Secure your spot at the NHLA Annual Convention. View registration pricing, early bird deadlines, and register online for the hardwood industry’s top event. Convention Registration Attend the 2026 NHLA Convention in Cleveland, OH. Join hundreds of hardwood industry professionals for three days of learning, networking, and growth at the largest and longest-running hardwood industry gathering in North America. In 2026, we’re heading to Cleveland, OH - the Rock ‘n Roll Capital of the World. Everything You Need to Know About Convention Registration Registration for the NHLA Annual Convention is now open! Whether you're a member, non-member, exhibitor, or guest, we offer a range of registration options to fit your needs. Take advantage of early bird pricing and discounted group rates. All registrations include access to: • Educational sessions and panels • Trade show exhibit hall • Networking receptions and social events Bringing your team to the 2026 NHLA Convention & Exhibit Showcase? Take advantage of our group registration discounts and experience the hardwood industry’s premier event together while saving on registration costs. Groups of 5 - 9 attendees receive 10% off each registration, and groups of 10 or more receive 20% off each registration. Contact our team at registration@nhla.com for assistance with group registration and planning your convention experience. See Who's Attending Convention Registration Pricing Member Registration  Welcome reception with appetizers & open bar  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday & Friday  Lunch buffet on Thursday & Friday  Keynote speaker on Thursday & Friday General Session  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday & Friday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $750 (Member Guest: $525) Non-Member Registration  Welcome reception with appetizers & open bar  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday & Friday  Lunch buffet on Thursday & Friday  Keynote speaker on Thursday & Friday General Session  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday & Friday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $1,500 (Non-Member Guest: $1,050) One Day Pass  Only valid on Thursday, September 17, 2026  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday  Lunch buffet on Thursday  Keynote speaker on Thursday  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $450 (Non-Member: $900) Sessions Available for Add-On ITSEF Golf Tournament: $250 Opening Jam Welcome Reception (Spouse/Guest ONLY Sessions & 1-Day Pass): $50 Better Together Reception at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: $25 (for everyone) Encore Celebration: $100 for all full registrations, $150 for Spouse/Guest ONLY Sessions Spouse Lunch Cruise: $150 Have Questions About Convention Registration? We’re here to help. Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a returning exhibitor, or looking to sponsor an event, our team is happy to assist. Contact John

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 Responsible for the accurate inspection and grading of green hardwood lumber according to NHLA grading rules, with an emphasis on quality assurance. This position also oversees the accurate sorting, stacking, and compiling of load quantities prior to customer shipment. June 18, 2026 Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc St Marys, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader The Lumber Inspector is responsible for visually inspecting and grading hardwood lumber according to NHLA rules and guidelines. This role ensures lumber is accurately sorted, tallied, and moved through production efficiently. Key Responsibilities Visually inspect, measure, and grade hardwood lumber to NHLA standards Identify defects such as knots, splits, wane, checking, stain, and other... June 8, 2026 Maple Ridge Hardwoods Sterling Michigan Learn More RSVP Millwrights and Electricians Email for details May 25, 2026 Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Marshville, Laurinburg & Liberty NC Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Kiln Supervisor Kennebec Lumber Company Kiln Supervisor Kennebec Lumber Company Wentworth, NH Position Description Lead daily yard and kiln operations to achieve safety, quality, and efficiency targets. Plan schedules and staffing to ensure proper coverage and continuity. Monitor kiln drying, performance, and inventory flow to meet production needs. Conduct safety huddles, quality checks, and routine inspections. Coordinate with maintenance for repairs and preventive care. Enforce policies, SOPs, and safety standards while fostering teamwork and accountability. Required Skills & Experience Experience in kiln, yard or industrial operations with supervisory responsibilities. Strong knowledge of lumber drying operations. Solid background in safety programs and compliance. Effective planning, communication, and leadership skills. Ability to work flexible schedules in mill and outdoor environments. Salary & Benefits $65,000-$85,000 PTO / 401k contribution / Health + Dental How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: ccallahan@kennebeclumber.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader Responsible for the accurate inspection and grading of green hardwood lumber according to NHLA grading rules, with an emphasis on quality assurance. This position also oversees the accurate sorting, stacking, and compiling of load quantities prior to customer shipment. June 18, 2026 Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc St Marys, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader The Lumber Inspector is responsible for visually inspecting and grading hardwood lumber according to NHLA rules and guidelines. This role ensures lumber is accurately sorted, tallied, and moved through production efficiently. Key Responsibilities Visually inspect, measure, and grade hardwood lumber to NHLA standards Identify defects such as knots, splits, wane, checking, stain, and other... June 8, 2026 Maple Ridge Hardwoods Sterling Michigan Learn More RSVP Millwrights and Electricians Email for details May 25, 2026 Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Marshville, Laurinburg & Liberty NC 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

Job Opening Detail Lumber Grader Connect Staffing Lumber Grader Connect Staffing Orange, California Position Description MINIMUM 1 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN A LUMBER YARD SORTING LEAD. Connect Staffing is seeking a Lumber Sorting Lead for a company that manufactures different high end hardwood flooring in the city of Orange, CA. Schedule: Monday through Friday 1st shift 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM Pay: $30/hr+ * open to relocation assistance* Requirements for Lumber Grader: Must have at least 1 year of experience as a Lead with lumber sorting/ grading Must be familiar with the NHLA Lumber grading rules Ability to safely operate a sitdown forklift, or willingness to learn. Ability to safely lift and move lumber and materials weighing up to 50 lbs. as needed. Ability to work outdoors in a yard environment for the duration of the shift. Prior experience in roles such as Lumber Puller, Yard Worker, Forklift Operator, Material Handler, Warehouse Associate, or Shipping and Receiving is a big plus! Benefits of the Lumber Grader: Affordable health and dental benefits CalSavers retirement program available Employee referral program Responsibilities of the Lumber Grader: Pull lumber accurately for customer orders in the yard. Receive containers of lumber and unload material using a large forklift. Sort, organize, and check in lumber against paperwork. Inspect lumber for grade, count, and visible damage. Stage and organize materials to maintain a clean and safe yard environment. All candidates meeting the minimum requirements will receive an SMS invite to an AI-based interview. This interview helps us understand your qualifications and experience, and candidates who complete it will receive first consideration. Please expect a text message from (302) 405-6282 within 30 minutes of submitting your application. See all our current openings and waitlists at jobs.connectstaffing.com! Required Skills & Experience Must have NHLA Lumber grading experience/certification Salary & Benefits Pay ranges from $30/hr. The company is open to offering higher rates if relocation is necessary. How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: nancy.v@connectstaffing.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Grader Responsible for the accurate inspection and grading of green hardwood lumber according to NHLA grading rules, with an emphasis on quality assurance. This position also oversees the accurate sorting, stacking, and compiling of load quantities prior to customer shipment. June 18, 2026 Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc St Marys, PA Learn More RSVP Lumber Grader The Lumber Inspector is responsible for visually inspecting and grading hardwood lumber according to NHLA rules and guidelines. This role ensures lumber is accurately sorted, tallied, and moved through production efficiently. Key Responsibilities Visually inspect, measure, and grade hardwood lumber to NHLA standards Identify defects such as knots, splits, wane, checking, stain, and other... June 8, 2026 Maple Ridge Hardwoods Sterling Michigan Learn More RSVP Millwrights and Electricians Email for details May 25, 2026 Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Marshville, Laurinburg & Liberty NC Learn More RSVP

Learn about the Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF), how it supports NHA students through scholarships, and how you can contribute. Education Foundation Empowering the next generation of hardwood professionals. The Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF) exists to strengthen the future of the hardwood industry by removing financial barriers to quality education. As a nonprofit foundation, ITSEF provides direct support to students enrolled in the National Hardwood Academy’s flagship programs. Supporting the Next Generation Through generous donor contributions, ITSEF helps: Fund scholarships for aspiring lumber inspectors and industry professionals Expand access to NHA’s hands-on, career-focused training Promote long-term workforce development within the hardwood industry Support initiatives that build leadership and expertise across generations When you give to ITSEF, you’re investing in people — and in the enduring success of the hardwood supply chain. The ITSEF Scholarship Scholarships that Change Lives The ITSEF Scholarship helps eliminate financial obstacles for students committed to careers in the hardwood industry. Available to applicants of the NHA Inspector Training School and select short courses, this scholarship program supports individuals who show passion, potential, and need. Click below to complete the ITSEF Scholarship Application form. Applicants may be asked to provide a short essay, references, and basic financial information. Who Qualifies? Individuals accepted into the NHA Inspector Training School New entrants and career changers seeking formal training in hardwood grading Students demonstrating financial need and industry commitment Apply for ITSEF Scholarship Fundraising to Support Future Students Throughout the year, ITSEF hosts a variety of fundraising events that bring the hardwood community together in support of education and workforce development. From our annual golf tournament to networking socials and industry raffles, each event helps fund scholarships and expand opportunities for deserving students. View Upcoming Fundraisers Upcoming Fundraisers There are currently no upcoming fundraisers. Please check back soon. Load More Your Support Builds Futures Every dollar donated to ITSEF creates opportunities for individuals ready to lead in the hardwood industry — they just need the chance to get started. Join us in shaping the future by supporting scholarships, training, and long-term success. Donate Now

Showcase your business at the NHLA Convention. View exhibitor pricing, booth availability, and explore the exhibit hall floorplan. Convention Exhibit Connect with key decision-makers in the hardwood industry. Exhibiting at the NHLA Annual Convention gives your business direct access to senior-level decision-makers, buyers, and influencers from across the hardwood lumber supply chain. Showcase your products, services, and innovations to a focused and engaged audience—face-to-face. Why Should You Exhibit at the NHLA Convention? As the premier hardwood lumber event in North America, the NHLA Annual Convention offers a unique opportunity to position your company in front of hundreds of industry professionals. Exhibitors gain high-value exposure and unmatched networking opportunities with leaders from sawmills, kiln operations, distribution, manufacturing, and more. Benefits of Exhibiting Connect with Hardwood Manufacturers, Wholesalers, and Service Providers Meet Top Buyers face-to-face, Build Relationships, and Close Deals Showcase New Products, Technologies, and Services Enhance Brand Recognition with Pre-Event Promotions Increase ROI Through Direct, Targeted Engagement Exhibit Booth Pricing  Premium booth placement  Pipe and drape  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support  Two (2) complimentary exhibition badges Booth Package Includes $2,750 Reserve Your Booth 10x10 Premium Booth NHLA Members Only  Pipe and drape  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support  Two (2) complimentary exhibition badges Booth Package Includes $2,250 Reserve Your Booth 10x10 Standard Booth NHLA Member Rate Booth Package Includes $3,750 Reserve Your Booth 10x10 Standard Booth Non-Member Rate  Pipe and drape  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support Note : Convention registration must be purchased separately. Booth Package Includes $4,500 Reserve Your Booth 10x20 Premium Booth NHLA Members Only  Premium booth placement  Pipe and drape where appropriate  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support  Four (4) complimentary exhibition badges Booth Package Includes $6,750 Reserve Your Booth 10x30 Premium Booth NHLA Members Only  Premium booth placement  Pipe and drape where appropriate  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support  Four (4) complimentary exhibition badges Booth Package Includes $9,000 Reserve Your Booth 20x20 Premium Booth NHLA Members Only  Premium booth placement  Pipe and drape where appropriate  Company name sign  Listing in the convention program and website  Access to exhibitor setup and teardown support  Six (6) complimentary exhibition badges 2026 Exhibit Hall Floor Plan Like Standard Booth Premium Booth Taken On Hold Having trouble viewing the floorplan? Open in New Tab Interested in Exhibiting at the Convention? Don’t miss your chance to make a lasting impression at the hardwood industry’s biggest event of the year. Reach out to secure your booth and explore sponsorship opportunities that fit your brand. Contact John

Species Guide Cherry Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Cherry is a supreme hardwood species from the U.S. hardwood forests and is unique to North America, with warm color tones and superb finishing qualities. The heartwood of cherry can vary from rich red to reddish brown and darkens on exposure to light with time. The sapwood is creamy white. Although the difference between heart and sap color is marked, this can be reduced by steaming. The wood of cherry has a fine uniform, straight and unpronounced grain with a fine smooth texture. The small brown pith flecks, pin knots and gum pockets or streaks are natural characteristics of cherry, but their occurrence varies according to region. Scientific Name Prunus serotina Avg. Board Length 6’ – 14’ Common Thicknesses 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4 Also Known As Cherry, Black Cherry Avg. Board Width 4” – 10” Avg. Dried Weight 2.9 lbs/bdft Where It Comes From Growth Distribution Cherry trees grow principally in the northeast of the United States in mixed hardwood forests. The species is different from the many floral cherries planted throughout the world. It is a single species; the trees growing tall and often in dense stands in several U.S. states, notably Pennsylvania, New York, Virginia and West Virginia. Cherry has a relatively short rotation, taking less time to mature than other hardwoods. Much of the current resource is the result of cherry’s ability to regenerate naturally after forest fires. FIA data shows U.S. cherry growing stock is 423.6 million m3, 2.9% of total U.S. hardwood growing stock. American cherry is growing 10.3 million m3 per year while the harvest is 4.9 million m3 per year. The net volume (after harvest) is increasing by 5.4 million m3 each year. U.S. cherry growth exceeds harvest in all the main producing states. Cherry is readily available as veneer and sawn lumber in a range of grades and sizes, although limited as thicker material; 10/4” (63mm) & 12/4” (75mm). 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 sustainably managed wood from natural forests of North America, with excellent environmental credentials, is revered worldwide for its warmth of color and fine finish. It is highly suitable for furniture, cabinet making and high class joinery. It is widely used for doors, panelling, architectural interior joinery, mouldings and kitchen cabinets, and some flooring. It is also used in certain specialist applications such as musical instruments and boat interiors. Cabinets Mouldings Musical Instruments Panelling

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

Species Guide Sassafras 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

Species Guide Pecan 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

Register for upcoming hardwood industry webinars or watch previous sessions on-demand. Stay informed with expert-led training from NHA and NHLA. Webinars Master hardwood skills with expert-led webinars. Stay sharp with live and on-demand webinars led by experts from every corner of the hardwood supply chain. Whether you’re tuning in to learn the latest grading updates, business strategies, or technical innovations, our webinars are built to inform, engage, and keep you ahead in the industry. Hard-Hitting Hardwood Content Our webinar series covers essential topics such as NHLA grading rules, lumber inspection techniques, sawmill best practices, sales strategies, and more. Dive into live sessions designed to keep you ahead of industry changes, or access our library of recorded webinars at your convenience. Live webinars are free to attend for NHLA members and non-members alike. View Upcoming Webinars Upcoming Webinars There are currently no upcoming webinars. Please check back soon. January 22, 2025 Understanding Statistical Process Control ($PC) Learn More Topic: Sawmill Operations RSVP February 19, 2025 Contracts Matter: Protecting Your Business From Costly Liabilities Learn More Topic: Risk Management RSVP March 26, 2025 Learn More About the KD Certification Learn More Topic: Kiln Drying RSVP April 23, 2025 Exploring the Future of Structural Hardwood Learn More Topic: Hardwood Market Trends RSVP April 30, 2025 Rules Change Webinar Learn More Topic: Grading Hardwood Lumber RSVP May 21, 2025 NHLA Thermal Modification Task Force: Why It Matters and How to Get Involved Learn More Topic: Thermal Modification RSVP June 11, 2025 Kiln Drying 101 with Dr. Adam Taylor Learn More Topic: Kiln Drying RSVP July 30, 2025 Convention Preview Webinar: What to Expect at NHLA 2025 Learn More Topic: NHLA Convention RSVP September 17, 2025 Navigating Tariffs in the Hardwood Industry Learn More Topic: Tariffs RSVP Load More On-Demand Webinar Library Missed a live session? Catch up anytime with our full archive of recorded webinars covering every aspect of the hardwood industry. NHLA members enjoy exclusive access to all webinar recordings as a member benefit. Non-members can view replays for a nominal fee. Browse Past Webinars Past Webinars There are currently no past webinars. Please check back soon. January 22, 2025 NHLA Year in Review Topic: NHLA General Business Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Hardwood Innovations: Technology & Value-Added Products Topic: Hardwood Technology Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Thermal Wood & Insurance Topic: Hardwood Market Trends Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Structural Hardwood: Standards, Codes & Design Topic: Hardwood Market Trends Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Policy: What’s Changing and How It Affects You Topic: Advocacy Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 What to Look Forward to at NHLA 2026 Topic: NHLA Convention Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Family Business Succession—Myths You’ve Heard, Facts You Need Topic: Risk Management Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Part 3: Hardwood, National Security & Domestic Demand Topic: Hardwood Market Trends Learn More RSVP January 22, 2025 Part 2: Global Demand and U.S. Hardwood Logs and Lumber Topic: Hardwood Market Trends Learn More RSVP Load More Interested in Hosting a Webinar? Are you an industry expert with valuable knowledge to share? NHLA is always looking for engaging presenters to lead webinars on technical skills, operational excellence, sustainability, market trends, and more. If you have insight to offer, we’d love to collaborate. Contact Us