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 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 Paychex Learn More RSVP Ryan & Jacobs 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

Learn about the National Hardwood Lumber Association—our mission, our legacy, and our commitment to serving the hardwood industry since 1898. About the National Hardwood Lumber Association The trusted voice and standards leader of the hardwood lumber industry since 1898. Founded in 1898 by 37 dedicated lumbermen in Chicago, NHLA was created to establish uniform standards for grading and trading hardwood lumber. Today, NHLA remains the foremost authority representing the entire hardwood supply chain—from production through distribution—serving both members and the broader hardwood consumer base with integrity and expertise. NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 Our History Our Mission NHLA is a membership-based international trade association advocating for the North American hardwood industry, representing timber producers, sawmills, lumber graders, wood products manufacturers, and other key professionals. While regional and state associations are valuable partners, NHLA stands as the unified voice that shapes industry standards and influences public policy. 
Our mission is to support businesses in the hardwood market by maintaining ethical standards and providing services that promote growth, success, and sustainability. We advocate for hardwoods as the sustainable, versatile choice for various industries and work to ensure our members' long-term success. Through exclusive networking opportunities and policy advocacy, NHLA keeps members well-equipped to thrive in a competitive market, driving both industry innovation and sustainability. Read the NHLA Bylaws The Team Behind NHLA NHLA’s strength comes from a dedicated team of professionals, educators, advocates, and leaders. From inspectors in the field to staff at headquarters, our team works tirelessly to advance the hardwood industry and support our members every day. Meet the NHLA Staff

Stay connected to the hardwood industry year-round. View upcoming trade shows, conferences, and events on NHLA’s industry events calendar. Industry Events Your year-round guide to hardwood industry engagement. From international trade shows to regional meetups, the National Hardwood Lumber Association actively participates in events that connect, educate, and advance the hardwood industry. Explore our calendar to discover upcoming opportunities to engage with peers and industry leaders. Events that Move the Industry Forward Throughout the year, NHLA staff, members, and partners attend and host pivotal events designed to support professional development, promote North American hardwoods, and strengthen industry connections. Whether exhibiting, presenting, or networking, NHLA is at the heart of the conversation shaping the future of hardwoods. Explore Upcoming Events Upcoming Industry Events Jan 13, 2026 2026 Winter Meeting | Missouri Forest Products Association Learn More RSVP Jan 14 - 16, 2026 LSLA | Lake States Lumber Association Learn More RSVP Feb 2 - 4, 2026 IHLA Convention Learn More RSVP Mar 4 - 7, 2026 HAWA Expo Learn More RSVP Mar 28 - 31, 2026 Interzum Guangzhou Learn More RSVP Mar 31 - Apr 2, 2026 International Mass Timber Conference Learn More RSVP Apr 12 - 14, 2026 2026 Spring NHLA Board of Directors Meeting Learn More RSVP Apr 17 - 18, 2026 Expo Richmond 2026 Learn More RSVP Apr 21 - 24, 2026 NWFA Expo Learn More RSVP Apr 21 - 23, 2026 Dubai WoodShow Learn More RSVP Jul 22 - 26, 2026 SLMA 2026 Annual Conference Learn More RSVP Aug 25 - 28, 2026 IWF Atlanta Learn More RSVP Interested in Hosting a Hardwood Industry Event? NHLA is proud to support the growth of hardwood education and advocacy through collaboration. If you’re organizing an event and want NHLA’s involvement — or if you’re interested in partnering to host future hardwood industry events — our Events Team is ready to work with you. Contact Ashley

Boost efficiency and reduce waste with NHLA’s yield analysis and quality control services—customized insights to improve hardwood lumber operations. Yield Analysis & Quality Control Services designed to help you maximize profits and minimize waste. NHLA provides professional on-site yield studies and quality control services to help sawmills and manufacturers make data-driven decisions that improve overall efficiency and profitability. NHLA Yield Analysis Program NHLA’s Yield Analysis Program helps hardwood manufacturers turn more raw material into usable product. Our experts conduct on-site reviews to uncover waste, improve efficiency, and strengthen consistency—then provide actionable insights proven to boost throughput, value, and ROI. Bottom line: we help you maximize every board. Request More Information Areas That Can Be Audited Headsaw Resaw Gangsaw Edger Trimmer Green Yard Dip Tank Dry Kilns Yield Analysis Testimonials  "We participated in the NHLA Yield Analysis Program, and it was exactly what I had hoped for. As a result, we have improved our yields, and that has added to our bottom line! The NHLA National Inspectors still call my managers just to see if they have any questions or concerns. " Mike Powers Executive Vice President Maley & Wertz  Quality Control Inspections In addition to the Yield Analysis Program, NHLA offers customized Quality Control (QC) inspections tailored to your operation. These inspections are designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, minimize waste, and help you maximize profit from every log. QC inspections can cover areas such as: Lumber grading accuracy and consistency Mill flow and production efficiency Equipment setup and optimization Request More Information Let's Optimize Your Organization If you're ready to improve your recovery rate, reduce costly mistakes, and elevate your quality, the NHLA team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a Yield Analysis or discuss your quality control goals. Contact Dana

Plan ahead for future NHLA Conventions. View confirmed dates and locations for upcoming events and start preparing your attendance early Future Conventions Discover where the hardwood industry is headed next and start planning today. The NHLA Annual Convention continues to bring together hardwood industry leaders, innovators, and professionals in premier cities across North America. Stay ahead by knowing where the next conventions will take place and how to secure your spot early. 2027: Cherokee, NC Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and Appalachian hospitality. Attendees will experience a one-of-a-kind convention surrounded by scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and the rich traditions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. From breathtaking mountain views to world-class resort amenities, Cherokee provides the perfect setting for connection, collaboration, and reflection on the enduring strength of the hardwood industry. 2028: Montreal, QC A city where old-world charm meets modern innovation, Montréal promises an unforgettable international convention experience. Stroll cobblestone streets lined with cafés and historic architecture, then explore a thriving arts and culinary scene that reflects the city’s vibrant cultural blend. As one of North America’s leading centers of design and trade, Montréal offers an inspiring backdrop for global networking, learning, and celebrating the continued growth of the hardwood industry. Have Questions About Future Conventions? Whether you’re planning to attend, exhibit, or sponsor, early preparation is key to making the most of each NHLA Annual Convention. Our dedicated events team is here to help you explore opportunities and get ahead in your planning. Contact John

Explore upcoming short courses from the National Hardwood Academy. Enhance your skills in hardwood lumber grading, kiln drying, quality control, and more. Short Courses Fast, affordable training to keep you ahead in the hardwood industry. NHA short courses are tailored for hardwood professionals aiming to build new skills, deepen industry knowledge, or advance their careers. These 1- to 5-day sessions cover essential topics such as grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, and quality control. Ideal for sawyers, kiln operators, supervisors, graders, sales staff, management, and more, these courses are offered at NHLA’s Memphis headquarters and select partner locations nationwide. Focused Training with Immediate Impact. Designed for Professionals : Build new skills, deepen knowledge, and advance your career. Course Topics : Grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, quality control, and more. Flexible Options : 1- to 5-day sessions available at NHLA's Memphis headquarters and partner locations nationwide. Ideal for : Sawyers, kiln operators, graders, sales staff, management, and more. View Upcoming Classes Upcoming Short Courses There are currently no upcoming classes. Please check back soon. Load More Let's Find the Right Course for You Not sure which short course best suits your team’s needs? Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help you select the ideal training path to meet your business goals. Contact Us

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 International Hardwood Matters 2026 RSVP November 2025 RSVP October 2025 RSVP September 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

Explore the NHLA Convention schedule, including session times, speaker panels, networking events, and more. Plan your convention experience. Convention Schedule Plan your convention experience with ease. Join industry leaders, hardwood professionals, and NHLA members from across the country for three days of expert-led sessions, networking events, and the premier hardwood trade show of the year. Use the interactive schedule below to plan your time and make the most of your NHLA Convention experience. 2026 Convention Schedule The 2026 Convention schedule will be posted soon! 2026 Convention Schedule Tuesday, September 15th Time Event Location Details Tuesday, September 15th 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Key Tower Conference Room Details A Golfers Only reception on Tuesday evening at the Marriott Rivercenter. Check-in to your room and come on down to meet your team and the other players. Grab your swag bag and a beer but turn-in early. Register Sponsor(s): ITSEF Golf Tournament Player’s Only Reception ITSEF Golf Tournament Player’s Only Reception + Pre-registration required By invitation only Wednesday, September 16th Time Event Location Details Wednesday, September 16th 7:00 AM Hotel Lobby Details Sponsor(s): Buses Depart for The Quarry Golf Club Buses Depart for The Quarry Golf Club + 8:00 AM Stonewater Golf Club Details Join us in supporting the mission of the Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) as we host the 2025 ITSEF Golf Classic alongside the NHLA Annual Convention at The Quarry Golf Club. Your participation aids in our mission to foster the ongoing development and advancement of the Inspector Training School and its graduates, nurturing them to become the future leaders of the hardwood industry. Let’s come together to build a stronger future for the hardwood industry! Register Sponsor(s): ITSEF Annual Golf Tournament ITSEF Annual Golf Tournament + 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Boardroom B Details Sponsor(s): AHEC Board Meeting AHEC Board Meeting + 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM Exhibit Hall Details Sponsor(s): Exhibitor Showcase Setup Exhibitor Showcase Setup + 11:00 AM Registration Desk Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Opens NHLA Registration Desk Opens + 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Conference Room C Details Sponsor(s): Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) + 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Conference Room D Details Sponsor(s): American Walnut Manufacturers Association (AWMA) American Walnut Manufacturers Association (AWMA) + 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Ballroom B Details Sponsor(s): Rossi 100th Anniversary VIP Reception Rossi 100th Anniversary VIP Reception + 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Ballrooms A & B Details Sponsor(s): Cascade Hardwood Welcome Reception Welcome Reception + 7:30 - 10:00 PM Conference Room C Details Sponsor(s): Jartek NHLA Board of Manager’s Dinner NHLA Board of Manager’s Dinner + Pre-registration required By invitation only Thursday, September 17th Time Event Location Details Thursday, September 17th 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ballroom B Details Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. Sponsor(s): Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales, Inc. Full Breakfast Buffet for all Attendees Full Breakfast Buffet for all Attendees + 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Registration Desk Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Open! NHLA Registration Desk Open! + Pre-registration required By invitation only Friday, September 18th Time Event Location Details Friday, September 18th 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Registration Desk Details Sponsor(s): NHLA Registration Desk Open! NHLA Registration Desk Open! + 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Ballroom B Details Sponsor(s): Classic American Hardwoods Canadian Hardwood Bureau Breakfast and Meeting Canadian Hardwood Bureau Breakfast and Meeting + 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Exhibit Showcase Details Yes, you must be present to win your prize! Sponsor(s): MO PAC Lumber Company Exhibit Showcase Grand Farewell Finale Prize Giveaway Exhibit Showcase Grand Farewell Finale Prize Giveaway + Pre-registration required By invitation only Have Questions About the Convention? Whether you're attending the NHLA Convention for the first time or you’ve been with us for decades, we’re here to make your experience smooth and successful. Have questions about the schedule, registration, or what to expect? Reach out to our team directly. Contact John

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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 NHLA reserves the right to update or modify these Terms of Use at any time. Changes will be posted on this page, and your continued use of the Site after such modifications constitutes your acceptance of the updated Terms of Use.
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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.