHLA, we're committed to ensuring North American hardwoods remain in high demand and thriving. From forest to finished product, we support every link in the hardwood supply chain through education, advocacy, and the industry standards that strengthen, sustain, and keep us competitive. Whether you're a producer, processor, or buyer, NHLA helps you build a stronger, more resilient business. Learn More National Hardwood Lumber Association Strong Roots. Global Reach. Membership Benefits NHLA is dedicated to helping your business thrive while driving industry success. From setting standards to providing marketing support and advocating for the hardwood sector, our membership ensures you're equipped to grow and stay competitive. Learn More Boost Your Reputation Boost Your Reputation Earn trust by aligning with the world’s most recognized authority in hardwood lumber grading and industry standards. NHLA membership solidifies your credibility and commitment to excellence. Boost Your Reputation Earn trust by aligning with the world’s most recognized authority in hardwood lumber grading and industry standards. NHLA membership solidifies your credibility and commitment to excellence. World Class Events World Class Events Gain exclusive access to the NHLA Annual Convention and other premier networking events. Meet industry leaders, explore emerging trends, and forge partnerships that drive your business forward. World Class Events Gain exclusive access to the NHLA Annual Convention and other premier networking events. Meet industry leaders, explore emerging trends, and forge partnerships that drive your business forward. Expert Guidance & Training Expert Guidance & Training Leverage NHLA’s National Inspectors, seasoned educators, and technical specialists. From hands-on training to personalized consulting, we’re here to help you improve yield, quality, and profitability. Expert Guidance & Training Leverage NHLA’s National Inspectors, seasoned educators, and technical specialists. From hands-on training to personalized consulting, we’re here to help you improve yield, quality, and profitability. Unmatched Industry Advocacy Unmatched Industry Advocacy Benefit from NHLA’s role in representing the hardwood industry’s interests at every level. We advocate for policies that protect your business, open new markets, and strengthen our entire sector. Unmatched Industry Advocacy Benefit from NHLA’s role in representing the hardwood industry’s interests at every level. We advocate for policies that protect your business, open new markets, and strengthen our entire sector. Exclusive Member Savings Exclusive Member Savings Enjoy special discounts through our corporate partnerships with leading brands like Bass Pro Shops. These savings add value to your membership while supporting both your business and personal lifestyle. Exclusive Member Savings Enjoy special discounts through our corporate partnerships with leading brands like Bass Pro Shops. These savings add value to your membership while supporting both your business and personal lifestyle. National Hardwood Academy The National Hardwood Academy is the premier education and training hub for the hardwood industry. Built on over 75 years of excellence, the Academy equips the next generation of hardwood professionals with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to succeed. Explore the Academy Industry News Where Hardwood is Losing Value View Website Hardwood markets are under pressure. Explore how mills can improve yield, recover more value and adapt as demand, trade and costs shift. September 2, 2026 Read More Know Your Numbers. Strengthen Your Mill | Sawmill Benchmarking View Website See how confidential sawmill benchmarking can help hardwood mills compare production, recovery, labor, costs, energy use, safety and more. September 2, 2026 Read More Economic Impacts of the U.S. -Iranian War on the Hardwood Industry View Website Explore the 2026 hardwood lumber market outlook as energy costs, mortgage rates, housing, remodeling and global trade reshape demand. September 2, 2026 Read More September 2, 2026 Where Hardwood is Losing Value Hardwood markets are under pressure. Explore how mills can improve yield, recover more value and adapt as demand, trade and costs shift. Read Article Know Your Numbers. Strengthen Your Mill | Sawmill Benchmarking Read Article Economic Impacts of the U.S. -Iranian War on the Hardwood Industry Read Article Level the Playing Field Read Article From the Mill Floor to the National Conversation | Crossroads Strategies Initiative Read Article From the Field: Marty Westeen Read Article

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 Wood Finisher J. Gibson McIlvain Wood Finisher J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Position Description We are looking to hire a skilled Wood Finisher to prime and finish moldings and other wood products. Working in the finishing room, you will be required to examine the product, identify damaged areas and apply various custom finishes. Position requires a keen eye for color and shading and the ability to use various products and techniques to create custom color matches. To ensure success as a Wood Finisher, you should have basic woodworking skills, extensive knowledge of finishing techniques such as spraying, rolling, or wiping on. We run both spray machines and flood coaters with an occasional manual application. This position requires a good eye for detail. Job Responsibilities: Create control samples to match customer’s supplied information. Inspect the item for any physical damage. Sand and smooth the item in preparation for finishing, including repairing minor damage, filling cracks, etc. Spray finish paint or coatings. Inspect the final product for quality before releasing for shipment. Package for a safe and prompt delivery. Maintain spray equipment, Airless/Air-assist HVLP, gravity-fed HVLP cup guns. Hand finishing, fine wood veneers, sanding through grits, color matching, stain application, sanding sealers, top coating, booth maintenance, and pump maintenance. Perform finishes for cabinets using brush, spray, or hand-rub finishing ingredients, such as paint, oil, stain, or wax, onto and into wood grain; then apply lacquer or other sealers with an HVLP spray system. Smooth, shape, repair, and touch-up surfaces to prepare them for finishing, using sandpaper, steel wool, chisels, sanders, or grinders. Select appropriate finishing ingredients depending on intended use, wood hardness, and surface type. Distress surfaces with woodworking tools or abrasives before staining to create an antique appearance or rub surfaces to bring out highlights and shadings. Required Skills & Experience Previous experience as a Wood Finisher or Painter Strong attention to detail Knowledge of staining and finishing techniques High School Diploma or GED Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00am to 3:30pm Reliable transportation to White Marsh, MD. Must pass pre-employment drug screening Salary & Benefits Rate of Pay Based on Experience Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, 401K How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: bsysantos@mcilvain.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Sawmill Supervisor Kennebec Lumber Company Sawmill Supervisor Kennebec Lumber Company Wentworth, NH Position Description Lead sawmill operations to achieve safety, quality, and production targets. Plan and coordinate production schedules Monitor yields, enforce quality standards, and conduct grade checks. Foster employee development through training, coaching, and cross-training. Collaborate with maintenance and other departments to minimize downtime. Report on production metrics and operational performance. Required Skills & Experience Experience in sawmill, lumber, or industrial production environments. Strong knowledge of sawmill operations, processes, and equipment. Solid background in workplace safety and regulatory compliance. Organizational and scheduling skills with adaptability to changing needs. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency with basic computer applications and production reporting. Salary & Benefits $65,000 - $85,000 PTO / 401K Contribution / Health & Dental / + More How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: ccallahan@kennebeclumber.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Skilled Cabinet Maker ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Skilled Cabinet Maker ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Hanover, PA Position Description IDC is looking for the right candidate who can deliver cabinets that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Using the specifications provided by our foreman, you will use your building and mathematical skills to create cabinets that meet very specific guidelines. You will work alongside the other members of our building team to create an important product that is in high demand. This is a great way to put your carpentry skills to use in an environment where your experience and insight will be sincerely valued. Job Responsibilities: Construct and assemble cabinet components and doors, making sure that all pieces fit the dimensions specified by the foreman and client Verify and double check all calculations to ensure alignment of doors, hinges, and side panels, always using blueprints or design plans for reference. Clean and repair all equipment necessary for your work, including handsaws, table saws, skill saws, and a variety of drills and sanding tools Be exact in measurements and markings so that materials will be used efficiently, and the projects will meet budgetary restrictions Install the appropriate hardware, such as hinges and handles, drawer slides and other custom hardware as specified Match materials and grains to create a uniform appearance for all the matching units Maintain a safe working environment by cleaning and disposing of old materials, keeping workspace clean and organized Required Skills & Experience Basic Qualifications: Safety conscience attitude and experience Must possess skills, knowledge, and experience in the field of inventory/warehouse Strong work ethic with the ability to be flexible in a fast-paced, changing environment Must work well as a team member Highly organized and strong communication skills Requirements: A minimum of 2 or more years of custom cabinetmaking experience At least a GED or High School Diploma or higher Schedule is Monday-Friday, 6:30am to 2:30pm Able to read & construct from printed shop drawings Understanding of necessary mathematics, use of measurements down to the 1/16 Knowledge of materials and processing Applicable engineering and design skill High attention to detail Salary & Benefits Rate of Pay Based on Experience Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, Paid Holidays, 401K How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: bsysantos@mcilvain.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Lumber Inspector Silver Leaf Sawmill/PNHL CO. Lumber Inspector Silver Leaf Sawmill/PNHL CO. Elmira, MI Position Description OPERATE A MODERN GRADING STATION/TRIM LINE IN YOUR DUTIES AS LUMBER INSPECTOR; GRADING ON AVERAGE 25K OF LUMBER DAILY, CONSISTING OF 80% HARD MAPLE ANNUALLY. GAIN EXPERIENCE AND THE ABILITY TO SET UP TALLIES AND TRUCKLOADS WITHIN OUR AUTOMATED TALLY SYSTEM. Hours of operation vary, 40-50 hours weekly. SOME CLEANUP AT WORKSTATION IS MANDATORY. Required Skills & Experience MUST BE PROFICIENT AND GRADING LUMBER OF ALL GRADES EXCEPT WALNUT. MUST HAVE SOME MECHANICAL APTITUDE TO RUN MACHINERY. MUST HAVE THE ABILITY TO EVENTUALLY SET UP TALLY SYSTEM AND DOCUMENT PRODUCTION AS NEEDED. Salary & Benefits $25.00 PER HOUR HEALTH/DENTAL/OPTICAL (50% premium paid by employer) 10 DAY paid time off - 15 DAY over 5 years of service 401K How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: dwalston@silverleafsawmill.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Species Guide Sap Gum Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Sap gum is an important and diverse group of hardwoods, often undervalued and growing sustainably throughout the Eastern and particularly the South Eastern USA. Not to be confused with Australian gum (Eucalypt). Sap gum has a fine uniform texture, but has irregular grain, usually interlocked, often with an attractive grain figure. The sap of gum tends to be wide and is white to light pink in color, whereas the heartwood is reddish brown, typically with dark streaks. Scientific Name Liquidambar styraciflua Avg. Board Length 8’ – 16’ Common Thicknesses 4/4 Also Known As Sap Gum, Red Gum, Sweet Gum Avg. Board Width 6” – 9” Avg. Dried Weight 3.6 lbs/bdft Where It Comes From Growth Distribution Sap gum trees are large with straight trunks growing widely across the South Eastern USA. There are several other, non-commercial, gums that also grow across the United States. FIA data shows U.S. gum growing stock is 714.6 million m3, 4.9% of total U.S. hardwood growing stock. American gum is growing 22.9 million m3 per year while the harvest is 11.7 million m3 per year. The net volume (after harvest) is increasing 11.2 million m3 each year. U.S. gum growth exceeds or is in balance with harvest in all the main producing states. Sap gum is available as sawn lumber and veneer in a variety of grades and sizes. It is usually sold as sap gum with no color specification. Under NHLA Grading Rules each clear cutting must have one red (heartwood) face. When sorted for color red gum (majority heartwood) is much more limited in availability. Lumber is more likely to be available in thinner stock (4/4” & 5/4”) and may be more limited in export markets. 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications Main uses are cabinet making, furniture and furniture parts, doors, internal joinery and mouldings. Gum has been used and stained, as a substitute for walnut or mahogany. Cabinets Doors Furniture Mouldings

Job Opening Detail Millwrights and Electricians Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Millwrights and Electricians Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Marshville, Laurinburg & Liberty NC Position Description Email for details Required Skills & Experience 1-year previous experience required Salary & Benefits Email for details How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: bradvinson@ewpi.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Mill Assistant O'Shea Lumber Company Mill Assistant O'Shea Lumber Company Glen Rock, PA Position Description O'Shea Lumber is looking for a full-time lumber millwork assistant; experience preferred: must be able to read a tape measure, and have math and organizational skills. Knowledge of moulder equipment is a plus. Opportunity for growth! Starts at $19.00 / hour, but may be commensurable with experience. Required Skills & Experience Math skills and ability to read a tape measure down to 1/32, ability to lift heavy boards, organizational skills, knowledge of mill machinery (planer, gang rip saw, etc.) and the moulder is a plus.. Salary & Benefits Starting at $19/hr but could be commensurate upon experience. Medical / dental insurance, HSA, 401k, paid days off How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: anton@oshea.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Lumber Inspector Kitchens Lumber Company Lumber Inspector Kitchens Lumber Company Utica, MS Position Description Required Skills & Experience Previous experience in grading lumber. NHLA schooling is preferred but not mandatory. Walking Lumber chain turning boards and using lumber grading rulers. Familiar with lumber grading rules, tally machine, and lumber crayon stick. Salary & Benefits Salary based on experience Health Insurance Dental How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: kitchenslumbercompany@gmail.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Species Guide Aspen Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Scientific Name Avg. Board Length Common Thicknesses Also Known As Avg. Board Width Avg. Dried Weight Where It Comes From Growth Distribution 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications

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