Job Opening Detail Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Position Description Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and prioritize those tasks. The foreman will also lead 2-5 others and assist them in prioritizing their work on a day to day basis. Daily tasks include creating the work plan for the day, ensuring logs are being sawn in the most efficient manner, monitoring of kilns, and surfacing of lumber/slabs. I am looking for a “go to person” that can make the “it depends” decisions that come with the nature of working with wood. Keeping the work area neat, clean and organized is important and I’m looking for someone that takes the same pride in their work area. Required Skills & Experience Significant experience in the sawmill/lumber/furniture industry is preferred, but lack of experience can be overcome if the candidate has an intense desire to learn and a good work ethic. Being mechanically inclined, able to make basic repairs on machinery, and oversee the PM of the machinery are required skills. I’m looking for someone that works with the same level of intensity whether I’m around or not and can encourage others to do the same. Salary & Benefits Pay will be based on the level of responsibility you assume and the profitability you help generate for the mill. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: info@berdollsawmill.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Managing Director of Manufacturing •Responsible for overseeing the end-to-end production and development of manufactured items, ensuring quality standards, timely delivery, and continuous improvement in processes and outcomes. •Oversee the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing department, including production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. •Identify areas for lean manufacturing principles, process improvement... November 13, 2025 Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc Kreamer, PA Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Service Technician, Alignment Smith Sawmill Service Service Technician, Alignment Smith Sawmill Service Remote, TX Position Description The Service Technician plays a critical role as a direct representative of Smith Sawmill Service, delivering expert service and support to our customers. This position involves the installation, maintenance, upgrades, and precision alignment of sawmill equipment at customer sites. Technicians work in a professional, customer-facing environment and are expected to uphold the highest standards of technical excellence and service quality. Duties/Responsibilities: Conducts precision alignment and calibration to ensure optimal performance. Maintain detailed service records and documentation. Identifies and analyzes equipment or machinery failures and takes corrective action. Provides training for equipment and machinery installed for customers. Perform on-site installation and servicing of sawmill machinery and equipment. Upsells company products while visiting customer facilities. Provides technical training to management and other team members. Ensure compliance with safety standards and company protocols. Performs other related duties as assigned. Required Skills & Experience Must have advanced knowledge of laser alignment tools and the ability to perform full laser alignment for customers. Thorough understanding of mechanical engineering. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software Ability to travel extensively. Physical Requirements: Must be able to access and navigate all areas of the production facility. Must be able to lift 50 pounds at a time. Salary & Benefits Smith Sawmill Service offers competitive pay, health, dental and vision insurance plans with generous employer contribution, company paid $50,000 life insurance, company paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability, 401k plan with company match, paid holidays and PTO time. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: employment@smithsawmillservice.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP

Species Guide Beech Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Beech is an important species within the huge family of Fagaceae in the silvicultural composition of the natural hardwood forests of North America which include oaks and chestnut, but beech is not one of the most commercially available. American beech tends to be darker in color and less consistent than European beech. The sapwood is almost white with a red tinge and the heartwood is light to dark reddish brown. The wood of beech is generally straight and close grained with uniform texture. It has medium bending and crushing strength, but is low in stiffness and shock resistance. The wood may exhibit brown mineral streaks in the heartwood which, under NHLA Grading Rules, are not considered a defect. Scientific Name Fagus grandifolia Avg. Board Length 8’ – 12’ Common Thicknesses 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4 Also Known As Beech Avg. Board Width 4” – 8” Avg. Dried Weight 3.8 lbs/bdft Where It Comes From Growth Distribution Beech trees grow widely across the eastern United States in mixed hardwood forests, although are concentrated in the central areas of the eastern States. American beech is different to European beech as the trees grow less tall and generally less straight and are frequently multi-stemmed in older stands. Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) data shows U.S. beech growing stock is 348 million m3, 2.6% of total U.S. hardwood growing stock. U.S. beech is growing 4.5 million m3 per year while the harvest is 3.8 million m3 per year. The net volume (after harvest) is increasing 0.7 million m3 each year. Beech has limited availability as sawn lumber, especially in higher grades and thicker sizes. This is attributed partly to the fact that most parcels of mixed species logs do not contain sufficient beech to produce a full charge for kiln drying. Furthermore beech, which is rather difficult to dry, requires a particular kiln schedule and cannot easily be mixed with other species. For this reason availability is mainly from specialist producers who can also usually supply steamed beech. The lumber is normally sold unselected for color and mainly in thicker specifications. Beech veneer is rarely available. 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications Beech is considered suitable where hardness and hardwearing properties may be essential. It is used in furniture, doors, flooring and panelling. It has specialist applications including tool and brush handles as it is easy to turn. Having no smell or taste, it is suitable for food containers. Flooring Panelling Tool Handles Turning

Job Opening Detail Lumber Grader Salamanca Lumber Company Lumber Grader Salamanca Lumber Company Salamanca, NY Position Description Position: We are seeking a reliable individual to fill a full-time position. Responsibilities include grading green and kiln-dried lumber. The position is Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm. Overtime is available, as necessary. Required Skills & Experience Requirements: Preferably NHLA certified or equivalent training/experience required. Salary & Benefits Benefits: You will have weekends off and 11 Paid Holidays. We offer Sick/Safe Leave, Vacation, Family Leave, and Bereavement Leave. We offer low-deductible medical coverage, dental health coverage, and life insurance. Employees will also have an opportunity to enroll in the company 401(k). The starting wage will be based on your experience and/or certification. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: AmeliaMorlock@SalamancaLumber.com Other Job Opportunities Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP Managing Director of Manufacturing •Responsible for overseeing the end-to-end production and development of manufactured items, ensuring quality standards, timely delivery, and continuous improvement in processes and outcomes. •Oversee the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing department, including production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. •Identify areas for lean manufacturing principles, process improvement... November 13, 2025 Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc Kreamer, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Inspector Robinson Lumber Company is looking to hire a full-time Lumber Inspector to work at our growing facility in New Albany, Indiana. Primary duties and responsibilities include consistent and accurate grading of lumber. A successful candidate must have previous lumber manufacturing experience and have the ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment. An NHLA grader certification is ideal but not required. November 11, 2025 Robinson Lumber Company New Albany, IN Learn More RSVP

Earn official NHLA Facility or Kiln Drying Certification to showcase your commitment to quality and compliance with grading and drying standards. Certification Programs Helping NHLA members raise the standard in the hardwood industry. NHLA Certification Programs set the standard for excellence in the hardwood industry. Whether you're looking to validate your lumber grading accuracy, enhance operational consistency, or establish credibility in the marketplace, our certification programs provide the assurance you need. Our certification programs were designed to help businesses and professionals demonstrate their commitment to quality and precision. NHLA Strap & Seal Financial Guarantee The NHLA Strap & Seal Financial Guarantee provides peace of mind to both buyer and seller that the contents of a shipment will meet or exceed the expectations of the purchase contract. The packages are strapped and sealed using individual serial numbers, identifying that the packages were inspected by an official NHLA Inspector and documented to ensure the validity of the inspection. If for any reason there is a quality issue with a financially guaranteed shipment, NHLA will reimburse the buyer the difference in the value of the shipment! This program is available for domestic shipments only. NHLA Facility Grade (FG) Certification The NHLA Facility Grade Certification Program is a voluntary Quality Assurance Program (QAP) for NHLA members who manufacture, sell, or purchase hardwood lumber. Participating companies demonstrate their commitment to quality and transparency by allowing independent, third-party verification of their lumber grading. Earning the distinction of being “NHLA Certified” sets your business apart from the competition and assures customers that your lumber is consistently on grade. Apply Now View Certified Companies NHLA Kiln Drying (KD) Certification The Kiln Drying Certification Program validates your drying process and documentation against industry standards. The NHLA Kiln Drying certification program can save exporters time and money. The program achieves the same goals as the APHIS Phytosanitary Certificate at a lower cost to your business. Apply Now View Certified Companies Ready to Get Certified? Whether you're just beginning the process or have questions about eligibility, the NHLA Team is ready to support you every step of the way. Contact Dana

Job Opening Detail Estimator ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Estimator ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Hanover, PA Position Description Analyze detailed blueprints and specifications to provide take off and quotes on all millwork products. Manage bid submission requirements for public and private bids. Compile entire estimate for review prior to submission. Analyze bids and proposals to validate cost and scope of work. Proactively develop relationships to expand & strengthen customer base. Extensive experience in providing comprehensive estimates. Provide value engineering throughout the RFQ Phase. Maintain open lines of communication between internal departments such as Project Manager, Drafting and Sales. Identify potential clients, their construction needs & how best to service them. Able to converse with Architects, Builders, Designers on specific aspects of their projects. Manage bid process to ensure bid is on time. Document, organize and maintain project information. Create and organize documentation into bid files. Request bid documents from various entities. Prepare written proposals for prospective projects. Estimate change orders. Collect and review quotations from vendors. Required Skills & Experience Adept with Residential and Commercial Construction Drawings. Experience in Architectural Millwork and Custom Cabinetry. Support Sales & Production Teams in Hanover, PA and White Marsh, MD. Review RFQs for accuracy and for Business Development opportunities. Forward relevant requests to appropriate department. Review Blueprints from a Business Development perspective and do take-offs for PA and MD. Work location will primarily be Hanover, PA, with infrequent onsite work in White Marsh, MD. Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-2:30pm. Salary & Benefits $50,000-$60,000/year based on experience with opportunity to earn overtime pay 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 Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP

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 Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Saw Filer SME Smith Sawmill Service Saw Filer SME Smith Sawmill Service Remote, NC Position Description Smith Sawmill Service is a multi-state manufacturing company that provides services and products that are designed around the ever-changing sawmills, chip mills, paper mills, and pallet manufactures. We are one of the largest saw manufacturing facilities in the country and an exciting place to grow your career. We are currently looking for a fulltime, motivated Saw Filer SME to join our East Coast Team. The ideal candidate is an experienced self-starter who enjoys working in a collaborative team environment. Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Assist the Senior Saw filer, SME in developing and leading training programs for new employees who will perform essential duties. Inspect saws from our shop, direct contact on quality issues and design improvements. Work closely with machine maintenance and alignment for equipment accuracy. Collaborate with mill managers and key maintenance leaders on machine sawing and cutting improvements. Act as a liaison between sales and manufacturing to ensure key accounts are continually monitored for optimal cutting tool performance. Performs other related duties as assigned. Required Skills & Experience Position Requirements: 5+ years saw filing experience (benching band saws and round saws). 7+ years' experience in lumber manufacturing. Ability to travel 80% of the time. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong supervisory and leadership skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate. Thorough understanding of or the ability to quickly learn about the project or product being developed. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Salary & Benefits Smith Sawmill Service offers competitive pay, health, dental and vision insurance plans with generous employer contribution, company paid $50,000 life insurance, company paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability, 401k plan with company match, paid holidays and PTO time. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: employment@smithsawmillservice.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Saw Filer SME Smith Sawmill Service Saw Filer SME Smith Sawmill Service Remote, GA Position Description Smith Sawmill Service is a multi-state manufacturing company that provides services and products that are designed around the ever-changing sawmills, chip mills, paper mills, and pallet manufacturers. We are one of the largest saw manufacturing facilities in the country and an exciting place to grow your career. We are currently looking for a fulltime, motivated Saw Filer SME to join our East Coast Team. The ideal candidate is an experienced self-starter who enjoys working in a collaborative team environment. Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Assist the Senior Saw filer, SME in developing and leading training programs for new employees who will perform essential duties. Inspect saws from our shop, direct contact on quality issues and design improvements. Work closely with machine maintenance and alignment for equipment accuracy. Collaborate with mill managers and key maintenance leaders on machine sawing and cutting improvements. Act as a liaison between sales and manufacturing to ensure key accounts are continually monitored for optimal cutting tool performance. Performs other related duties as assigned. Required Skills & Experience Position Requirements: 5+ years saw filing experience (benching band saws and round saws). 7+ years' experience in lumber manufacturing. Ability to travel 80% of the time. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong supervisory and leadership skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate. Thorough understanding of or the ability to quickly learn about the project or product being developed. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Salary & Benefits Smith Sawmill Service offers competitive pay, health, dental and vision insurance plans with generous employer contribution, company paid $50,000 life insurance, company paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability, 401k plan with company match, paid holidays and PTO time. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: employment@smithsawmillservice.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader About Us Nestled in the Endless Mountains of North Central Pennsylvania, Dwight Lewis Lumber is a fourth-generation, family-owned sawmill and timber management company managing over 15,000 acres of forest. We are FSC Certified and committed to sustainable and renewable forest management practices. Our operations include a modern sawmill and dry kiln facilities. Position Overview We are seeking a... December 17, 2025 Dwight Lewis Lumber Company Hillsgrove, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader Grading and tallying green hardwood lumber. December 15, 2025 Laurel Creek Hardwoods Inc. Richwood, WV Learn More RSVP Sawmill Foreman Berdoll Sawmill is a small, specialty hardwood sawmill looking for a Sawmill Foreman. As the mill owner, I am looking to step back from day to day operations and looking for a self-driven individual with high ethical standards and an appreciation for high quality work to step into that role. In this role, a good candidate will recognize tasks around the mill that need to be completed and... December 9, 2025 Berdoll Sawmill Cedar Creek, TX Learn More RSVP

Learn how NHLA sets and maintains the hardwood lumber grading rules used throughout North America. Explore the rulebook, change process, and video overview. NHLA Grading Rules The industry standard for hardwood lumber grading. For more than 125 years, the NHLA Grading Rules have defined the standard for consistent, fair, and accurate classification of hardwood lumber across North America. Trusted by sawmills, distributors, and manufacturers worldwide, these rules ensure transparency and reliability in every transaction. The Leading Authority on Standards for Hardwood Lumber Grading The NHLA is the official governing body responsible for developing, maintaining, and interpreting the hardwood lumber grading rules in North America. These rules create a shared language between buyers and sellers, ensuring fairness, consistency, and trust throughout the hardwood supply chain. Understand the Grading Rules, Apply Them with Confidence Whether you're a new lumber grader, a seasoned mill owner, or a hardwood lumber sales professional, understanding the NHLA Rules is essential for success. The official Grading Rules book is publicly available in multiple languages and supported by in-depth training from the National Hardwood Academy, along with on-site support from NHLA National Inspectors. Explore how new optimization technologies are also being used to improve grading accuracy. View the Grading Rules The NHLA Rules Change Process Every four years, NHLA reviews the hardwood lumber grading rules and accepts rules change proposals for consideration. In the final step of the process, ballots containing new rules change proposals are sent to all Active Members. Each Active Member may vote for or against the proposed rules change provided such ballot is returned to and received by NHLA within 30 days from the date on the ballot. Rules change proposals that receive a favorable vote on a two-thirds majority of the votes properly cast by the Active Members will be adopted and become effective January 1 of the proceeding year. Propose a Rule Change Have Questions About the Rules? Our team of National Inspectors is here to assist with rule interpretations, dispute resolution, and grader training. Let us help you navigate the standards with clarity and confidence. Contact Your Local Inspector

Explore rewarding careers in the hardwood industry, from lumber inspection to production management. See where an NHA education can take you. Career Opportunities Start your hardwood lumber industry career here. The hardwood lumber industry drives the U.S. economy, with strong demand for skilled professionals in sawmills, manufacturing, and beyond. Companies seek workers who understand lumber quality, grading, and production. National Hardwood Academy graduates are job-ready, equipped with hands-on skills respected worldwide, unlocking lasting career opportunities in a growing industry. Hardwood Industry Careers with Strong Growth Potential Vital to the U.S. Economy : Ongoing demand for skilled professionals in lumber grading, production, and manufacturing. Industry Needs : Sawmills and manufacturing companies require workers trained in lumber quality, NHLA grading rules, and production efficiency. Job-Ready Graduates : National Hardwood Academy graduates are equipped with skills recognized nationwide and internationally. Graduate Testimonials  “We feel it is extremely important to hire NHLA certified inspectors/graders. Not only did I get my start by attending Inspector Training School, but my youngest son did as well. Graduates know the rules and know what our customers are expecting. Since they understand this, our customers are always happy. When I am ready to send an employee to Inspector Training School, I look for a problem solver. Someone that is ambitious, reliable, and looking to better themselves. Lumber inspectors are revered in this industry, and ITS is a fantastic way to create a great career for yourself. ITS gave me the opportunity to grow in this industry. I have applied the education I got from there throughout my life, and it has been the most important thing that contributed to my success." Bucky Pescaglia President MO PAC Lumber Company  Career Paths Hardwood Lumber Grading Become an expert in evaluating and classifying hardwood lumber. Graders play a vital role in ensuring quality and consistency—skills that are in high demand across sawmills, distribution yards, and manufacturing facilities. Learn More RSVP Hardwood Lumber Sales Build lasting relationships and connect customers with the right products. Sales professionals combine product knowledge and communication skills to help drive growth for mills, distributors, and manufacturers worldwide. Learn More RSVP Production Management Lead teams, improve efficiency, and oversee every stage of the hardwood production process. Production managers play a key role in maintaining safety, quality, and profitability within modern manufacturing operations. Learn More RSVP Launch Your Career with the National Hardwood Academy Take the first step toward a stable, high-demand career in the hardwood industry. Our hands-on, industry-approved programs prepare you for success as a certified lumber grader, quality control professional, or production expert. Apply Now

Species Guide Alder Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Alder is the major commercial species grown on the western seaboard of the United States and is unique to the hardwood forest resources of North America; one of the few red hardwood species. Alder is almost white when freshly cut, but quickly changes on exposure to air, becoming light brown with a yellow or reddish tinge. There is no visible difference between the sap and the heartwood, although heartwood is formed only in older or mature trees. The wood of alder is fairly straight grain, somewhat similar in character to cherry, with uniform texture. Scientific Name Alnus rubra Avg. Board Length 6’ – 10’ Common Thicknesses 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4 Also Known As Alder, Red Alder, Western Red Alder, Western Alder Avg. Board Width 5” – 8” Avg. Dried Weight 2.3 lbs/bdft Where It Comes From Growth Distribution Alder trees grow prolifically in the Pacific Northwest under sustainable management. Alder has a relatively short rotation, taking less time to harvest than most other hardwoods. Alder is readily available as kiln dried sawn lumber and often sold under a range of unique grading rules. For grades not listed in the NHLA Hardwood Lumber Grading Rulebook, consult with your supplier. 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications This prolific hardwood from the Pacific Northwest, with excellent environmental credentials, is used for furniture, kitchen cabinets and interior joinery. It is also used for doors and panelling. Cabinets Doors Furniture Musical Instruments Panelling