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

Read the latest issue of Hardwood Matters, NHLA’s official magazine for the hardwood lumber industry. Explore past editions and stay informed. Hardwood Matters Magazine More than a magazine... the voice of the hardwood industry. Explore our current issue in flipbook format below, or dive into individual Hardwood Matters articles on our industry blog for expert insights and updates. Hardwood Matters is the NHLA’s monthly magazine, delivering stories, industry insights, and updates from every corner of the hardwood lumber sector for over 25 years. Browse the Current Issue Browse Past Issues April 2026 RSVP March 2026 RSVP Jan/Feb 2026 RSVP International Hardwood Matters 2026 RSVP First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Load More Have a Story to Share? Do you have company news, staff highlights, or ideas for articles? We want to hear from you! Help us shape future editions of Hardwood Matters and share your voice with the hardwood community. Contact Our Team

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

Explore the core training programs at the National Hardwood Academy, including lumber grading, kiln drying, and production management. Learn more and apply today. Core Programs Discover your path at the National Hardwood Academy. The National Hardwood Academy offers expert training tailored to the evolving hardwood industry. Our flagship Inspector Training Program prepares students to become NHLA-certified lumber graders through hands-on instruction in grading rules and lumber inspection. Programs are available in both in-person and hybrid formats. In addition, we provide a range of short courses and webinars designed to help professionals stay current with the latest industry trends. Inspector Training School The Flagship Program of the National Hardwood Academy 75+ Years of Excellence : The Inspector Training School, now part of the National Hardwood Academy, has been the leader in hardwood grading education. Hands-On Learning : Students gain real-world skills in species identification, measurement techniques, rule interpretation, and inspection protocols. Career Ready : Ideal for aspiring lumber inspectors, quality control professionals, procurement specialists, or anyone looking to build a strong foundation in the hardwood industry. Apply Now Hybrid Inspector Training School Rigorous Training, Maximum Flexibility Our Hybrid Inspector Training School offers the same rigorous curriculum as the in-person program. Blended Learning : Combine in-person and online learning at your own pace. Hands-On Instruction : Gain practical experience alongside flexible online coursework. Official Certification : Complete both parts of the program and receive a certificate of completion. Perfect for working professionals or those balancing other commitments. Apply Now Short Courses Skill-Building Education to Further Your Career Designed for industry professionals and newcomers alike, our short courses cover specialized topics such as defect identification, kiln drying basics, and lumber grading updates. These targeted sessions provide practical knowledge and help you stay current with industry standards—available in convenient formats to fit your busy life. Apply Now

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    

Promote your brand to a focused audience of hardwood professionals through NHLA’s digital and print platforms. Contact John Hester for advertising opportunities. Advertise with NHLA Effectively reach key decision makers in the hardwood industry. The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) offers strategic advertising opportunities that connect your brand with a highly engaged, industry-specific audience—including hardwood producers, manufacturers, distributors, and decision-makers from every corner of the global hardwood supply chain. Why Advertise with NHLA? With over 125 years of trusted leadership and members spanning North America and beyond, NHLA stands as a cornerstone of the hardwood lumber industry. Our publications, digital platforms, and industry events provide advertisers unparalleled visibility, targeted reach, and brand alignment with key players. Explore opportunities such as magazine ads, website banners, event sponsorships, and newsletter placements tailored to maximize your ROI. View Our Media Kit Digital Website | Social | Email Print Publications | Direct Mail Events Sponsorships | Giveaways | Signage Explore Advertising Opportunities Today Ready to craft a targeted advertising strategy that delivers results? Contact our Chief Development Officer, John Hester, today to discuss your goals and reserve your space. Contact John

Watch videos from NHLA and across the hardwood community—education, events, industry profiles, and more. Submit your own video to be featured. Video Resources Explore the sights and sounds from the hardwood industry. Discover a growing collection of videos showcasing NHLA training programs, industry insights, behind-the-scenes hardwood operations, and inspiring member success stories. Stay informed and inspired with authentic content from the heart of the hardwood lumber industry. Video Library #NHLA2025 Ed Session: Reading the Market - What Today's Trends Mean for the Hardwood Industry 1:06:45 • 6 months ago RSVP Can American Hardwoods Solve the Climate Crisis? ... YES! 5:06 • 1 year ago RSVP Clearcutting, Harvesting, and Deforestation: What's the Difference 5:13 • 1 year ago RSVP They Said It Couldn’t Be Done… But Hardwoods Proved Them Wrong! 5:16 • 1 year ago RSVP How Trees Save the World: Carbon Sequestration Explained 5:06 • 1 year ago RSVP Trees: The Ultimate Renewable Resource 5:34 • 1 year ago RSVP Embracing Biophilic Design 5:47 • 2 years ago RSVP Choose Hardwoods 2:26 • 2 years ago RSVP An explanation of the American hardwood lumber grades by NHLA 17:39 • 2 years ago RSVP Bringing Nature Indoors 3:07 • 2 years ago RSVP Real American Hardwood - From CASCADE It's Every Bundle 0:22 • 2 years ago RSVP From Plank to Product | Path Design 1:26 • 3 years ago RSVP First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Share Your Videos NHLA members and partners are invited to share their stories. Whether it’s a facility tour, training session, project highlight, or community initiative, your video can help educate and connect the hardwood industry community. Submit a Video

Plan your trip to the NHLA Convention. View hotel details, discounted room rates, travel tips, and exclusive local perks in the host city. Convention Hotel & Travel Plan your trip to Cleveland for the 2026 NHLA Convention. Stay close to the action with our official host hotel and overflow option in downtown Cleveland. Attendees can stay at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown , our official Convention hotel connected directly to the Huntington Convention Center, or choose the nearby Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower, located just a short walk away. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations, convenient access to sessions and exhibits, and proximity to downtown dining, entertainment, and Lake Erie views - making either option a great choice for your stay. Important : Cleveland has several Marriott and Hilton properties in the area. To ensure you’re booked within the official event room blocks and closest to the convention, please confirm your reservation is at either the Hilton Cleveland Downtown or the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower. Rooms are limited at both locations and are expected to fill quickly. Book early to secure your discounted rate and preferred accommodations. BEWARE of Unofficial Housing Agencies! NHLA does not use an outside agency to book rooms. If you receive an email or phone call soliciting hotel rooms, IT IS A SCAM! DO NOT BOOK with any outside agency. Official Convention Hotel Hilton Cleveland Downtown Stay just steps from all the Convention action at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, our official event hotel. Located in the heart of downtown and connected to the Convention Center, this upscale hotel offers convenience, comfort, and unbeatable lake views. Rooms are limited - book early to guarantee your discounted rate. Address 100 Lakeside Avenue East Cleveland, OH 44114 Phone +1 (216) 413-5000 NHLA Room Rate $249/night (plus tax) Book Your Room Overflow Hotel Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower Just a five-minute walk from the Huntington Convention Center, the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of the city. Address 1360 West Mall Drive Cleveland, OH 44114 Phone +1 (216) 696-9200 NHLA Room Rate $249/night (plus tax) Book Your Room Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Cleveland Hopkins International is the primary airport for the city of Cleveland. Located 12 miles outside of the city, travelers can easily get to the hotel and convention center via an 18 minute taxi or Uber ride. Airport Website Special Attendee Discounts Delta Air Lines Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights. You may also call Conferences and Events® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY4D4 Book Now Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights via SWABIZ®. Discount valid for travel 9/13/2026 to 9/21/2026. Book Now United Airlines United Airlines is pleased to offer special discounts for the NHLA Convention attendees. Click below to book your flights using code ZRW8698823 . MileagePlus® members earn miles for their travel when using the United Meetings℠ discount code. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations. International customers may contact their local United® Reservation Desk. Book Now Avis Rent A Car NHLA attendees may receive special rental car rates through Avis using the Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD) code: T468981 . All discounts are subject to availability and individual provider terms and conditions. NHLA encourages attendees to book early to secure preferred rates. Book Now Local Restaurants Cleveland Chop Classic American steakhouse popular for business dinners and group dining with a lively atmosphere and great cocktails. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.3 miles – about a 6‑minute walk Reservations 824 W St Clair Avenue Cleveland, OH 44113 Fahrenheit Trendy rooftop restaurant offering steaks, seafood, craft cocktails, and skyline views—great for networking dinners. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.4 miles – about an 8‑minute walk Reservations 55 Public Square, Suite 150 Cleveland, OH 44113 Il Venetian Elegant Italian restaurant known for handmade pasta, refined service, and an excellent wine program. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.2 miles – about a 3‑minute walk Reservations 100 St Clair Avenue NE Cleveland, OH 44114 Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar Iconic Cleveland steakhouse located inside a restored historic bank building. Known for prime steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.5 miles – about a 10‑minute walk Reservations 623 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44114 Morton's The Steakhouse With a true blend of classic and contemporary, the Morton's ambiance is unmatched. From our innovative cocktail culture that fuels a bustling bar scene, to the elegant, sophisticated dining rooms that welcome guests for business, pleasure, and special events. At Morton's, we keep the buzz alive. Reservations 1600 W 2nd Street Cleveland, OH Oliva Steakhouse Upscale Italian‑style steakhouse featuring prime steaks, handmade pasta, and a stylish dining atmosphere. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.5 miles – about a 10‑minute walk Reservations 2038 E 4th Street Cleveland, OH 44115 Red, The Steakhouse Modern luxury steakhouse offering premium steaks, wagyu, seafood, and craft cocktails in an upscale setting. Distance from Convention Center: Approx. 0.4 miles – about an 8‑minute walk Reservations 417 Prospect Avenue E Cleveland, OH 44115 Have Questions About the Convention? Whether you're a first-time attendee, longtime exhibitor, or looking for the right sponsorship opportunity, our team is here to help you make the most of your convention experience. Contact John

Job Opening Detail Service Technician, Alignment Smith Sawmill Service Service Technician, Alignment Smith Sawmill Service Remote, AL 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 Required Skills/Abilities: 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 Domestic Wood Products Purchasing Assistant and Trainee Summary/Objective: This position’s primary role is to take over existing areas of our domestic wood purchasing program, responsible for purchasing assigned inventory items, maintaining appropriate levels of inventory, and collaborating with internal customers to keep everyone informed of pricing and market trends. The Domestic Wood Products Purchasing Assistant and Trainee drives business value... April 22, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP Outside Sales Representative – Lumber & Custom Mouldings Alan McIlvain Company is hiring an experienced Outside Sales Representative to grow and manage business across Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC, and Delaware. April 21, 2026 Alan McIlvain Company Lancaster County, PA; Maryland; Virginia; Washington, DC; Delaware Learn More RSVP Operations Manager This position is for a full-time, on-site role for an operations manager located in Kansas City, Missouri. The role will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of operations in the warehouse including pulling, milling, and loading material. The operations manager will report directly to the General Manager of the Kansas City yard. April 15, 2026 Liberty Hardwoods, Inc. Kansas City, MO Learn More RSVP