September 2025 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine by Component Manufacturing Advertiser

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry

Sheathing:

Truss solutions from idea to installation.

Transform your truss operation with an integrated solution from Simpson Strong-Tie. The industry leader in truss plates now brings you a full suite of software, equipment, hardware and services to drive truss component manufacturing from idea to installation. Start with CS Director™, CS Truss Studio™, CS EWP Studio™ and CS Producer™ for design, layout, production and project management. Use our powerful Monet DeSauw industrial saws to cut webs, chords, stair stringers, rafters and wedges with speed and precision. Specify the optimal connectors, anchors and Strong-Drive ® structural fasteners for every project. You can also complement your team with our professional truss design services at any time. Altogether, you have a smart solution made to increase productivity, ensure high quality and take your business to the next level.

To learn more, contact your representative at (800) 999-5099 or visit us online.

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: Knowing the Rules

Joe Kannapell: Home Building Technology, Part IX The Great Connector

Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: Truss Cutting Transformed: Integrated, Automated, and Labor-Light

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: Pure Online Magic with Paragon, TDC Time Standards, and AppWright Job Management

Glenn Traylor: Do You Include BCMC in Your Training Investment?

Ed Lim – LimTek Solutions: Passive Lean Can Tame Lumber Chaos

MiTek Staff: MiTek to Showcase Innovative Solutions at BCMC 2025

Simpson Strong-Tie Staff: Where Innovation Meets Industry: Simpson Strong-Tie at BCMC

Alpine Staff: Simplify Floor Plan Review

Jamie Tait – Stiles Machinery: From On-Site Craftsmanship to OffSite Innovation: The Mindset Shift Transforming American Builders

ROGworx Team: Wall Panel Sheathing: How to Optimize Material and Labor

Marco Gagnon – Element Equipment: Get to Know Element Equipment at BCMC

Jeff Brown – Panels Plus: See What Panels Plus Has to Offer at BCMC

Kathryn Pedde –JAX, The Wood Retriever: Simplifying the Tough Tasks with JAX

Carl Villella – Acceptance Leasing: How New Signals From the Fed Will Affect the Component Industry

Maria Sanchez – Combilift: The Compact Multidirectional Forklift Redefining Material Handling

Thomas McAnally – TheJobLine: Designers are Stirring, But Employers Remain Cautious

Geordie Secord – Design Connections: Optimism, Pessimism, and Missed Opportunities in Our Industry

MiTek Staff: Repetitive Member Increase (Cr) and Additional Repetitive Increase

Simpson Strong-Tie Staff: Truss Design – Working with Obstructions

Joe Kannapell – The Last Word: Why Go to the BCMC Show?

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry S

New & Used Equipment

Saws

Truss Equipment Panel Equipment

Trucks & Trailers

Misc. Equipment

Door | Stair | Window Equipment

Safety First Calendar of Events

TheJobLine - Jobs & Candidates Industry News

Inside

Published Monthly

Publisher Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.org

Editor Anna L. Stamm 800-289-5627 x 3 anna@componentadvertiser.org

Distributed FREE Via e-mail subscription Download PDF or Read on line at www.componentadvertiser.com

News of Interest and Advertising inquiries can be submitted to: anna@componentadvertiser.org

An Open Forum for many sources.

Deadline 20th of each month. Articles, Trade Names, and Logos are the property of their respective owner or creator unless otherwise noted

Disclaimer: We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or material that we deem not in the interest of the industry or the Advertiser. Permission to use content is the responsibility of the contributor including permissions to use any likeness of persons.

The Advertiser is provided “As Is” including typographical errors, omissions, and mistakes both intentional and unintentional.

Believe it at your own risk!

2,54,58,134,172,173

Component Manufacturing Advertiser

The Advertiser 7586 Becks Grove Road Freetown, Indiana 47235 no reproduction in whole or in part without permission from the component manufacturing advertiser Archive Copies Available On Line www.componentadvertiser.com

Anna L. Stamm Director of Communications and Marketing Component Manufacturing Advertiser.

Advertiser Forum

Knowing the Rules

What never ceases to amaze me is how things can be completely obvious but still dependent on you knowing the “rules.” The problem is figuring out if you know the rules or if the rules have changed.

That was Then, This is Now

I remember very clearly, after my sister and I moved into our first house together, shopping at Menard’s for home improvement supplies. That regional big box store had many things for upgrading our 1950s bungalow for the 1990s. On one visit, we met a pro who clued us in on a plumbing tip – the fixtures may look the same, but generally a plumber has access to better faucets. Because I would be hiring all plumbing installation, I was glad to know that letting the plumber hook us up (pun intended) was a good route to take.

Fast forward to 2025 and a kitchen faucet in a 1990s house that would barely stop dripping. Deciding it was time to fix it, I contacted a plumber. When making the appointment, I asked if they would be able to fix a single-handle faucet and, if not, would they be able to help me get a replacement. Alas, it was only after the plumber disassembled my faucet, discovered it had a cartridge he had never seen, and had no idea where/when he would find a replacement that I heard the punch line – they don’t supply faucets, but they can get them from the store for you at a cost. I asked about the mark-up amount; he answered 3.5%. I thought that was pretty good, until I saw the estimate and discovered the mark-up was 350%. Now, without a working kitchen sink, I had to immediately jump online and order a faucet as in-store pick-up from a big box store, so I could get back onto their schedule! He had been afraid to touch the shut-off value under the sink (and did not have the correct replacement), but he did manage to cobble together the old faucet, which I coaxed from a steady stream to a fast trip, so at least I didn’t have to keep the water shut off to the whole house until the faucet was replaced the next day.

Working the Problem

Did I know the rules? According to the internet, it’s still reasonable to assume that plumbers have better plumbing supplies than big box stores, so perhaps that is still a rule in most locations. But here in Oklahoma, now I know that I will always shop before someone disassembles something I need! I’ll even look for a plumbing supply store instead of a big box, when it’s not a rush situation.

Monet DeSauw FWA 500 Floor Web Cutter

• Push Button Powered Blade Angulations

• Single Push Button Setting for 2 Blades per Side

• Electronic Digital Readouts

• Backup Mechanical Indicators

• Cuts 4 Angle Webs, Cantilever Webs (2 piece webs) & Square Blocks

• Magazine Lumber Feed for 3x2, 4x2 and 6x2 Lumber 12 1/2” to 48 1/2” Length Capacity (7” Minimum on Square Blocks)

• 60 Pieces per Minute

• (4) Internal 16” Blades & (1) External 16” Cut-Off Blade

• Pneumatic Blade Brake on External Blade

• Dust Hoods

• Belt Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Add $4,300 for 12’ Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Add $2,100 for Extra Set of Blades

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase FOBMO Call For Pricing

• Automated (Truss Design Software Download) or SemiAutomated (Touch Screen Entry) Operation

• All Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• 22” x 40 Tooth Blade on PAE Cut 1 or 2 Boards up to 20’ (2 Second Plunge Cut)

• Cut Chords, Webs, Rafters, Wedges & Stair Stringers

• Cut Long Scarfs by MultiPlunging

• Servo Positioning on Infeed, Angle & Outfeed Pusher

• Over Travel Protection

• Ink Jet Printer

• Lumber Optimization Program

• Belt Waste Conveyor

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase / 60 Amp

• Includes 5 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Optional Monet DeSauw Live Deck, Bunk Feeder & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor FOB MO Call For Pricing

• Touch Screen User Interface with Backup Mechanical Controls

• 3 Operating Modes: Auto, SemiAuto & Manual

• All 20 Axes of Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• Anti-Collision & Optimizing Programming

• Auto Calibration Productivity & Time Tracking

• Maintenance Diagnostics

• Variable Speed Conveyor (0-50 Flights per Minute)with Powered Hold Downs

• (1) 30” x 80 Tooth Blade (27 3/4” Scarf on PAE)

• (4) 16” x 40 Tooth Blades (13 1/2” Scarf on Centerline)

• Pneumatic Blade Brakes on all 5 Blades

• 16 1/2” to 20’ Length Capacity (11” Minimum on Square End Blocks)

• Vibrating Waste Conveyor Under Saw

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Includes 4 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Add $2,900 for Extra Set of Blades

• Optional Live Deck, Label Printer, Ink Jet Printer, Catcher Display & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor.

Monet DeSauw DeRobo Linear Saw

Monet DeSauw DeSawyer 2000 Automated Saw

EZ-SET AUTO JIGGING EXCLUSIVE & PATENTED DESIGN

Automatic Truss Jigging System to drastically reduce setup times. Allows for 100% embedment on the table, with top & bottom chord pucks in the same slot. TopSider or standard configurations available for conventional kick-leg, walk-thru, or our new trackless 8' and 10' continuous table systems. Systems for other roller & hydraulic gantries are coming soon. Available in new machine installations or for retro-fitting your existing table. The TopSider is exclusively applicable for “kick or flip leg” style truss presses such as the Tri-Axis & Lumbermater®

FEATURES / APPLICATIONS

• Capable of 100% On-Table Nail Plate Embedment

• Two Pucks Per Slot

• 24", 26", and/or 30" Spacing

• Compatible with all current major design software

• Multiple Simultaneous Layouts

Sub Component Nailer

By Joe Kannapell

Home Building Technology, Part IX The Great Connector

Cal Jureit’s truss testing experience was but the first of three consequential steps that led him to invent the modern truss connector plate. Jureit’s second step was joining Truss Fabrications, Inc. (TFI), which furthered his knowledge of truss manufacturing, and focused his efforts on discovering a better connector so that his new employer could “get into the truss rafter market” (as quoted from a speech to Central Florida Truss Fabricators in May 1978). At TFI in 1954, Jureit helped develop “one plate that employed slots cut in the lumber and hardened nails, but this proved uneconomical after quite a long and expensive trial period.” Although inserting steel plates in saw cuts and nailing them in place may seem impractical, it did not appear to be more difficult than the laborious task of installing split-ring connectors, which was the main source of business for TFI. Not surprisingly, TFI experienced financial difficulties, and Jureit instead began working on his own as a consulting engineer. Importantly, he took with him valuable fabrication experience, and even more awareness of the need for a better connector.

At the time of Jureit’s departure from TFI, he learned that Carol Sanford was marketing his Grip-Plate, and that Sanford’s fabricators were using hydraulic presses to embed that plate. Jureit also observed that a Sanford design for a 26-foot truss required more than 100 nails be hand-driven into the Grip-Plates on the top face of the truss, and that truss still had to be flipped over to be nailed on the opposite face. Even so, the Grip-Plate required less than half the nails used for a perforated nail-on plate, and Jureit noted that it was rapidly gaining in popularity.

Jureit’s third step took him temporarily away from the search for a better truss connector, but not entirely. To support his growing family, he found a good income opportunity in the practice of foundation engineering in the wetland areas into which Miami was expanding. In those areas, builders sought to avoid the expense of driving piles through the unsuitable wetland-like soils. Juriet addressed that need by adapting a much more cost-effective compacted fill process, and in so doing was able to gain a continuous stream of revenue from ongoing design work, jobsite inspections, and compaction testing that was required with that methodology. Most importantly though, he learned that he could eliminate costly interior support foundations by clear-spanning roof trusses. This gave him yet another reason to pursue a better connector.

With testing, design, fabrication, and jobsite experience, it is not surprising that Jureit came up with a better connector. It was surprising that he arrived at the idea in Church. But that fortuitous brain storm was just the beginning of what would be an all-out, breakneck pursuit to get his Gang-Nail plate marketed, while overcoming Sanford’s twoyear lead. And from that moment of discovery onward, Jureit was able to draw from a formative background that complemented his recent industry experience.

Jureit came from a creative family who built things, most notably wedding cakes. In his youth, he excelled in music and intended to become a commercial artist, attending a one-year college course at the prestigious Ringling School in Sarasota, FL. When World War II broke out, he worked for a short time in a tool and die shop. Perhaps, though, he revealed his career ambition in engineering by enlisting in the U.S. Naval Construction Battalion. After the War ended and he was discharged, he attended Georgia Tech, receiving his Civil Engineering degree in 1949. Unable to find work in south Florida, he moved to Toledo, OH to work for a civil engineering firm, where he received his professional certification. When work became available in Miami, he joined the engineering and testing firm of George Wingerter, P.E. Wingerter was on the advisory committee that developed the South Florida Building Code and he connected Jureit to local building officials for whom Jureit established a test procedure for trussed rafters. Wingerter also took Jureit to local and state meetings of professional engineering groups, providing a model for his later work organizing plate manufacturers.

Growing up in a family business and working for small companies gave Jureit an understanding of what it took to launch his own business. Likewise, his service in the military informed him of the organizational structure and leadership necessary to run a much larger entity. Jureit would need these business skills plus his specialized technical knowledge to gain success against an established incumbent, and then later the new entrant, the Ronel Corporation. But the time was right for that next major advancement in home building technology, not only in south Florida but in the entire country, and around the world.

Next Month: Plenty of Plates

INTRODUCING THE PICKFEEDER...

FLEXIBLE, AUTOMATED PICKING & DELIVERY SYSTEM

NEW INNOVATION

FOR TRADE STORES & FABRICATION PLANTS

Slowly gathering and organizing loose lumber manually is now a thing of the past. Stand-alone automated picking is here!

With a compact footprint and newly developed software, Vekta’s fully customizable PickFeeder system is built to fit your needs.

It intelligently scans, selects, and delivers lumber to the stack at lightning speed – eliminating downtime, fatigue, and costly errors.

You can even combine multiple PackFeeders into your PickFeeder system to increase volume or range of product.

Learn more at BCMC 2025 — Booth 811

Transforming Your Experience

When it comes to protecting profits and staying green lit for the work ahead, count on your trusted partner for what matters most.

MAXIMIZE OPERATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY

GAIN RELIABLE SOFTWARE ACCESS EXPERIENCE HIGH-TOUCH TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Visit our booth to experience what’s new and improved— including hands-on demos and insights—only at BCMC.

September 29 - October 3, 2025 | Omaha, NE

MII.COM/BCMC

Free MiTek training sessions on software, services, and other educational topics are available.

Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery

Truss Cutting Transformed: Integrated, Automated, and Labor-Light

In today’s truss plants, the cutting stage plays a more critical role than ever. What was once predominantly a repetitive, manual task has become a central driver of speed, accuracy, consistency, and efficiency across the entire operation.

As the industry grapples with skilled labor shortages, fluctuating material costs, and rising demand for faster build cycles, how we cut matters more than ever. Cutting isn’t just the first step, it’s the heartbeat of production. When cutting slows, everything behind it backs up. And when it runs smoothly, the whole truss plant benefits. Yet despite advances in automation and software, many fabricators still face disruptions, waste, and inefficiencies in the cutting stage as they haven’t yet adopted or integrated the latest innovations of truss cutting into their operation.

But truss cutting has evolved to meet today’s key challenges, and an ideal truss cutting solution, such as the combination of Spida’s PieceGiver + PieceMaker, can set the standard for performance, integration, and efficiency.

The Evolution: From Manual Cuts to Smart Systems

Truss cutting has shifted dramatically over the decades. Early fabrication relied heavily on skilled hands and radial arm saws – a slow, manual approach vulnerable to inconsistency and human error. Cutting was laborintensive and often the biggest constraint in production.

The arrival of automated saws marked a turning point. Fabricators could now achieve faster cuts with greater accuracy, easing reliance on specialized labor and improving throughput. But the real leap has come more recently. Advanced cutting solutions are driven by precision cutting, automated workflows, and integrated software and systems, providing intelligent truss component identification, optimization, and organization of lumber flow into assembly. The result is faster production, less waste, and a seamless flow from design to delivery. These smart solutions transform cutting into a connected, data-driven engine that powers the entire truss plant. In an industry under pressure to do more with less, these truss cutting solutions are essential to building efficiency, improving margins, and staying ahead of the curve.

Challenges in Truss Cutting Today

Although there has been great transformation in truss cutting, many manufacturers still find their cutting stage is the bottleneck in the workflow, holding back the rest of their truss plant. They continue to face persistent challenges that impact productivity, quality, and profitability.

We speak with fabricators regularly, and for those who still rely on manual processes, these are the top challenges we often hear from them:

1. Labor Shortages and Training Demands – Skilled operators are hard to find and harder to keep. Even when automation is available, steep learning curves and disruption to production can deter adoption.

2. Risks from Manual Saws and Manual Material Handling – Manual saws and lumber moved by hand adds time and introduces safety risks. It’s inefficient and exposes teams to preventable injuries.

3. Waste from Inefficiencies and Rework – Without automation and design file integration, cut accuracy depends on the operator. Cutting errors create waste, require rework, and eat into efficiencies and profit margins.

4. Difficulty with Technology Integration and Legacy Systems – Older saws often can’t connect with today’s advanced design software, forcing fabricators into inefficient manual fixes and fragmented workflows. The upfront costs of a fully integrated, automated truss cutting solution can limit the adoption by fabricators – but the ROI is real and tangible, and it is not a step too far to recognize the potential asset to both business and production.

5. Material and Quality Control Issues – Without optimization and automated processes, inconsistencies in lumber quality and a lack of quality control can cause compounding errors, more rework, and downstream assembly issues and delays.

These challenges are only some of the reasons why manufacturers may be continuing to work with their existing systems – manually staging materials, retraining operators, and patching together fixes for saws that are no longer suitable – rather than fully leveraging the potential of today’s technology.

What the Ideal Truss Cutting Solution Should Deliver

In today’s fast-moving truss plants, truss cutting solutions need to be smart, connected, and purpose-built for real-world production challenges, and they should work with your operation, not against it. When looking to introduce such a solution to your truss plant, you want it to:

• Keep Up with Assembly – It’s not just about speed. The system must have smart organization of cut pieces so they can be delivered to assembly in a logical, build-ready sequence, eliminating sorting bottlenecks.

• Reduce Labor Reliance with Smart Automation – We all know that finding skilled labor is challenging. A modern system should be easy to learn, simple to operate, require minimal manual handling, and automate repetitive tasks to reduce operator fatigue and training time.

• Deliver Accuracy, Each Time –Inconsistent cuts lead to rework, delays, and wasted material. Precision must be built into every cycle, to deliver consistent cut quality, day in and day out.

• Minimize Waste with Optimization – Material costs are volatile, and every inch of lumber matters. Intelligent software should ensure accuracy and prevent off-cuts and rework.

• Integrate Seamlessly with Your Design Software – Whatever design software you use at your truss plant, you want the cutting system to read and execute your job files directly – no re-entry, no translation, and no errors in between.

• Run Reliably, Shift After Shift – Downtime kills margins. Look for systems designed for durability, low maintenance, and built-in diagnostics or predictive maintenance features that keep operations flowing.

• Scale with Your Growth – You want the truss cutting solution to be responsive to your business needs and scale up easily without you losing efficiency.

At the end of the day, a truss cutting solution shouldn’t be the bottleneck. It should be a competitive advantage – one that keeps pace with your truss plant, reduces overhead, and positions you to take on more work with greater confidence.

The PieceGiver + PieceMaker = Our Ultimate Truss Cutting Solution

When it comes to truss cutting solutions, Spida has developed the power duo of the PieceGiver and PieceMaker! Together, they offer a fully integrated lumber loading and cutting system, working in harmony to deliver speed, precision, and automation to your production.

First up: The PieceGiver – a high-speed, fully automated lumber loading system that does the heavy lifting for you. It replaces the operator at the head of the saw by picking lumber from pre-assigned packs and loading it directly onto the infeed deck of the saw.

With powerful suction heads, it lifts two pieces of lumber per cycle. The traveling head scans the lumber, flips it if needed using the bow flipper, and delivers it straight to the saw.

The PieceGiver eliminates manual loading and keeps your line flowing.

Next up: The PieceMaker – an automated linear saw that cuts, prints, and optimizes truss components accurately with minimal waste. Cleverly designed, waste is neatly conveyed under the outfeed, with options available for front, rear, or side.

Its intelligent software is easy to learn, simple to use, and supports data from all major software suppliers. Optimize panel by panel or by job – it’s entirely up to you.

You’ll benefit from speed, versatility, and efficiency, with your cutting volumes being completed in less time than other saws.

The PieceMaker is a dependable manufacturing center and can cut your standard and custom miters, bird’s mouths, raking plates and studs, low angles, long cuts, large lumber sections, and all your normal standard cutting.

And the best part is that the PieceGiver plus the PieceMaker streamline production, boost efficiency, and reduce manual labor – all with just one operator.

With the power duo you’ll benefit from:

• Fast, accurate cutting –consistently

• Increased productivity without adding extra labor

• Ease of use – simple to learn and operate

• Optimization – you can look ahead panel-by-panel or job-by-job

• Versatility with it handling various lumber sizes and types of cuts

• Keeps your workflow moving!

To see the power duo in action, please watch our video.

Our solution addresses the common challenges and delivers what a truss cutting solution should! Plus, you’ll reap the benefits of partnering with Spida Machinery. With over 40 years in the industry, you can be assured of reliable machinery built for the tough environments they operate in, along with our expertise in factory layouts, installation, on-site training, and ongoing service and support.

Final Thoughts

The pressure to deliver more, faster, with less isn’t going away. Builders are demanding shorter lead times, material prices remain volatile, and labor continues to be hard to find and retain. To address these challenges, automation is no longer just a nice-to-have goal. Manufacturers who invest in the right truss cutting solutions aren’t just keeping up – they’re getting ahead.

Here at Spida, our power duo of the PieceGiver + the PieceMaker is more than just machinery. They’re an integrated solution designed to make your life easier, unlock capacity, and enable your truss plant to operate at its best.

If you’re still working around your saw, maybe it’s time to work with a saw that works for you. When you’re ready explore what this could look like in your operation, contact Spida Machinery to learn how our solutions can transform your cutting and your truss plant.

IntelliVIEW Suite Manage. Design. Build.

The industry’s most powerful integrated component design, engineering, and management software for steel and wood-framed structures.

iCommand

Manage projects, customers, materials, pricing & inventory

iModel Design truss layout & profiles

iDesign

Optimize material usage & engineer trusses

iPanel

Design wall layouts, panelize, bundle, break & stack

eShop

Maximize crew productivity & improve manufacturing efficiency

The IntelliVIEW Suite is a fully integrated software solution for the layout and design of a building’s rough framing elements—including roof and floor trusses, wall panels, solid sawn, EWP, sheathing and various ancillaries.

The IntelliVIEW Suite provides the industry’s most complete analysis of the design, cost information and bill of materials—promoting increased profits by reducing plate and lumber use.

Ask those who know. They’ll tell you about the people at Alpine who make a difference.

Pure Online Magic with Paragon, TDC Time Standards, and AppWright Job Management

If you want to give your company a new competitive edge while reducing costs and improving profitability, then you’ll want to hear what TDC has connected using Paragon and AppWright. Coming this October at BCMC, find out how your company can reduce costs, improve your manufacturing scheduling and pricing using manhours, and manage every area, not just wood component manufacturing, with the power of web-based applications working seamlessly.

Paragon provides web-based wood truss solutions and gives component manufacturers (CMs) the freedom to run their plant their way. With open integrations and flexible plate options, their cloud-based truss software makes it easy to connect systems, streamline workflows, and optimize control of your business. With Paragon, you can reduce your total costs and save tens, if not hundreds of thousands. You can see for yourself with Paragon’s plate cost calculator.

Truss Design — Every CM needs a way to quickly and efficiently design and analyze wood trusses. Paragon Design is the first cloud-based truss software that allows you to use any plate for any design for any shop. No site setup, no installs, and no remote desktop are needed. This allows you to experience independence with independent truss software.

Truss Layout — Paragon Layout is a paid feature for Paragon Design that enables 3D layouts and truss designs, ensuring precision and efficiency in your roof and floor systems. You can create, visualize, and optimize truss placements, streamline the construction process, facilitate collaboration with a link, and enhance overall project accuracy with its intuitive and powerful layout planning tool.

TDC Time Standards — I have written many articles over the years about time standards using man-hours, and these quotes from a company using them daily in their CM operations reinforce the benefits of this approach.

Todd Drummond

Per Keith Myers of Woodhaven Lumber & Millwork, Lakewood, NJ, “BF seems to be the national standard for truss manufacturers mainly because that’s what the software has typically reported. Additionally, lumber yards always deal with BF. The truth is, we pay labor dollars for time, not pieces, nor BF. Whether I have a 2x10 or a 2x4 wedge, it takes the same amount of time to pick it up and install it into a truss. When attempting to build a pricing model within a costing program, one needs lumber, plates, and labor. Labor is a measure of time, which is paid in dollars. Those dollars can be calculated easily with the proper data. It takes more time to build a 32-foot attic truss than a 32-foot fink, and the costing model should reflect that fact.”

I asked Keith, “Are you using the time standards for man-hours that I provided you during the consultation and, if so, how have they worked out for you compared to BF?” Keith replied, “Your time standards are perfect. They are far more accurate than BF. We are much more comfortable with the man-hours for the estimation of labor for both the pricing and shop scheduling. BF is just too unreliable for our needs. No more educated guessing for our costing and pricing.”

My articles on understanding the power of using man-hours include these:

• Change Your Pricing Formula to Make More Net Profit

• Better Than 10% Labor Savings Proven Method Endorsement by Scott Arquilla

• Is Scheduling a Problem Within Your Company?

TDC has developed proper time standards (work minutes, R.E., S.U., man-minutes) using proper industrial engineering motion and time studies practices for over twenty years. This process is not easy, requires a great deal of time, and constantly needs updating. I can tell you emphatically that board foot units and piece count do not work as an alternative to properly developed work minutes for wood roof truss manufacturing.

In addition to your mindset, you also need the tools. Too often, companies are too focused on specific software their vendors provide, like golden handcuffs, that keep them locked into their particular services. However, this often comes at the price of being too specialized for the CM’s operations. Instead, AppWright allows any project, whether a quote or order, to be properly communicated and managed in every department and area. Also, AppWright can share any data with your accounting software. This cloud-based project management communication software is used daily by some of North America’s largest LBMs, CMs, and home builders.

AppWright is proven to reduce overall project processing errors, time, and cost. But don’t take my word for it; to understand what AppWright can do for your company, read what Ed DeBiasio, President/Owner of United Lumber, has to say about what AppWright has done for their company. “Component sales are just one aspect of United Lumber, but a significant profit center and sales enhancer. As we grew, we started seeing a problem, which was how do we grow our business without increasing our operating cost? Doing the same things by adding more people was increasingly becoming a problem. The sales teams of the different lumberyards were fighting over the limited resources of our component manufacturing. The AppWright app is a web-based communication software that is capable of scheduling, files storage, email, task tracking, automated reminders and much more. In essence, once we actually started fully embracing and using it, it became a labor-saving, time enhancer and something that every salesperson would only let go if you pried from their dead hands. What a difference it has made!”

To read more about AppWright, see my article on Maintaining Successful Project Management Communications

If your CM operation is ready to explore how your company can save tens of thousands in plate cost and productivity, then it is time to explore what Paragon and AppWright can do for your group.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7

There is no better value than TDC for getting the best ROI for professional consulting services. TDC is your best source for learning about proven and practical lean manufacturing best practices combined with industrial engineering principles to keep your company at the leading edge of competitiveness. Cost savings and net profit gains that usually take months or years can be accomplished in weeks or months with TDC. No one is better at providing your team with proven results for good employee practices, pricing, truss labor estimation, and so many other bestin-class practices. All areas are addressed, not just manufacturing. Please do not take my word about TDC’s services, though. Read the public testimonials from many current and past clients with decades of expertise and experience.

Website: www.todd-drummond.com • Phone (USA): 603-748-1051

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

Why do so many manufacturers rely on West Fraser for mechanically graded lumber? With over 30 North American mills, 14 of which produce MSR, we run a highly dependable supply chain in both SYP and SPF.

Our ability to identify higher grade lumber imparts predictable strength and consistency to high-performing trusses and other products. Why not let our high production standards support yours?

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

Up-Cut Saw with 16' TigerStop

• 10 HP (480 Volt/3 Phase) Lauderdale Hamilton Up-Cut Saw with 24” Blade

• 6” x 13 1/2” Capacity

• Foot Pedal Operation

• Dust Outlet

• TigerStop 16’ Programmable Stop

• Automatic Positioning of Stop via Simple and Intuitive Controls

• Infeed/Outfeed Plastic Top Tables with stands

• Excludes: Dust Collector and Adjacent Computer in Orange Cabinet

$13,500 FOB NE Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

and

with [1]

inch

and [4] 20 inch blades. Cuts dimensional lumber from 2×4 through 2×12. Includes Windows 7 Pro operating system, PC controls, all available spare blades and shaker side-pans. 460 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical required. As-is, Where-is $29,997 NOW $26,997 FOB MB Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

Complete Alpine Line With Reconditioned Machinery, WizardPDS® Automation, & Material Handling Upgrades

Table Automation & Upgrades

New-Legacy Gantries & Operator Platforms Parts, Supplies, & Support

Building Success With Trusted Solutions

Unlock your line’s potential with affordable, cutting-edge solutions to keep your truss production running smoothly. From New-Legacy Gantries to WizardPDS® Retrofits, we specialize in complete line upgrades & expansions with custom material handling configurations. Reinvent your operations with our specialty support, three generations of expertise, and 98 years of trusted service in the Wood Product and Fabrication Industries. Eide Machinery: where productivity meets affordability. Let’s build your success together!

A legacy of excellence in equipment and support.

Inspired by ten years of intensive field experience and the ample and detailed feedback of numerous customers, we’re pleased to introduce the most advanced, most enhanced and high-performance Terminailer yet - Terminailer V.8. Drawing on invaluable time in the trenches closely evaluating Terminailer’s performance under varying conditions, our engineers have incorporated critical learning and insight to enhance simplicity, performance and operator control. Just part of what V.8 offers includes:

•Vastly enhanced operator control for even greater productivity

•A redesigned nail-feed supplying EverWin PN90-PAL industrial nail guns

•Simplified pneumatics featuring direct air-supply to all six nail guns

•Even more sub-component profiles for wall design flexibility

•Rugged durability with pharmaceutical grade assembly

Developed by people who know well the mechanics, safety considerations and business aspects of wall panel production, Terminailer V.8 combines more enhancements & operator-friendly features than ever to take your productivity to the next level and beyond. Contact us to learn even more and to put the V.8 performance in motion at your facility.

The truss industry relies on 3rd party quality assurance services to provide random visits to review the plants Quality Assurance program along with their operations. If your plant needs to comply with the IRC, IBC and to those who depend on solid, experienced QA expertise, we ask you to consider selecting Timber Products Inspection, Inc. (TP) as your choice for 3rd party inspections.

Proudly serving the forest products industry for over 50 years, TP brings the expertise you need to ensure your business is successful. As a responsible partner, TP delivers to clients, employees, and the industries we serve the confidence to drive value through the effective use of our diverse professional team.

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry! • Al Coffman

Jean Hart

Curt Holler

Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor

Elliot Wilson

If you have questions about how you can make this selection, please contact your authorized agent above or Glenn Traylor at 919-280-5905 or trusguy@gmail.com. https://www.tpinspection.com/ https://www.tpinspection.com/auditing-services/truss

By Glenn Traylor

Do You Include BCMC in Your Training Investment?

How much time should you invest in learning about your business, and what are the best methods for training? You may not realize it, but our annual industry tradeshow is one of the best places to combine multiple objectives including valuable learning opportunities.

Each year, component manufacturers assemble to exchange specialized knowledge and insights relevant to the truss industry. Few other events offer such a comprehensive and cost-effective platform for engaging in every sector of the field. Equipment manufacturers demonstrate their machinery, software providers showcase advanced technology, lumber producers present their materials, and connector companies actively seek to engage attendees. Numerous opportunities for professional networking are available to those interested in expanding their expertise.

As stated on the BCMC website, “The Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) is the trusted tradeshow for structural building component manufacturers to learn about the latest trends, cutting-edge technologies, and ideas that are transforming their industry. This annual tradeshow includes a dynamic exhibit floor with live machinery demonstrations, multiple peer-led educational opportunities, and the chance to network and enjoy the camaraderie of an industry that spans generations.”

Back by Popular Demand

One of the best opportunities to show your skills in the industry is the Timber Products Inspection booth. The purpose of the exhibit is to test your knowledge related to ANSI/ TPI 1 Chapter 3, the industry standard. Timber Products Inspection will have their highly beneficial challenge truss where you and your employees can measure their knowledge of manufacturing requirements. Special prizes will be awarded for the best inspections.

Please consider joining us in Omaha, NE at BCMC, being held from September 29 to October 3, and allocate time in your schedule to participate in the ANSI/TPI 1 Chapter 3 challenge being held during show floor hours on Wednesday and Thursday. At the show, subject matter experts will be available to address your questions and share their comprehensive expertise with you and your team. See you at Booth 1310!

The Ultimate

TRUSS JIGGING TABLES

Upgrade your truss-building workflow with our precision engineered jigging tables – the industry standard for quality and efficiency. Built to accommodate all truss jig parts and accessories, our tables ensure a flawless fit, every time.

We combine unmatched craftsmanship with competitive prices to deliver the best value for your business. Choose us – trusted by truss builders nationwide! info@trussbuilderparts.com 2810

After Restoration We offer Machinery Services Precision. Eﬃciency. Aﬀordability..

Hain Systems Framer

TInches

Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4 Aluminum Extrusion

he Hain Systems Framer (HSF) will help you build square and accurate wall panels for residential or commercial construction applications. It will help you cut building costs by saving time and improving your quality. It’s a reliable, efficient and proven system that features a ruggedly simple design. The HSF is based on a proven design with over 20 years of actual production use and maintenance experience. It comes fully assembled and is designed for portable job site framing or in-plant permanent installation. The table has many optional attachments and will support Mylar Tape wall layout or any other type of layout. The optional gun rails can also be retro-fit to any table.

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

Details:

Internal Components: Hardened, Ground and Polished Steel and Billet Aluminum

Table Construction: Thick-wall Structural Steel Tubing, Jig Welded for Accuracy

Dimensions: Length: 5 feet (60”) to 60 feet (720”)

Height: 12 inches

Air Supply: 90 psi (10 CFM Air Flow Recommended)

Depth: 12 inches

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Powder Coat: Industrial Gray

Dimensions: Height: 43”

Length: 16’ or 20’

Width: Adjustable 8’ to 10’ or 8’ to 12’

Shipping Weight: 3000 lbs

If you are looking for the fastest, most consistent way to measure and cut your product, then the Hain Measuring System (MEA) is your answer. The MEA changes from one length t any length instantly, up to 60’, without changing the operator’s position on the line. It is also highly accurate (+/- .010) and quickly moves from one length to the next in seconds. The MEA is designed for quick and easy setup and is simple to use. Even a first time user will be productive with little or no training required. It can adapt to any saw and can be mounted to any surface so that you can integrate the MEA with your existing setup. The MEA is versatile allowing “left” or “right” handed operation and measurement in “feet and inches” or “inches” depending on your preference. The MEA is also available in a “Skid Mounted” version.

Building on Better

2004 Alpine Speed Cut Express

• Alpine Metra-Cut Saw

• 5 HP Motor with 16" Blade

• Saw Barrier Guard

• Speed Cut Express Automation with Touch Screen Computer

• Automated Stop and Automated Saw Angulation as directed by Truss Design Software

• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

• ____ Volt / 3 Phase

2 Available at $10,900 Each or Both for $20,000 Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2023 Northfield Model 410 Upcut Saw NEW 2023 Northfield model 410 upcut saw available for immediate shipment. 90/90 degree cuts to 4″ x 10″ capacity (fence forward position) to 2″ x 14″ (fence rearward position). Saw is configured for material from left to right, with 3″ x 6″ air operated cylinder, filter, regulator, lubricator, 10 HP motor, enclosed steel base with cast iron table, magnetic starter and adjustable operating speed from 20 to 60 CPM. Includes optional two-palm controls, additional 4″ dust outlet, NEMA 12 electrics with fused disconnect and two 18″ diameter 60 tooth blades with 1″ diameter bore. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$18,630 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Whirlwind Model 1000 Cut-Off Saw

• 5 HP Motor with 14" Blade

• 2 3/16" x 8 1/4" Capacity

• Pneumatic Blade Guard/Lumber Clamp

• Foot Pedal Control

• Dust Collection Outlet

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

• 1 Left Hand & 1 Right Hand Model

Available

$3,500 NOW $2,250 Each FOB NC Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

1982 SpeedCut MetraCut Centerline Saw

GOOSENECK ROLL OFF TRUSS TRAILERS

26’, 32’ & 36’ sizes available, Split Rollers available too! 2 YEAR

1982 Speed Cut Metra Cut, model SSA-11, centerline saw, 16″ blade, maximum cutting depth of 6″, maximum cut length of 31″, 164 deg. cutting range and 5 HP motor. Includes push-button on/off controls and analog angle measure on turntable with air stop, 20′ long infeed conveyor with OEM SpeedMeasure, 20′ long outfeed conveyor and one (1) spare blade. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required (can be converted to 240v/440v).

$6,990 FOB WY Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

New Monet DeRobo Linear Saw

New, DeRobo linear saw by Monet organizes "fill" boards to increase optimization of each board, can produce unlimited scarf cuts, cuts 1 or 2 boards at a time and cuts webs, chords, wedges, rafters and open-stair stringers. Works with all major connector plate manufacturer's software. Features include 22 inch blade, left-to-right feed direction standard, lumber push and pull grippers for more accuracy, ink marking on the 1 1/2" face of the incoming boards and small piece capture and delivery to the front of the saw for easy access. Infeed deck and bunk feed are shown as options only. 480 volt, 3phase.

$245,000 FOB MO.

(Shown with Additional Top Roller option)

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. LimTek Solutions Inc.

Passive Lean Can Tame Lumber Chaos

On a recent sailing expedition, I could not help but marvel at how a floating breakwater is a passive lean solution used to tame chaotic waves similar to how the Enventek Lumber PickLine tames the chaos in material handling. Both solutions are strategically designed to be simple, cost effective, low energy, and low maintenance solutions with continuous operation requiring minimal labor input. See my January 2025 article, “The Art of a Lumber PickLine,” for insight on how to implement a PickLine or better yet, if in Omaha attending BCMC, please visit us in the Enventek booth #825 and bring your plant and yard layout.

The Enventek Lumber PickLine reduces the reliance on forklifts, resulting in ongoing and significant operating cost savings. The use of lumber pickers is more cost effective than having to staff full-time certified forklift operators to feed automated saws. Lumber is organized by separating dense lumber storage from picking lumber on the PickLine. Doing this actually optimizes yard space as can be seen in the picture and enables even denser lumber storage all the while utilizing existing truck lanes. Stocking lumber bunks on both sides of the PickLine chain trough creates what I call a “Giant Kanban” system without the cards. If the picker has not flagged the forklift operator to replenish certain bunks, the forklift operator can see from afar what is running low and what may need replenishing in between other duties like loading and unloading trucks. See my April 2025 “Giant Kanban!” article for more on this.

Reducing forklift motion will not only reduce maintenance costs, but it will also improve yard safety by eliminating chaotic forklift travel and traffic congestion. It’s an even better benefit for the night shift crew. A continuous flow of lumber to automated saws is achieved by use of a simple chain-driven lumber trough to bring lumber anywhere along the PickLine up to the level of the automated saw’s existing auto-feed deck. Eliminating saw idle time alone will increase cut piece output by 30%. A PickLine will check the pickers piece counting, piece length accuracy, and piece width accuracy. A picker trained on QC procedures will also be culling lumber and pre-crowning lumber which will speed up all downstream processes with better quality lumber at the saws and at the tables. Lumber QC should be at the picking stage and not at the saw and definitely not at the tables! (See also “To Cull or Not to Cull (at the Saw)” from September 2024.)

What’s wrong or right about the next two pictures? Well, they are actually both correct. However, in truss plants without a PickLine, you would never attempt to pick lumber for cutting by truss to a component saw let alone to a linear saw. This kind of pick will be nearly impossible due to the inefficiency of forklift picking. But, with a lumber PickLine, all automated saws will be able to cut lumber to optimize truss building, and they will not feed lumber simply to optimize sawing output. Batch cutting on a component saw will slow down the truss builders, and lumber optimizing / lumber stretching on a linear saw creates chaos of cut pieces for the truss builders. (See “Batch Cutting vs. Cut by Truss” from March 2024.)

Cut by truss takes longer to cut on a component saw because each piece is a unique saw setup. However, by cutting by truss, all the pieces for each unique truss are stacked behind the saw together for each truss, and that will speed up the truss builders and also reduce the setup time between trusses hunting for pieces. If the “batch” is cut on a linear saw optimizing / stretching all the pieces from a bunk of 14 ft 2x4 lumber (as an example), the sawyer or the truss builders will have to try to figure out how to descramble the lumber optimizing / stretching either behind the saw or in front of the tables. Cut by truss at the saw organizes the lumber in front of the truss build tables efficiently. The next picture shows a series of single trusses that truss builders would prefer to have staged as cut by truss.

Cut by truss will slow down even an auto-feeding RetroC component saw, however, in the ebb and flow of truss production, it does not take long for the RetroC to catch up and fill up the shop with lumber. The best of both cutting-scheme worlds can be had with a PickLine feeding any type of automated saw. Shown is the RetroC’s signature, “This is what 18 pieces a minute looks like.”

A small- to medium-sized truss plant could easily rely on the combination of a component saw right beside a linear saw to produce enough cut material to feed 4 to 6 automated truss setups. Both saws would be fed from the same bunks of lumber (one trough per saw), but more importantly for lean manufacturing both saws can cut by truss or batch cut accordingly. The typical production mix would have the RetroC cutting 80 to 90 percent of all production backed up with a linear saw processing 10 to 20 percent of the cut pieces. Shown in these two pictures are a DeRobo linear saw in the foreground and a RetroC component saw in the background, both fed lumber from a Double Lumber PickLine.

Are you ready to hear more about how this passive lean system can help you tame lumber chaos? If so, please come see me at BCMC in the Enventek booth. I’ll fill you in on how we can help improve your operations and your bottom line with proven process automation that can work with any equipment in any location. And, we can discuss sailing too if you’d like. There are countless sources of inspiration on how to Feed the Beast!

https://limteksolutions.com/#solutions

A dverti $ er

2003 Alpine AutoMill RS Component Saw, Model 344

Computer controlled saw sets up in 2 to 19 seconds and downloads from a network or by using a touch screen for ease of operation. Five-head automated component saw works in both automated (downloading files) and semi-automated control via touchscreen input. It has [23] axes of automated movement, enhanced diagnostics, auto management reporting. The RS cuts from 13″ to 20′ long material in size ranging from 2×3″ through 2×12″, includes [3] 18″, [1] 22″ and [1] 32″ blades with air brakes, shaker pan waste conveyor to incline scrap conveyor, one set of spare blades and any available spare parts. (Infeed conveyor needs electrical service). 480v/60Hz/3Ph power.

$17,997 NOW $12,497 FOB AZ

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Striebig Optisaw, model Optisaw Automatic (Type # 5164) vertical panel saw station, with angled frame supporting material being cut: Max. cutting height (vertical) 5′-4″, max. cutting length (horizontal) 15′-1″, max. cutting thickness 2.36″. Both vertical and horizontal analog measuring scales on frame. Cutting head manually rotates from vertically to horizontally for rip vs. cross-cutting, adjustable spacers for repetitive cuts, 5.25 HP saw motor, 9.84″ diameter blade, guide bearings for travel , push button controls, e-stop button and dust extraction hose (no vacuum included). Overall footprint of station 19′-1″ wide x 4′7″ deep x 7′-10″ height. Sold for $36,000 new. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$14,490 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2000 Alpine AutoMill Component Saw 2000 Alpine AutoMill model 343H, (5) blade component saw, cuts lumber from 2×3 through 2×12, from 18″ to 20′, 4-angle floor webs from 18″. Includes powered length and angulation, digital readouts, (1) 32″, (3) 18″ & (1) 20″ blade, shaker under-saw scrap conveyor, incline, PC with Windows 98 o/s, and outfeed conveyor. Decommissioned in 2018. Stored indoors. 480 volt ,3 phase electrical required.

$10,497 FOB ON Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Alpine AutoMill RS Parts Alpine AutoMill RS Parts per Uploaded PDF

$23,500 NOW $19,500 FOB GA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

NEW Hain 20' Powered Measuring System

Adapts to Any Saw. Left or Right Hand Operation. Feet & Inches System (Stops at 12” Centers) or Inches System (Stops at 10” Centers). Motor: 1/4 HP Linear Actuator (110 Volt). Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4” Aluminum Extrusion. Stops: Jig Bored Steel. Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum. Optional Lengths from 5’ to 60’. Optional Gang Stop. Add $890 per 10’ Section of Heavy Duty Roller Conveyor with Stands

$8,990

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

BCE-MASTER

NEW!

Terminailer

Price: $237,900

FOB: ND

The Terminailer all but shatters the stereotypical myth that sub-component equipment is essentially peripheral – unimportant. And it does so by quickly and accurately driving far more framing nails in your wall panel jobs than ever before. Whether in your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality, which reduces labor costs and other aspects of overhead.

The new Terminailer V.8 improves on the previous generation Terminailer in several key ways:

All new HMI/Software

• Siemens Pivoting HMI Touchscreen display to operate from either side

• On-screen tutorial for all menu items

• Operator now controls functions such as process speed, nail spacing, nail patterns, etc.

• Simplified input commands

Nail Feed Complete Redesign

• All new frame to allow for redesigned nail coil placement with direct feed path

• EverWin PN90-PAL industrial tools now standard equipment

• New nail guides with spring-loaded tensioners

• Nail coils move with vertical travel of the nail guns

Reengineered air system

• SMC “Soft–Start” Pneumatics

• Simplified air for control to all components: lift–cylinders, triggers, stop–gate, etc.

• Direct air supply to each nail gun for improved nailing performance

• All pneumatic elements are clearly labeled for EZ service and adjustment

Overall Features

• Pharmaceutical grade assembly, industrial grade durability

• “Block–wheel” redesign for 3X increased applied force

• Approximately 1,200# of applied clamping force resulting in straighter finished

• Subcomponents from even the poorest lumber

• Larger doors for easier access to interior elements including coil–nail spools

Terminailer is an event-driven, sub-component assembler that will quickly and accurately drive 30% to 70% of the framing nails in any wall panel job. In your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality. The Terminailer functions independent of design software, requires zero set-up time when switching between any configuration, and requires no special operator training.

The Terminailer is easy to move around the shop so its location can evolve as your shop evolves. With all of the nailing occurring in the closed main chamber, nail injuries and nail location misfires are eliminated, making your plant that much safer.

With nearly ten years of development from people that know machinery, it is assembled to exacting standards, well supported, and it is easily maintained with shelf-item parts. Terminailer: vetted, tested, and ready to drive maximum productivity for you. Be sure to check out our videos below for a quick review of this revolutionary machine!

208 volt, 3-phase, 21 (full load) Amps, 60 Hz electrical required. 50 SCFM @ 100 PSI air required. Net weight 7,000 lbs..

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

Hundegger leads the way in automation innovation for the truss component industry. Our advanced CAMBIUM software offers cutting-edge automation and digitalization solutions, revolutionizing operations, boosting productivity, and driving sustainable growth for manufacturers like you.

We go beyond standard mechanization; we champion true Automation. The Hundegger TD-II isn't just a saw-it's a transformative, comprehensive solution designed to streamline your production process. From retrieving lumber to optimizing, nesting, stacking, destacking, sorting, buffering, and precise delivery, our system ensures peak efficiency and productivity, tailored specifically to truss component manufacturing.

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Harness the power of data with Hundegger's advanced CAMBIUM TACTICAL software. It meticulously tracks and optimizes your production, ensuring more automated operations and significant productivity gains.

We provide state-of-the-art automation and control solutions that set the industry standard. Our focus on industrial automation and robotics positions Hundegger as the leader in enhancing performance and efficiency in truss component manufacturing and beyond.

Hundegger products are essential for future-proofing your business. Elevate your productivity and secure your competitive edge with our advanced technologies and automation solutions, meticulously designed to meet the unique demands of component manufacturers today and tomorrow.

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive.

2018 Spida Plate Marker with DeWalt Saw

• 20' of Steel Framed Table with Plastic Top

• Spida Automated 20' Length Stop/ Plate Positioner

• Auto Plate Positioning with Manual Marking

• Control Cabinet Enclosure with Touch Screen Computer

• DeWalt Model DWS780 Miter Saw

• Support Table for DeWalt Saw

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor

• Excludes Dust Collector & Spida Annual Support Fee

$19,900 FOB ND

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

1994 Timbermill Model MH5G-20

Component Saw

Five blades cut lumber from 2″ x 4″ through 2″ x 12″, 4″ x 2″ lengths from 12 inches to 20 feet, including four-angle floor webs from 18 inches. All powered movements. Saw includes (1) 30″, (2) 20″ and (2) 14″ blades, analog scales, chain-drag scrap conveyor with chain-drag scrap incline, and an extra set of blades. Additionally this saw includes an extensive spare parts inventory including: Contacts/Starters, fuses, push buttons, limit switches, crank handles, scales/rulers/dials, angulation, conveyor, and saw motors, universal joints, and arms for outfeeds. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$17-924 FOB NC

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

• Servo Controlled Single Blade Linear Saw

• 7.5 HP Motor (230 Volt/3 Phase) with 20" Blade

• Touch Screen Computer

• Ink Jet Printer

• Powered Infeed Roller Tables & Outfeed Queue System

• (2) Manual Bunk Feeders (saw can be used with or without bunk feeders)

• Waste Conveyor (includes new belt which needs to be installed)

• 240 Volt / 3 Phase

• Motion Control Upgrade in 2018

• New Computer with Touch Screen in 2019

$72,500 FOB WA

• T1 Axis Rod and Pillow Bearings replaced in 2023

• (4) T1 Linear Bearings replaced in 2023

• (4) Z1 Linear Bearing replaced in 2023

• (8) Be lt Drive Linear Bearings replaced in 2023

• Several Belt Drive Wheels replaced in 2023

• New Z1 Actuator in 2023

• Spare Parts: 2 White Drive Belts, Spare Power Cable, Rebuilt Z1 Actuator

• Video available upon request

• Automated Truss Length and Angle Cutting as directed by Truss Design Software Output

• Di rect Drive 7.5 HP Motor with Automated 160 Degree Angulation & 18" Blade

• Minumum Angle of 10 Degrees with 36" Stroke for Long Scarf Cuts

• Braked Saw Motor , Safe Grip, Variable Stroke Limiter & Plexiglass Shield for Operator Safety

• 20' of Steel Framed/MDF Table with Automated 20' Length Stop & 10'

Gravity Conveyor

• Workstation, Control Cabinet Enclosure & 21" Touch Screen

Integration

• Kufo Dust Collector

• Spare Parts

• Truss Cutting Operating Software

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Lighty Used

• Excludes: Installation/Training & Annual Technical Support Fee

Cuts wall and truss parts from lumber depths 2×4 through 2×12, 60”+ scarf cuts, internally optimizes material (up to 11 7/8″ x 1.5″ EWP) Includes 20 foot OEM auto-infeed conveyor and 15 foot OEM outfeed conveyor, and under-saw scrap conveyor with belt-type incline. All servo controlled functions, Microsoft Windows XP OS, 7.5 hp motor with 20” carbide tipped blade. Includes spare infeed/outfeed belt and any available spare parts. No printer is included. The door latch needs to be repaired. 220v / 3 ph power, 125 PSI air required.

MiTek to Showcase Innovative Solutions at BCMC 2025

By MiTek Staff

Get ready to see our integrated solutions at the upcoming Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) 2025 in Omaha, NE. Our booth will feature industry-leading software, automated production equipment, engineered systems and products, and service capabilities that empower component manufacturers (CMs) to scale their operations and profitability in an evolving market.

Scaling Success Through Innovation and Partnership

MiTek solutions give CMs the efficiency to rise above labor and market challenges, so they’re always ready to meet demand head-on. Let’s lay the foundation to scale your success. The event will highlight these offerings.

We’re showcasing two new, exciting offerings this year, supporting a CM’s ability to keep production running:

MiTek® Guardian™: MiTek is proud to introduce MiTek Guardian—a preventative maintenance field service program designed to support maintenance teams and enhance equipment reliability. Discover how our field service technicians help reduce downtime and keep operations running smoothly by registering for the training session on October 1.

MiTek® Cloud™: Discover how the MiTek CM software suite can be seamlessly accessed on MiTek Cloud—now, built on Microsoft Azure. Attend a training session to learn about the key capabilities and new features that support users’ ability to reliably access MiTek software.

MiTek® Structure™ with Integrated Truss Design: The benefits of transitioning to the latest MiTek design software will be a focal point. We’ll discuss how this integration increases functionality and performance, streamlines workflows, enhances collaboration, and results in more efficient design processes.

MiTek® Production™: We’ll inform how this advanced truss and wall production software seamlessly integrates with production to help CMs accurately manage production in their operation.

MiTek® Management™: This highly customizable software will be another focus, demonstrating how a single system can provide suite-wide reporting, process management, a material system, and a real-time dashboard.

MiTek® Truss Validator™: Attendees at BCMC can experience the MiTek Truss Validator during interactive demonstrations, which allow users to see the tool’s capabilities in action and showcase how it enables engineers and architects to confidently validate the feasibility of floor trusses in their designs.

Automation in Action: MiTek machinery will showcase the massive potential for increased plant efficiency and reduced labor dependency through reliable cutting, material handling, and assembling equipment—all powered by MiTek software:

MatchPoint® DirectDrive™ System will be highlighted to showcase its customizable coordinated operation of multiple MiTek machines for unparalleled efficiency and speed.

Hornet II™ Saw will demonstrate precision cutting and labeling with software-driven optimizations that reduce waste and enhance productivity, in addition to a recent Siemens integration that supports a more robust machine and improved user experience.

RailRider Pro® will show efficiency in floor truss assembly, ensuring a full plate embedment each pass.

RoofTracker III™ will demonstrate a high-volume roof truss roller gantry that presses the top and bottom plates in a single pass.

Training Sessions: Comprehensive training sessions will be conducted for the CM software suite, including MiTek Production, MiTek Management, MiTek Structure with Integrated Truss Design, and the new MiTek Cloud. These sessions will guide users through the functionalities and optimizations that these platforms offer, as well as how they seamlessly integrate. Training will be available for additional topics, including MiTek Services. Space is limited, and attendees are invited to pre-register for sessions at mii.com/bcmc/training.

Connect with MiTek at BCMC 2025

Don’t miss the opportunity to see innovation in action. Visit MiTek in booth #1911 at BCMC 2025 for a firsthand look at how the company’s solutions are driving the future of the building components industry. Sign up for additional information or register for our free training sessions at the show by visiting mii. com/bcmc.

2012 Vista "Angle Boss" Saw with 20' TigerStop

• 2012 Vista Model M-20 AutoSet Cut-Off Saw

• 0 to 75 Degree Left & Right Blade Rotation

• 10 HP/460 Volt Motor with 20" Blade

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor & 20' Outfeed Roller Conveyor

• 2012 TigerStop (250" Cut Length)

• TigerStop Software Version 5.30

• Excludes Dust Collector

• Video available upon request

• Price in US Dollars

$18,880 FOB MB Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Safety Speed Manufacturing Model 7400 XL Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing, model 7400 XL*, vertical panel saw, 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2 1/8" maximum thickness, accuracy within 0.005 inches, 13 foot long welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. Dust collection ready. Options available include digital readouts for vertical cuts, automated length measuring, laser guide, stop bar, vacuum and midway fence. 208-230/460 volt, 3 phase electrical (208-230 single phase, 2 HP power optional +$100.00).

$14,499 Base, FOB MN. Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

Stretch Roll-Off Trailers • Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press

Safety Speed Cut Model 7000 Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing model 7000, vertical panel saw, 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2 inch maximum thickness, accuracy within 1/64th of an inch, 10 foot welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. Dust collection ready. Options available include lower frame extensions, digital readouts, laser guide, stop bar, vacuum and midway fence. 208-230/460 volt, 3 phase electrical (208-230 single phase, 2 HP power optional +$100.00). $10,199 Base, FOB MN.

Together the PieceGiver and PieceMaker streamline production, boost efficiency and reduce manual labor – all with just ONE operator.

Is truss cutting your bottleneck? Get in touch to learn how the power duo can transform your workflow!

The PieceMaker

An automated linear saw that cuts, prints and optimizes.

The PieceGiver

A high speed, fully automatic lumber loading system.

$349,000 Location: MO

New, Monet DeSawyer 2000, computerized, five-bladed component saw, sets up in 15 to 17 seconds, can run in manual mode, downloads projects from a network or manually using display screen controls. Features all powered movements, cuts from 15" 90/90 cuts to 20 foot length, 2 x 3" to 2 x 12" lumber depths and internal brakes are standard. Options include enhanced servo controls featuring autocalibration, catcher's display and either shaker or belt scrap conveyor and incline. 440 volt, 3 phase electrical.

By Simpson Strong-Tie Staff

IWhere Innovation Meets Industry: Simpson Strong-Tie at BCMC

t’s almost show time and we cannot wait to share with you all of the innovative solutions we are working on at this year’s BCMC show in Omaha.

Innovative Software

We are excited to announce our newest addition to our Component Solutions® Software suite, CS Producer™. CS Producer is our new truss production management software. This cutting-edge, cloud-based software gives floor and roof truss manufacturers powerful ways to schedule and manage daily operations. Stop by our booth to demo this latest innovative software solution.

Innovative Equipment

Our Monet DeSauw and EasyFrame Automated Marking saws will again be on display at this year’s show. We will demo the EasyCut Angle 24 Saw and the Monet DeRobo saw in our booth both days, so stop by and see how our industry-leading cutting solutions can empower the growth of your business.

Innovative Services

Our truss design services provide a personal Project Manager to help guide customers through the design process using our Component Solutions Truss Studio software. Let us show you how our services can be a game-changer for your company.

Innovative Hardware

Simpson Strong-Tie’s innovative connectors, fasteners, and anchors provide you with strength and support for your building needs. Stop by our booth to see our latest in hangers, connectors, and component hardware solutions.

Demo Suite

Stop by our demo suite upstairs for a personal demo showcasing all of the exciting updates we have made with our Component Solutions software. Contact your Simpson Strong-Tie representative to set up a meeting.

Happy Hour Fun

We are once again hosting our Happy Hour event at the Old Mattress Factory on Wednesday night! More details will be available at our booth. We hope to see you there.

Booth Fun

Don’t forget to stop by our booth for some Jenga game fun! Compete with your industry friends with this funfilled game of strategy and suspense.

We look forward to seeing you at our booth this year and sharing all of our innovative solutions with you.

See ya, router.

SpeedWorx makes pre-cut sheathing more economical. Ditch the router and save material while increasing production.

See SpeedWorx at BCMC Sept 29-October 3rd Booth #1001 and #1002

Used Hain Quick Rafter Cutter

• Reconditioned in December 2020

• Board Sizes: 2x4 and 2x6

• Motors: Two 1 HP / 220 Volt or 440 Volt / 3 Phase

• Saw Blades: 7 1/4" Carbide Tipped (set at 45 degrees)

• Angle Adjustment: Manual Rotation with Air Brake

• Air Supply: 90 PSI

• Carriage: Steel Rails with Steel Dual V Rollers

• Pedestal: 3/16" Formed Steel

• Saw Housing: 1/2" Billet Aluminum

• Covers: 10 Gauge (1/8" thick) Steel

• Fully Enclosed for Safety

$12,500 NOW $9,900 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Work Smar ter

2008 Alpine ALS 286A Linear Saw

• Servo Controlled Linear Saw

• Touch Screen Computer

• Automated Infeed Deck

• Infeed/Outfeed Roller Table

• Ink Jet Printer (does not work)

• 230 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes: Outfeed Queue Rollers & Waste Conveyor

$29,900 NOW $14,900 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

A dverti$er

In answer to the demands of high-volume customers comes the Monet DeSauw FWA 500 CA (Automated Controls) floor web saw. The 500 CA is perfect for component manufacturers who routinely run floor trusses in high volumes with variable web geometry. Another primary feature is enhanced safety through automation which eliminates the need to open the saw motor cabinets other than for periodic service. The 500 CA includes automation for all blades, including the fixed cut-off blade for minimal waste. Lumber infeed speed is variable up to sixty (60) boards per minute, while the powered carriage utilizes rack and pinion drive with airlock for set accuracy throughout the production run. Your operator will easily download batches to the 500 CA saw from your design software via an ethernet connection to a MS Windows 10 industrial PC with a 17″ monitor housed in a stand-alone console. If you frequently batch floor web cutting, and if enhanced safety with increased productivity are a concern, then an automated Monet FWA 500 CA may be the right selection for you. More information

That'sallthetimeittakes todrillstudsforrunningRomexorotherelectricalwireinthewallpanels

Motor: HeavyDuty5HP-3phase-220vor440v(Pleasespecifywhenordering)

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate

LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

Covers: 10Gauge(1/8"Thick)Aluminumremovable

Dimensions: Height-60inches,Width-33inches,Depth-33inches

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

Design. Cut. Connect. Build.

Boost your productivity from end to end.

To learn more, contact your representative at

•

• Cuts 2x3 through 2x12 from 11" to 20'-0"

• Computer, Enclosure & Stand

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• E xcludes Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Video available upon request

• Add $12,500 for 6 Chain Live Deck $16,500 FOB ND Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Alpine

Ask

“We’ve worked with Alpine in creating top quality products surpassing customer expectations since 1984. Over the years Alpine team members have become more like family and we couldn’t do this without them!”

— Tolga Adak Florida Quality Truss Inc.

and

By Alpine Staff

ASimplify Floor Plan Review

rtificial Intelligence (AI) technology is transforming design and project management workflows. By removing redundancies and automating tedious tasks, AI helps designers work faster. Reviewing architectural drawings, floor plans, and construction documents can be painful, and important changes can be missed. However, by integrating AI, this process becomes faster, simpler, and more efficient.

Compare PDFs with AI-Technology for Faster Reviews

The AI-powered Plan Comparison Tool, nominated for the 2025 SBCA Innovation Grant, allows component designers and managers to quickly identify differences between plans without manually scanning PDFs for changes. At the core of this tool is Smart Compare, an AI technology that helps to align and compare relevant architectural drawings. It automatically matches pages, preload comparisons, and detects text, structural, and visual differences, saving time. This workflow speeds up the process and eliminates the potential for costly errors while facilitating better multidisciplinary collaboration.

Quickly identify differences between plans with the AI-powered Plan Comparison Tool

Quickly Identify Changes with Visual Regression

The new easy-to-use tool compares plans side-by-side and clearly highlights added, removed, or altered content. Whether it’s images, text, drawings, blueprints, or annotations, it provides accurate detection—quickly identifying what is added, removed, or different to keep the review process fast. Users can filter comparisons, focus on specific areas, or select individual pages based on project needs.

Collaborate Easily with Built-In Review Tools

Effortlessly send a PDF for approval or review with the Plan Comparison Tool. The tool enables seamless collaboration directly within the platform. Users can share, comment, tag team members, and create review documents. This provides actionable insights for teams, improving communication, and better project management alignment.

See this tool in action at BCMC 2025—visit us at booth #1118 or check it out in the innovation aisle at booth #1014. For additional information or to arrange a private demonstration, please contact your local Alpine Sales Representative or email info@alpineitw.com.

UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE WITH COMBILIFT!

ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE AND EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS

Our pioneering product range of multidirectional, articulated and pedestrian forklifts, straddle carriers and container loaders allows you to manoeuvre long loads safely, reduce aisle widths and increase the amount of space available for storage.

For 25 years, Combilift has been revolutionising the way companies handle and store goods. We help companies of all sizes and from every industry to maximise the capacity, safety and efficiency of their warehouse and storage facilities. CONTACT US TODAY

To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

2016 Alpine AutoMill HP Component Saw

Alpine AutoMill HP, model 349C component saw. Servo controlled computerized saw sets up in 2 to 19 seconds and downloads from a network, or by using a touch screen for ease of operation. Five-head automated component saw works in both automated (downloading files), semi-automated control (via touch-screen input) or manual mode. It has (23) axes of automated movement, enhanced diagnostics, and auto management reporting.

The HP cuts from 2′-6″ to 20′-0″ long material in size range from 2×3″ through 2×12″, and 4-angle floor webs from 2′-0″. Includes [3] 18″, [1] 20″ and [1] 30″ blades with air brakes, Windows 7 o/s and under-saw scrap conveyor. The Windows 7 o/s can be upgraded to a version of Windows 10 that will be supported until 2032, at an additional expense.

Also includes over $8,000 in spare parts. 480 volt, 3 phase, 100 Amp electrical required. 90 PSI @ 69 SCFM air required.

$129,997 - FOB OR

The Auto-Feeding RetroC

The Amazing RetroC by Enventek

A complete wood processing system proven to profitably feed cut lumber to truss plants of all sizes.

Easy to use, simple robust automation that is scalable with less labor. A RetroC holds calibration.

Out Produces Any Saw in Batch Cut or Cut by Truss Mode

Auto-Feeding, no upper hold-downs (just 15 automation axes) with electronic braking. Efficient material handling that will significantly increase cut piece production with reduced operating costs and improve truss build times with consistently accurate cut pieces.

The Magic of SpeedCatch - No Catching Labor

Catching labor is eliminated with our optional SpeedCatch cart system. Sophisticated SpeedCatch software enhances the efficiency of truss production by effectively collating and organizing the lumber at the truss tables. SpeedCatch upgrades the RetroC to a comprehensive one-person (sawyer) wood processing system.

2002 Monet B500 five-blade component saw – Single Sided Setup includes digital readouts, push-button movement controls for angles, manual movement for length, mechanical backup counters, (1) 30″ diameter blade, (2) 18″ diameter blades, (2) 16″ diameter blades, powered chain infeed with upper hold-downs and shaker pan waste conveyor. Cuts angles from 8 to 115 degree angles. Minimum 90/90 cut is 10 inches and shortest angle cut is 18 inches. Cuts 2×4 through 2×12 lumber up to 20 feet in length. Includes horizontal shaker-pan waste conveyor, spare set of blades, any available spare parts. 480 V, 3 Ph, 100 Amp electrical.

a blending of excellent services and products, with answers that work...!© Not producing the results you need or want – getting conflicting info about what to do and the equipment and the systems you may need?

you Buy - Ask yourself –do I need a salesman or a guide? If you want an Independent Guide that has your bottom-line results as the #1 priority, Call Me. If the salesman will do - we'll talk later... Also, don't let Financing Deals influence your best solution. FitzGroup can arrange – Zero down & No payments for 90 Days!

Please be assured that your investment with any of our selected partners will not cost one penny more with the Fitzgerald Group as your purchasing contact. In addition, you will receive the full advantage of our Partner Relationships and Services NOT offered elsewhere.

IN-STOCK Truss Trailers

By Jamie Tait Construction Element

Solutions Product Specialist Stiles Machinery

TFrom On-Site Craftsmanship to Off-Site Innovation: The Mindset Shift Transforming American Builders

he construction industry in the United States has begun undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional on-site building approaches, characterized by manual labor, weather dependency, and fragmented workflows, are giving way to a more innovative, efficient methodology: off-site construction manufacturing. This shift isn’t merely about adopting new technologies; it requires a fundamental change in mindset—one that challenges longheld beliefs about craftsmanship, project management, and quality control.

American builders prided themselves on hands-on craftsmanship: walking job sites, overseeing workers, and adapting plans in real-time. While this approach fosters flexibility and personal touch, it often results in delays, extra cost, and inconsistent quality. Off-site manufacturing involves producing building components in controlled factory environments, then transporting and assembling them on-site. This method promises faster project completion, reduced waste, and enhanced precision. Yet, transitioning from on-site to off-site requires more than just investing in factory equipment; it demands a profound shift in how builders think about their roles, processes, and success.

Mindset Shift: From Craftsmanship to Systems Thinking

1. From Flexibility to Standardization: Embracing Replication Over Customization

Historically, on-site builders have celebrated their ability to customize structures to meet unique client desires, adapting designs and methods in real-time. While this flexibility showcases craftsmanship and responsiveness, it can lead to inefficiencies, increased costs, and inconsistent quality due to variability.

Standardization becomes a strategic advantage. Builders must develop modular designs where components—walls, floors, roofs—are engineered for repeatability. This means designing with manufacturing constraints in mind, creating groups of components that can be produced en masse without sacrificing quality or functionality.

What this entails:

• Design for Manufacture: Collaborate early with engineers and fabricators to ensure designs are optimized for factory production.

• Acceptance of Limits: Recognize that not every detail can be customized on the fly; instead, establish a palette of options that meet most project needs.

• Efficiency Gains: Repetition reduces costs, shortens lead times, and improves quality due to economies of scale and process familiarity.

The result is a mindset that values “planned sameness” over bespoke craftsmanship in every detail, fostering a more predictable, scalable approach to building.

2. From Reliance on Individual Craftsmanship to Systematic Processes and Quality Assurance

On-site construction often relies heavily on individual skills—masons, carpenters, electricians— whose expertise and experience directly impact quality. While valuable, this approach can lead to inconsistencies, especially when project conditions vary.

The focus shifts toward establishing repeatable, documented processes that guarantee quality regardless of individual workers. Automation, prefabrication protocols, and rigorous inspection routines become central.

What this entails:

• Process Development: Create detailed workflows for manufacturing, assembly, and quality checks.

• Training and Certification: Ensure staff are trained to follow standardized procedures precisely.

• Data and Feedback Loops: Use data collection to monitor quality metrics, identify issues, and continuously improve processes.

The result is a culture that trusts systematic procedures over individual craftsmanship, leading to higher consistency, reduced rework, and predictable outcomes.

3. From On-Site Management to Supply Chain and Logistics Optimization

Traditional construction management involves coordinating multiple subcontractors, materials, and workflows on-site, often dealing with delays caused by weather, procurement issues, or last-minute changes.

With off-site construction, the emphasis moves toward controlling the entire supply chain— procurement, transportation, inventory management—to ensure components arrive just-in-time for assembly. This requires viewing the project through a supply chain lens.

What this entails:

• Strategic Sourcing: Establish long-term relationships with suppliers to ensure quality and reliability.

• Inventory Planning: Maintain optimal stock levels of components to prevent delays.

• Logistics Planning: Design transportation and delivery schedules that align with the manufacturing and construction timeline.

The result is a mindset that prioritizes planning, predictability, and efficiency in the movement of materials—reducing waste, delays, and cost overruns.

4. From Isolated Projects to Integrated, Collaborative Design and Construction

Traditional projects often follow a linear process: design, then build, with limited collaboration until late stages. This siloed approach can lead to design clashes, errors, and inefficiencies.

The off-site approach encourages early and ongoing collaboration between designers, engineers, manufacturers, and builders. Design for off-site construction involves considering manufacturing constraints from the start, fostering a “design for manufacturability” mindset.

What this entails:

• Integrated Teams: Form multidisciplinary teams that work together from initial concepts through fabrication.

• Concurrent Design and Manufacturing: Use Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other digital tools to simulate and optimize components before production.

• Shared Goals: Align all stakeholders around common objectives of quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

The result is a culture of teamwork, transparency, and shared responsibility, reducing errors and streamlining project timelines.

5. From Unpredictability to Predictability and Planning

On-site projects are often subject to unpredictable variables— weather disruptions, unforeseen site conditions—that can cause delays and budget overruns.

Controlled factory environments provide stability, allowing for precise scheduling and resource allocation. The focus shifts toward disciplined planning, setting realistic milestones, and contingency management.

What this entails:

• Advanced Scheduling: Use project management tools to map out every phase with buffer periods.

• Risk Management: Identify potential bottlenecks early and develop mitigation strategies.

• Continuous Monitoring: Track progress against plans, adjusting workflows proactively.

The result is a mindset that values proactive planning, disciplined execution, and the confidence that comes from predictable processes—ultimately delivering projects on time and within budget.

Cultivating the New Mindset

Transitioning into off-site construction requires builders to fundamentally rethink how they approach every aspect of their work—from design and quality assurance to logistics and collaboration. Cultivating these new mindsets enables firms to unlock the full potential of off-site manufacturing—delivering higher quality, faster projects, and greater industry resilience.

As urbanization accelerates and sustainability becomes a priority, off-site construction is poised to redefine American building practices. The mindset shift from craft to system, from reactive to proactive planning, will be the driving force behind this evolution. Builders who adapt their perspectives—seeing themselves as system integrators and manufacturing partners—will position themselves at the forefront of innovation. This cultural transformation promises not only more efficient projects but also a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive industry. The journey from traditional on-site building to off-site manufacturing is as much mental as it is technical. It requires a willingness to rethink roles, embrace standardization, and trust in systems. American builders who cultivate this new mindset will unlock unprecedented opportunities, shaping the future of construction with agility, precision, and ingenuity.

If you are interested in a partnering with experts in off-site construction lines, contact Stiles Machinery at (616) 698-7500 or visit StilesMachinery.com/OSC to learn more.

New Monet DeSawyer ESC (Servo Controlled) Component Saw

Monet DeSauw model Desawyer ESC enhanced servo-controlled ( ESC) component saw with touch screen user interface with backup mechanical controls. Includes three operating modes: Auto (download setups from LAN or USB), Semi-auto (touch screen setup entry), and Manual (backup push-button switches for powering all movements). Includes over-travel protection, comprehensive setup screens, auto sequencing, auto-calibration and pneumatic brakes on all five () blades. One (1) 30” blade and four (4) 16” blades. Manual cut limits are 18” min., 11” min. square edge blocks, 20’ max cut. Belt under-saw waste conveyor. Voltage: 480 volt/3 phase/60 Amp. Air: 50 PSI at 5 CFM. One-year warranty included. Can be paired with a model PD-6 lumber feed system at an additional cost. Heavy duty 80 RIV chain feed system. 16’ wide x 20’ long x 36” deck height. Transfers 3’ to 20’ lumber. Includes auto-feed control, foot pedal override, forward & reverse, variable speed control with HD double-bearing construction. Other additional-cost options include, inkjet marking, label printing, backside screen display, spare blades and incline scrap conveyor.

$379,900 FOB MO

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

To see meaningful labor savings, quality improvement and production gains, SL Lasers with their easyto-see green light are nothing short of illuminating. They enhance worker accuracy and productivity, regardless of experience or primary language. They can reduce tedious setup time by up to 70%. No complex training or costly service agreements are required. And SL Lasers integrate seamlessly with any component design software and are quickly installed over existing equipment. We’ve been trailblazers in wood component laser projection since its very beginning, and we’re still delivering more rapid ROI for roof truss, wall and floor panel producers every day. Contact our enlightening team at Wood Tech Systems to see how SL Laser can deliver for you.

2006 Alpine Speed Rafter Cutter

• Simplified compound cutting for hip, valley and jack rafters (double & single compound cuts)

• Two Worm-Drive Circular Saws (110 Volt / 30 Amps)

• Saw Turntable (for angle cutting)

• Saw Carriage (for up to 45 degree bevel cutting)

• Infeed & Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

$4,900 NOW $4,250 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Used - Metra Cut Radial Arm Saw (2x) Parts Machine

$500 – Make Offer

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

Used - 2005 Model 305 Infeed Conveyor Designed for use with all component saws. To include: Soft Start ~ Soft Stop Inverter System. Programmable load sensing; Overload / Jamb sensing shut down feature. Gear motor providing conveyor speed of 36' per minute. Forward and reversing controls for location at both ends of conveyor unit. Material capacity range - 4' through 24' lumber. Chain deck pedestals 20' long with cross bracing. Staging area at the saw independent of the live deck system. 30,000lb. Deck capacity. Call for pricing

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

New Monet FWA 500 Floor Web Saw

New, Monet five-head, floor truss web saw, cuts 4-angle, 4×2 floor truss webs from 13 inches and 90-90 blocks from 7 inches, to 4 foot long maximum length. Features 10-board magazine feed, powered, fixed-quadrant angulation, manual carriage standard, scrap conveyor and cut-off blade. Options available for longer carriage length, incline scrap conveyor, and choice of shaker or belt scrap conveyor. 440 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical. 50 PSI air at 5 CFM required.

$75,000 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• 230 Volt / 3 Phase

• Cutting Length: 14’ / Cutting Height:

• Automatic Mode: Plunge, Saw & Return with Variable Speed Control

• Top & Bottom Sawing Beams with Pneumatic Arrest

• Digital Horizontal Cutting with Motor-Driven Precision Adjustment

• Digital Longitudinal Stop with Fine Adjustment

• Pneumatic Support Grid

• Dust Extraction Port

• Like New Condition

• A 2016 COIMA FI6000 Dust Collector is available at additonal expense FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

NEW!

New SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Station

New SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Station by Safety Speed Manufacturing- Reduce labor and operator fatigue by taking advantage of the SpeedWorx automated vertical panel saw. This one-person station cuts wood sheathing sheets up to 50-inches x 10-feet, and up to 2-inch thickness, using a fast 1-button cutting setup with CNC accuracy to 1/32 of an inch (0.03125″). The photos of raw materials illustrate the drastic reduction of scrap material thanks to implementing the Rogworx saw station.

Visual user interface makes choosing the job and sheet cutting order easy to determine. Files are downloadable allowing for minimum waste. Saw station reads WBX file format (Alpine) or EHX file format (MiTek) or CSV files with manipulation.

Automated sequencing of sheets provides optimum usage of each sheet. The cutting chamber changes from ri to cross-cutting automatically. All this in a very small machine footprint, so it can fit easily into your existing building.

Visual user interface with standard ‘Auto Fill’ feature makes choosing the job and sheet cutting order easy to determine. System offers full optimization and sequence panel parts looking ahead through the job based on your specification. The cutting chamber changes from rip to cross-cutting automatically. All this in a 100 square foot footprint, approximately 25′ long x 4′ deep, so it can fit within existing facilities.

Includes advanced dust collection. Integrated Printing for labeling parts is available as an option. 208-230V volts, 3-Phase, 25 Amp electrical required, 5 CFM at 100 PSI air required.

Price Based on Configuration FOB NM

By the ROGworx Team

LWall Panel Sheathing: How to Optimize Material and Labor

et’s face it, nobody loves sheathing walls panels. Sheathing is heavy, awkward to handle, slows down your production line, generates a lot of waste, and depending on how you cut it, it can create a lot of air-born dust that can make your working environment unpleasant. However, it does stay true to the component industry’s objective of reducing material and labor in the field.

So how do you maximize your wall panel sheathing efforts? As with most things in the component industry, the key is automation and software — and this is where the SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Saw excels.

The SpeedWorx Sheathing Saw is a collaboration between Safety Speed Manufacturing and ROGworx Automation. Safety Speed Manufacturing has been in the business of building vertical panel saws for over 70 years. With more than 70,000 vertical panel saws in service, Safety Speed knows the vertical panel saw business. Chances are, you may already have one in your facility.

ROGworx Automation was founded on the principle of Simple Automation. While there are several automated solutions available in the industry today, many involve complex systems that require highly trained personnel to operate and maintain. This can be a roadblock for many small and medium-sized operations. ROGworx strives to create simple automation that is easy to operate and simple to maintain.

Together, Safety Speed and ROGworx created the SpeedWorx Sheathing Saw to be just that: simple to operate and easy to maintain, while also generating a very beneficial return on investment. We started with the proven mechanical design of the Safety Speed 7400, added a precise and accurate automation package, and designed an easy-to-use software interface to boot.

Industry-Proven Equipment

The 7400 is Safety Speed’s industry-proven heavy-duty panel saw. It comes with a 3 HP motor which has been beefed up to a three-phase version for the SpeedWorx. It is also now driven by an AC inverter to provide better control and monitoring.

The frame has been lengthened to provide additional support for the drive mechanism and inbound and outbound material. The crosscut mechanism has been strengthened as well to accommodate the increased weight of the saw mechanism and increased duty cycle.

Smart and Simple Automation

The SpeedWorx Saw essentially has 4 automated axes of movement — one axis each for the ripping and crosscut motions, another axis to rotate the saw between the rip and crosscut directions, and a fourth axis to move the saw in and out of the cutting position. This last axis provides a safety feature unique to the SpeedWorx saw.

The saw blade is only exposed while the system is cutting material. The rest of the time, it is safely tucked up inside the saw box. Each axis of movement simply replicates the process that vertical panel saw users have been doing manually for decades. This is the “simple” part of the automation, and it’s easy to understand and easy to maintain.

Where the “smart” part of the automation comes into play is when the SpeedWorx combines those simple motions to create parts that other panel and table saws can’t create. By coordinating the rip, crosscut, and rotation axes, the SpeedWorx saw is able to cut angled pieces for rake walls. That’s right, with the SpeedWorx saw, you can now precut the sheathing for your special off-line walls too!

Ease of Use

One of the design criteria for the SpeedWorx saw was that it had to be easy to use. This was achieved through the use of a simple but powerful control application. In the automated cutting mode, the user is presented with a list of parts that has been imported from your preferred design application utilizing the EHX, WBX, BVX, or CSV import formats.

The operator can then select parts in whatever order they want and add them to a sheet of raw material. As the user adds the parts, the system analyzes the available space on the raw material and filters the list accordingly, so the operator knows what pieces can still fit on the sheet. Easy!

The true magic of the system, however, is the “Auto-Fill” feature of the software. With AutoFill, the operator clicks one button and the system begins looking through the list of required parts and fills the raw sheet automatically utilizing as much material as possible. There is even a “Look Ahead” feature which lets the operator define how far to look ahead in the list for available parts. This Look Ahead feature can be adjusted to look ahead by pieces, panels, bundle layers, and even bundles, all on the fly. This allows the operator to balance the give and take between material utilization and the management of cut pieces on the backside of the saw.

Part Labeling

The SpeedWorx is also available with a part labeling printer. The printer marks each piece as they are cut, allowing the operator to quickly organize the pieces as they come off the saw.

The labeling also assists the assemblers in placing the parts on the wall once they make it to the assembly line. By default, the printer marks both the panel label and part ID. There is also a setting to include the bundle name if required.

Dust Control

A lot of thought and design has been put into the dust control system of the SpeedWorx saw. The sawing chamber is covered on the bottom, front, and sides. The top remains open to provide a flow of air down and toward the back where it is greeted by two 4” ducts to be connected to the vacuum system of your choosing. A minimum 3 HP system is recommended. The system does a great job of minimizing the amount of air-born dust, and it even works well with gypsum.

Are Ready to Optimize Your Material and Labor?

The SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Saw can play a valuable role in your wall panel sheathing process. SpeedWorx helps increase production and minimize sheathing waste. It also allows you to get the job done with fewer staff members. SpeedWorx will create efficiencies you didn’t even know were possible. Looking for a great ROI? Look no further than the SpeedWorx.

If you’ll be at BCMC in Omaha, please stop by and see us in booths 1001 and 1002. On display, we’ll also have our Badger EWP system for cutting/routing any brand of EWP product.

If you would like a personalized demo on how a SpeedWorx saw would benefit you, please reach out to us. Drop us an email at Sales@ROGworx.com or give us a call at 833-ROG-WORX. We love talking shop!

OPTIMIZE WITH THE INNOVATORS

REAL-TIME OPTIMIZATION IS HERE

Vekta’s innovative Real-Time Optimization software leverages decades of technology advancements and intelligent algorithm development to provide unparalleled flexibility and control of your cutting and production planning.

RTO is designed specifically to make considerable improvements to operational and material efficiencies in plants with a direct delivery system, but can also benefit smaller setups as well.

KEY FEATURES:

• SIMULTANEOUS OPTIMIZATION – instantly optimize multiple jobs across assembly stations, minimizing waste.

• REAL-TIME ADJUSTMENTS – adapt cutting volumes and flow to meet dynamic point-of-use demand.

• DECENTRALIZED INTERFACE – empower your operators with the ability to schedule zero-disruption recuts directly from the point-of-use. Load, adjust, reorder and reroute in real-time from any network device.

• MULTI-SAW MANAGEMENT – efficient single operator control of multiple saws, reducing labor requirements and costs.

• CONTINUOUS CUTTING LISTS – eliminate end-of-file waste through seamless job transitions, optimizing material usage.

Simply put, RTO is a comprehensive solution to provide significant improvements in productivity and waste reduction.

• Serial #9184

• Se rvo Driven Single Blade Linear Saw

• Au tomated Cutting with Software Download to Operator Console (Windows 10)

• 20' Capacity Loading Conveyor System

• Automated Infeed Wheel

• Automated Clamping & Positioning System

• Angle & Bevel Drive for Roof & Floor Truss Cutting

• Vertical End Mill Prep

• 20' Capacity Outfeed Table with Ink Jet Printer (the REA JET print head is NEW)

• 6 Arm Storage Deck (adjacent to saw outfeed table)

• Waste Conveyor (under saw, parts to the rear)

• Incline Waste Conveyor

• A/C System for Control Cabinet

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase $59,900 FOB

Saw 2015 Monet DeSawyer 2000, (non-servo) fiveblade, automated component saw using a touch screen interface and Windows 10 O/S for direct input. The DeSawyer 2K Can operate in automated or manual input mode. (1) 10 h.p., 30″ diameter blade with PAE setup & (4) 5 h.p. 16″ diameter blades with center line setup. Mechanical backup counters and scales, powered chain infeed with upper hold-downs, and shaker pan waste conveyor (no scrape incline). 16″ blades cut angles from 3º to 115º, 30″ blade from 3º to 100º . Minimum 90/90 cut is 10 inches and shortest 4-angle cut is 18 inches. Cuts 2×4 through 2×12 lumber up to 20 feet in length. 480 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical 90 psi air required. (Seller reserves the right to decline sale based on buyer’s regional trade area).

$119,000 FOB GA

New Monet FWA 500 Floor Web Saw

New Monet 5-head, floor truss web saw, cuts 4-angle, 4×2 floor truss webs from 13 inches and 90-90 blocks from 7 inches, to 4 foot long maximum length. Features 10-board magazine feed, powered, fixedquadrant angulation, manual carriage standard, scrap conveyor and cut-off blade. Options available for longer carriage length, incline scrap conveyor, and choice of shaker or belt scrap conveyor. 440 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical. 50 PSI air at 5 CFM required. $79,000 FOB MO

www.woodtechsystems.com

• 10 Each - Standard 20 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 10" Platens (refurbished in 2011)

• 6 Each - 2011 Double 40 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 15" Platens

• 2 Each - 2021 Double 40 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 15" Platens

• 2 Each - 10 HP Two Stage Hydraulic Systems with Controls (230 Volt / 3 Phase)

• Track System for 55' Scissor & Flat Bottom Trusses

• 1 Each - Peak Head Track (perpendicular to base line)

• 2 Each - Movable Bottom Chord Tracks (to adjust for pitch)

• 8 Each - Floating Tracks for Top Chord Head

• Clamping Package: Peak, End Stop, Camber Stops & Air Clamps

• Air & Hydraulic Manifolds with Quick Connectors for Heads

• Pn eumatic Pop-Up Skatewheel Ejectors (for truss removal)

• 56' Powered Transfer Roller with Stands

• 26 Each - 14' Powered & Idle Exiting Rollers with Stands $89,900 NOW $75,900 FOB AR

Smarter Solutions For Growing Industry Demands

Maximize every square inch and every minute of your truss production with EIS Retrofits & Upgrades. Our solutions turn your existing truss lines into high-performance, space-optimized, automated systems. Why Eide? Our automated options are compatible with most table and gantry brands, including discontinued models. Designed to be modular and fully expandable, our systems grow with your business, allowing you to scale your line’s capabilities without replacing your entire line.

Double Jack RetrofitTrackless UpgradesExpansions & Upgrades

Double your jack and small truss production, in half the space. Operate on both sides of your table with a end-ofline or standalone retrofit.

Say goodbye to floor tracks. Our EIS Trackless Upgrade clears your workspace and integrates with WizardPDS® automation.

Your table, automated.

Enhance your system with automated-ready tables, reconditioned or new gantries, & the latest lifters, conveyors, & air systems.

We bring the best together!

Baumeister Lumber Splicer

• Vertical Hydraulic Press with 3"x 12" Platen Size

• 2x3 and 2x4 Lumber Material (3" x 10" maximum plate size)

• Magnetic Platens to hold plates in the correct position

• Working Pressure: 1600 PSI

• Dual press cycle activation for safety

• 208, 240 or 480 Volt / 3 Phase (10 HP)

• Video available upon request

• Excludes: Infeed/O utfeed Roller Conveyor

• Optional 2x6 Capacity (up to 16" long plate) Splicer is available

$29,500 NOW $26,500 FOB PA

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Four Eagle Production Presses with Jig Table

• (4) Eagle Production Presses (1 new in 2023, 2 with new pumps within the last 3 years, 1 with older Simplex motor)

• (2) TP300 C-Clamps (Roof & Floor Trusses)

• (2) TP600 C-Clamps (Extra Throat Depth for 2x8 & 2x10 Roof Trusses)

• 25 Ton Cylinder

• 5 1/4" x 6 1/4" Platen

• 220 Volt / 1 Phase

• Jig Table

• (2) 40' Steel Beams

• (4) Beam Trolleys

$37,500 FOB CO Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• Front and Rear Safety Bars

• Adjustable Roller Height (1 1/2” and 3 1/2”)

$14,900 FOB IA

Associates

EMSI Field Repair Press

EMSI 10 Ton Field Repair Truss Press System. Complete with: 1/2 HP, 115 Volt, 50/60 Cycle Universal Motor – Operates at voltage as low as 60 volts. 10,000 PSI Portable Power Pack with Two Speed Operation – 200 cu in/min @ 0–200 psi, 20 cu in/min @ 200–10,000 psi and Externally Adjustable Relief Valve (unit weight 55 lbs.). C-Clamp Assembly with 8" Maximum Reach, 4" x 5" Pressing Platen (optional platen available for 4” x 2”). Independent 10 Ton Hydraulic Cylinder. 10’ Hydraulic Hose Assembly with Quick Disconnect Coupling. Handle with 24 Volt Remote Electrical Pendant. Call for Price Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

Our client, a private, singlelocation roof and floor truss manufacturer for the local single-family custom and small multifamily market, is seeking an on-site truss designer. The ideal candidate can hit the ground running using MiTek software. Besides the normal day-to-day duties of a normal truss designer, the employer is looking for someone who can create an overall design department process, including standards and specifications, to provide consistent design results across all designers, internal, remote, and contract. If you are someone who can set up standards in the software and in writing, Advancement to Design Manager is possible $32-38hr DOE plus benefits, PTO, 401k, Health Ins. Relocation assistance is negotiable

Element

By Marco Gagnon

Get to Know Element Equipment at BCMC

If you’ve been seeing our ads and reading my articles, including last month’s cover story, “Celebrating Growth at Element Equipment,” then you’ve gotten to know a little about Element Equipment. An original equipment manufacturer based in Grand Falls, NB, we are known for reliable, durable, and high-performance machinery that will withstand the test of time.

Our next stop is the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) in Omaha, NE, where we’d love the opportunity to connect with you in person. Even though this is only our third year at BCMC, our company has over 55 years of experience, including 14 years in truss building before expanding into equipment manufacturing. We’re excited to be part of this event again.

We may not have active machinery demonstrations like some of the big guns at the show, but we will be able to tell you why we offer some of the best products on the market. We pride ourselves in having innovative technology that addresses specific needs. We specialize in precision-engineered solutions that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and durability in wood construction.

In addition to top-notch equipment, we also provide exceptional customer service, timely communication, and ongoing support to ensure your complete satisfaction. For us, it’s not enough to make a great piece of equipment — your success is our priority, and we believe in partnerships with our clients, working hand in hand to understand your unique challenges and goals.

If you’re attending BCMC on September 29 to October 3, please stop by our booth. We can tell you more about our BCE-Gantry, BCE-Master, BCE-Finish Roller, BCE-Stacker, and BCE-Floor Joist Gantry System, and you can tell us about your equipment needs. Get to know how Element Equipment will deliver tailored machinery solutions for your success.

“The equipment is extremely durable to stand up to the beating it takes in a truss plant”.

Jackie Crutcher - Manager, Wilson Lumber

TheJobLine.com

Join a nationwide structural component manufacturer seeking a Remote Multifamily Truss Designer. You’ll create roof and floor truss designs and layouts using MiTek or equivalent software, interpret architectural drawings, and collaborate with internal and external teams. Responsibilities include optimizing designs, managing multiple projects, and providing technical support. Candidates should have 5+ years of multifamily truss design experience, and score above 85 on the JobLine Truss Design Skills Evaluation. Bring a friend and earn a bonus! Wait until you

Jig System

The TruStance Pedestal Jig System was developed to solve the problems associated with pedestal jig systems, while retaining and enhancing all the advantages. The system features track mounted pedestals with a track and lockdown design, movable pedestals, and a roller lift assembly. The pedestal tops are 30″ above the floor, creating a comfortable working height. The ability to configure the system in a very small footprint makes it ideal for any size truss plant. It is designed to use with a ‘C-clamp’ type press.

With the ability to install the interchangeable crossmembers and angle iron stops on both track mounted and movable pedestals, the system can be configured to meet the needs of even the most complicated truss designs.

Movable pedestals can be moved and locked down efficiently; the 4″ thick steel base provides the weight needed to keep them in position.

Bottom chord pedestals are installed on the steel track mounted to the floor. Pedestals are easy to move and rigidly lock into place with threaded rod locks.

The optional air activated roller lift assembly raises the truss above the jig to be easily ejected. Its versatile design allows it to be configured for any set-up.

TruStance recommends a (16) pedestal system for roof trusses to 60-ft in span. 120 volt, 1 phase, 20 Amp electrical required. 50 PSI air required.

By Jeff Brown, Director of Products & Sales

See What Panels Plus Has to Offer at BCMC

As I discussed in my May article, “Setting Our Sights on Innovation and Expansion at Panels Plus,” we’ve begun implementing a 2025–2027 strategic plan to raise the bar with a renewed focus on innovation, customer support, and improvements to our existing machines. These initiatives are rooted in feedback from our customers and in our team’s drive to make your job easier and more efficient.

One element that is always a constant in our plans—exhibiting at the annual Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) every fall! With proudly Made in the USA equipment, BCMC lets us showcase what we have designed and manufactured for constructing wall panels, floor cassettes, and associated subcomponents for the off-site, modular, and prefabricated building industries.

Of course, we also provide technical expertise and assistance, installation and training, and customer support, so we love having the opportunity to meet everyone on the show floor, which gives you a chance to get to know us better too.

If you’re attending BCMC 2025 in Omaha, NE, please stop by our booth. We’ll show you how we’re finding ways to make the lives of our customers easier and more efficient—without compromising on the quality you expect from Panels Plus.

1995 Pacific Automation AutoRoll TR-14 Roof Gantry System

Side-eject system 14′ X 98′ working length, includes (1) 2005 Pacific Automation AutoRoll TR-14 gantry head with 24″ dia., (1) 1995 Pacific Automation AutoRoll TR-14 gantry head with updated controls installed in 2016, and (1) 2018 Wescana WFR-16 final roller press with 24″ diameter rolls. System features (12) tables, each 6′ x 13.75′ configured with 2′ aisles and one 3′-8″ x 13.75′ half-table. One 6′ table and the half-table are missing an ejector Tables are plastic build surface with drilled and tapped bottom chord steel plate. System includes (9) powered conveyors, (17) idler conveyors, (11) table ejectors, (11) receivers and all available track with base plates.

$168,997 FOB UT

Roller Gantry System

• Tee-Lok 14' Gantry Roller with Track on Floor

• 9 Each - 6'-0" x 13'-11" Steel Slotted Top Tables with Ejectors

• 7 1/2 HP Motor (460 Volt / 3 Phase)

• E xcludes: Inside Powered Exit Conveyor, Finish Roller and Outside Conveyor

$61,900 NOW $54,900 FOB HI

Wasserman & Associates

• 8 Each - Virtek LPS-6R Laser Projection Heads

• Excludes: Computer, Virtek Software License & Service Agreement

$2,000 Each or $15,000 for all 8 Heads Price in US Dollars Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com Virtek LPS-6R Laser Projection Heads

$49,880

• (1) Eagle TP300 C-Clamp Press (Roof & Floor Trusses) with Beam Trolley

• (1) Eagle TP600 C-Clamp Press (Extra Throat Depth for 2x8 & 2x10 Roof Trusses) wit Beam Trolley

New Wescana floor truss machine, available in side-eject or end-eject models. Builds floor truss depths from 12 inches to 26 inches, to 40-ft long. Features under-table cylinders powering the clamping system, built-in camber, truss flip arms, truss pop-ups, control valves for clamps, flip arms and pop-ups, with parking stations at each end of the table, and emergency shut-off bars on each side of the press head.

• 220 Volt / 1 Phase

• (12) Eagle FastSet Jig Pedestals with 50' Base Rail

• Excludes Steel Columns/Beams for Overhead Press Support

• The Presses are New , The Pedestals are Lightly Used 2022 Eagle Production Presses with FastSet Jig

• 25 Ton Cylinder with 5 1/4" x 6 1/4" Platen

• 14' Long x 4" or 5" (Inside Diameter) Schedule 40 Pipe

• Tube Steel Stands (7" Height Adjustment - Height to be Specified)

• 4 Bolt Flange Bearings

• Idle and Motorized Rollers

• 1/4 HP Motors (240/480 Volt-3 Phase) with Controls

• 1" and 1 1/4" Cold Rolled 24" Shafts Baffled

• 6 to 8 Week Delivery

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive.

TruStance Portable Field Repair Press

This is the first, self-contained, truly portable repair unit used to press metal truss plates into dimensional lumber at virtually any location. Wood component (roof and floor truss) manufacturers, as well as builders, frequently require a tool to repair metal plate connected, wood truss components. The complete unit is mounted to a wagon built from square tubular steel. Extremely compact at only 28” wide and about 32” long the wagon features four wheels on soft-rubber solid tires, and a steering axle on the front with a handle that makes the unit easily maneuverable. The wagon contains the hydraulic power unit and an area for a portable gas generator. A rack in the back securely stores the C clamp, a standard 25′ hydraulic hose, and an electric power-supply cable.

The clamp is manufactured from T1 steel, cut into a C-shape with a steel tube welded to the front that securely holds the hydraulic cylinder. Pressing is easily performed with a 4×4 magnetized steel platen that holds and presses the truss connecter plates. The C-clamp that weighs less than 30 pounds, features a throat that opens to 4-1/2” inches to accept either 4 x 2 or 2 x 4 lumber. It has a push on and release off switch to cycle the unit. A 10,000-psi electric-overhydraulic power unit pumps hydraulic fluid through a 10,000-psi hose to activate a 10-ton hydraulic cylinder with a 3.9 inch stroke. The unit can be powered by 120v electric power or an optional 120v, 2200-amp (output), gasoline powered Honda generator, which can also act as a portable power supply out in the field for other singlephase equipment.

• Pressing Capability: 4.5” throat opening presses 2×4 through 4×2, includes a standard 25-foot, HD 10,000 PSI hose, with a 10 TON, 4”x4” magnetized pressing platen.

• Electric/Hydraulic: SPX Hydraulic Technologies – Rockford, IL USA 10,000 PSI / 700 BAR. 10 ton pressing capability

• Power Source: The unit is powered by a standard 120v/15 amp electric power or an optional 120v, gasoline powered Honda generator with 2200-watt output capability, which can also act as a portable power supply for other single-phase equipment.

• Warranty: One year from date of purchase on manufactured unit, OEM warranties on hydraulic and optional gas motor

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press

Wasserman &

By Kathryn Pedde

Simplifying the Tough Tasks with JAX

In 2013, we took over a plant that ran only component saws with live decks, and we struggled to keep them fed. We arranged full bunks of lumber close to the feed decks, but that necessitated moving several bunks when we had to replace an interior bunk. When we replaced those saws with two linear saws, we wasted an equivalent amount of time rearranging bunks, even after purchasing a Combilift. And, we still had a dozen bunks of lumber arrayed around each saw. After we added a third saw, we had 40 bunks consuming floor space, and an untidy mess. Naturally, we had to break the bands on those bunks, and several of them remained unbanded for weeks, creating more culls to handle. Too often, our pickers would send below-grade boards to the saws, or even the incorrect lumber size. Unfortunately, picking lumber was the most arduous and repetitive job in our plant, and one for which we had the shortest retention. Finally, as we began cutting truss-by-truss, our number of picks multiplied, and we had to do something to improve the situation.

To improve the picking process, we examined how other plants were configured. For instance, in a highly automated plant in Cumming, Georgia, we saw an overhead trolley pick up one board at a time and place it directly on the infeed of a linear saw. That saw was tied to a conveyor that directly fed a two-station gantry, but this arrangement wasn’t able to supply enough cut parts to keep two setup stations busy. We also observed plants with two or three separate trolley systems feeding linear saws, but this didn’t resolve the duplication of inventory at each saw. And, these systems couldn’t accommodate the 30 SKUs that we needed, even though they contained a cart with several SKUs (which also had to be hand-loaded). In addition, we needed a system that would feed our component saw, which we used especially to cut wide boards when we had long runs that required them.

Fortunately, after several false starts, we found a system that was moving other commodities in hundreds of plants, much the way we wanted to move lumber. We felt it could be adapted to the truss industry, but only if the manufacturer had the engineering expertise and motivation to pioneer a new application for a small-time user. Thankfully, we found those capabilities at Sage Automation in Beaumont, Texas. Their automated gantry pickup systems worked much like a roof truss gantry, gliding on two rails over pallets of products, lifting them up, and delivering them to a conveyor system. The only thing we had to add to it was a vacuum-based pickup system, which had been well proven in plywood and LVL mills. Sage worked closely with us to add a patented end-of-arm tool to pick lumber. When we installed that system in 2023, we called it JAX, The Wood Retriever, and, since then, JAX has overcome our prior limitations.

For the last two years, we’ve been able to feed any of our 30 SKUs to any of our three saws, enabling us to level their workloads. Keeping JAX fully stocked has become only a part-time job, and we can anticipate when restocking is necessary by glancing at the monitors around the plant, which graphically display the number of pieces of each SKU remaining in JAX, and what is on hand in the rest of our plant.

With JAX, the quality of our trusses has been markedly improved, because we now have only one bundle of each lumber SKU that is unbanded, thereby minimizing the time for boards to warp or crook before they go into the jigging on our tables. JAX can pick up one board or a full layer of any bunk of truss lumber, eliminating individual man-handling of the 200+ pieces in a bunk of 2x4s.

Now, as business has slowed, it’s a great time to visit our booth #1710 at BCMC (just behind Triad, and on the way to MiTek’s) and let us show you how well JAX may work in your plant. Or make plans to visit our plant near Charlotte, NC and see how JAX eliminates one of the most repetitive, errorprone, and hard-to-fill jobs in a component plant. Please call me or Richard Pedde at 980-404-0209 with any questions or to request a tour.

• Klaisler Model GR1424 Gantry Roller

• Re cessed Floor Mounted Rail

• (5) 6' x 14' WEG-IT Tables with Ejectors

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes: Inside Exiting Conveyor, Finish Roller & Outside Conveyor

• Price in US Dollars

• Trackless Gantry Roller Press Head

• 84' x 14' Steel Slotted Top Tables with Skatewheel Ejectors

• Two 5' Park Sections

• Transfer Conveyor

• Inside Powered Conveyor

• 14' Finish Roller

• 60' Outside Non-Powered Conveyor

• 5 Head SL Laser Green Projection System

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Price in US Dollars

Carl Villella, CLFP President, Acceptance Leasing & Financing Service

JHow New Signals From the Fed Will Affect the Component Industry

erome Powell’s late August speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium signals a potential shift in monetary policy that could significantly affect equipment financing for the building component industry. Powell’s remarks, which opened the door to a possible interest rate cut at the Federal Reserve’s next meeting, suggest that the central bank is becoming more concerned with a weakening labor market than with persistent inflation. This shift could lead to lower borrowing costs, directly affecting the cost and availability of equipment financing.

The Jackson Hole Takeaway: A Pivot Towards Easing

In his speech, Powell acknowledged a “curious kind of balance” in the U.S. economy, where the labor market is slowing down even as inflation remains elevated due to factors like new tariffs. He indicated that the Fed may need to adjust its “restrictive” policy stance to prevent further deterioration in employment. Many in the financial markets have interpreted this sentiment as a signal that a rate cut is likely at the next Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting in September. A lower federal funds rate may translate into lower interest rates on loans across the board, including those for equipment financing.

This employment-first approach has immediate implications for equipment-intensive industries such as manufacturing, construction, logistics, and healthcare, which together comprise over 70% of commercial equipment financing. These sectors will benefit from Fed policies designed to preserve employment levels, even at the cost of sustained inflationary pressures, including increased machinery costs resulting from tariffs.

This policy change, against the backdrop of the July 4th passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) which permanently restored 100% bonus depreciation for equipment purchases, has created a massive tax incentive for capital investment. These changes will affect many aspects of the equipment finance industry. For equipment financiers, this creates an unprecedented environment where the traditional relationships between interest rates, equipment values, and replacement cycles face disruption from multiple directions. The Fed’s implicit acceptance that maintaining employment may require tolerating inflation above the 2% target, combined with powerful new tax incentives and tariff-driven cost pressures, fundamentally alters the risk-return equation for equipment finance decisions.

A Broader Industry Perspective: Navigating Economic Headwinds

While a potential rate cut is a major positive, the building component industry continues to face significant challenges that extend beyond the cost of capital. The economic outlook is a mixed bag, with strong growth in certain sectors and continued weakness in others. The residential and broader commercial construction sectors remain subdued, largely due to the lingering effects of high interest rates on home mortgages and a general slowdown in new building projects. In contrast, sectors like infrastructure, manufacturing facilities, and data centers are experiencing strong growth driven by public spending and private investment. The demand for building components from these highgrowth sectors could help offset the sluggishness in residential construction.

A persistent shortage of skilled labor is one of the most significant long-term challenges for the construction industry as a whole. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the industry will need to attract an estimated 439,000 net new workers in 2025 to keep up with demand. This shortage drives up labor costs and can cause project delays, making investments in automation and efficiency-enhancing equipment even more critical. New tariffs on materials like steel, aluminum, and wood have also created price volatility and uncertainty. These tariffs, which are essentially taxes on imported goods, can significantly increase a project’s budget. This risk of rising material costs, coupled with labor shortages, puts immense pressure on manufacturers to find ways to reduce other costs, such as the cost of capital for new equipment.

Conclusion

Jerome Powell’s dovish remarks at Jackson Hole have provided a much-needed potential tailwind for the building component industry. By signaling a likely interest rate cut, the Fed has created an opportunity for manufacturers to lower their cost of borrowing and invest in new equipment. While this is not a panacea for all the industry’s challenges—including a mixed economic outlook, a tight labor market, and rising material costs—it is a critical step that could help companies improve their competitiveness, enhance productivity, and navigate the complex economic environment that lies ahead.

For additional context on the speech, you can view the full video online at Jerome Powell’s speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium

We are Acceptance Leasing and Financing Service, Inc. We were established in 1992, which puts us in our 33rd year of business. We pride ourselves on our Certified Leasing and Financing Professional designation. We are a member of SBCA and a frequent attendee of the BCMC tradeshows. We can provide financing for any new and, regardless of age, used equipment. We invite you to contact us at 412 262-3225 to discuss your particular situation.

Employer <> Candidate No

Recruiting Fees!

Post Your Opportunity Candidates Respond Directly to You! For Additional Information twm@Hiring-Zone.com or Call: 800-289-5627 x1 Visit our website: www.Hiring-Zone.com

2023 2-Head 30 mW LAP Laser System Condition: As-Is, Where-Is Set of (2) 30 mW green Cad-Pro LAP Lasers. Includes mounting brackets, distribution box, projector cables, remote control, and all available system hardware and instructions. 30 mW lasers are better suited to Canadian facilities, but could work in a US location with some additional steps due to regulations.

$39,890 FOB BC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

New Wescana Roof Finish Roller Press

New Wescana roof finish roller presses, available in either a 14ft or 16-ft throat models. Travel speed of 2-ft per second. Both models feature 24″ diameter steel rolls with 3 1/2″ diameter shafts with baffles, (2) 5-horsepower drive gear motors with controlled motor drive systems for starting and stopping, along with taperlock sprockets, sealed flange roller bearings and reversing magnetic starters.. Includes safety shutoff bars, electric eyes, amber running light, red reversing light with buzzer, and e-stop module. 240 / 480 /575 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

www.woodtechsystems.com

Our WALLTEQ automated sheathing station easily integrates into existing lines, increasing productivity and flexibly while reducing rework and labor requirements.

• Fully customizable, software-driven nail patterns with precise nail depth control

• Easy to operate with one-click execution by a single operator

• Versatile fastening options (nailing, stapling, and screwing) within one machine

Replace your multi-function bridge with a WEINMANN.

Multi-function bridges and tables are available for installation as soon as October 2025, so don’t wait. Schedule a call to explore a custom and comprehensive strategy to boost your production and revolutionize your work.

2023 Panels Plus Single-Tool Sheathing Station

Featuring precision Gen. 2 controls, this system squares and sheathes wall panels ranging up to 16′ in length and up to 12′ -3″ wall height with dimensional material from 2×4 through 2×10. This late-model system includes a servodriven bridge with joy-stick controlled motion on the operator’s riding platform. The single, large-coil capacity tool carriage travels across the wall frame inserting sheathing fasteners at the spacing set by the operator. The stitchers will automatically insert fasteners through the sheathing into the top and bottom plates at your chosen spacing during the auto-return process. The bridge has 9 programmable presets for fastener spacing. Other features include: Single Beam Bridge, top and bottom plate stitchers, Operator Platform with Windows industrial touchscreen, and joystick control. Squaring table features a squaring edge, footswitch & push-button controls for telescoping side and horizontal outfeed rollers. 120 PSI at 60 CFM air.120 volt AC electrical required. Utilizes large-coil 15º wire-collated nails. (No nail tools included).

By Maria Sanchez

The Compact Multidirectional Forklift Redefining Material Handling

The name Combilift is known around the globe as a premier manufacturer of forklifts. The company was founded in 1998 when two passionate, experienced, and driven engineers, Robert Moffett and Martin McVicar, pooled their expertise and their shared vision to design the world’s first internal combustion enginepowered, all-wheel drive, multi-directional forklift. Since that time, Combilift has become the largest manufacturer of multidirectional, sideloading, and articulated forklifts in the world, with 100,000 units operating in 85+ countries.

At the heart of Combilift’s success is our ethos: innovation, flexibility, and dedicated customer service. No other manufacturer offers the same level of customization or the ability to tailor solutions to businesses of every size and sector. Never complacent, Martin and Robert remain as passionate about research and new product development as they were when Combilift first began 27 years ago.

Now, we are continuing to set the benchmark in materials handling innovation with the CombiCB155E – a compact, multidirectional electric forklift that’s winning both industry awards and operator loyalty.

With a 15,500 lb lifting capacity, the CB155E stands out as the most compact counterbalance forklift on the market. Its small footprint and lateral movement enable effortless navigation through confined spaces and narrow aisles, making it ideal for transporting long and bulky loads, such as structural timber, roof trusses, or panels – a task that is challenging with traditional forklifts.

The CB155E is not only a solution for saving space but also offers additional benefits, including enhanced safety in your operations and improved operator comfort. This model was recognized with the prestigious ‘Ergonomic Innovation of the Year’ award at the UK Materials Handling Association Awards last September.

The spacious operator cab offers floorto-ceiling panoramic visibility, boosting the operator’s safety and providing exceptional visibility. A standout feature is the Auto Swivel Seat, which intuitively rotates 15° to the left or right based on the forklift’s direction of travel. This significantly reduces strain during reversing maneuvers – a common source of operator fatigue and injury.

Performance on uneven or outdoor terrain is another area where the CB155E excels. The Combi-CB155E is equipped with a gas strut suspension system, commonly found in larger industrial machinery. This advanced suspension, combined with large superelastic tires, ensures a smooth ride over rough or uneven terrain and during extended shifts.

Furthermore, it incorporates Combilift’s independent electric traction system, previous Red Dot award winner, which provides 100% traction control for all front and rear drive wheels. This system eliminates the need for a differential lock on slippery surfaces, reduces load swing, and enhances safety and precision when transporting long, heavy loads, particularly when navigating sideways, regardless of ground conditions.

At the 2025 Red Dot Awards in Essen, Germany, the CB155E captured the attention of the international jury. It was praised for its ergonomic design, sustainability features, and its ability to improve operator wellbeing and productivity in demanding environments – ultimately earning the Red Dot Award for Product Design.

With impressive performance, long battery life, and excellent ergonomics, the Combi-CB155E stands out as the most powerful electric multidirectional forklift available.

For more information on the Combi-CB155E and Combilift’s extensive range of products, please visit Combilift.com or send us a message to learn more about everything we have to offer.

Pointer

Auto Return -Bridge Tilt at Sheathing Seams -Programmable Fastener Patterns -Pop-Up Skatewheel Conveyors

to 12’-5” Wall Heights

Squaring Stops

Floor Rails

• Wall Lengths to 20' / 6' to 12' Wall Heights

• Length Stops Position the Top & Bottom Plates for Nailing (as directed by Wall Panel Design Software output)

• Touch Screen Computer/Enclosure

• 4 Everwin PN80PAL Coil Feed Nail Guns

• Transfers Wall Panels from the Wall Extruder to the Squaring Table STUD EXTRUDER

• Nail C, L, U Sub-Assemblies and Double/Triple Studs

• Touch Screen Computer/Enclosure

• 2 Everwin PN80PAL Coil Feed Nail Guns

• Transfer Sub-Assemblies & Studs to the Wall Extruder Operator

• Squaring the Wall Panel before attaching Sheathing

Fidelity Leasing

$235,000

Consider the BENEFITS of Membership

The MSR Lumber Producers Council (MSRLPC) represents the interests of machine stress rated lumber producers in the manufacturing, marketing, promotion, utilization, and technical aspects of MSR and MEL lumber. Suppliers, customers, and professionals may join as Associate members to enjoy:

• Online Marketing

• Networking Opportunities

• Reliable Market Data

• Education

“There is no question that the MSR Lumber Producers Council meetings are worth your time to attend. The information you will receive from the guest speakers and members of the Council is unparalleled!”

—Sean Kelly,

Automated Products Inc.

From essential components to custom solutions, we’ve got everything you need to build trusses with precision and conﬁdence. Our inventory includes parts for all leading truss jigging tables, OEM replacements, and custom components tailored to your needs. Choose from high-quality materials in custom lengths and widths, including durable plastic, unistrut, and steel.

We work with a nationwide vendor network, ensuring fast delivery. Don’t waste time searching – call us ﬁrst to keep your projects on track.

Dave Walstad - Panama City Beach, FL

Dave.AllPoints@gmail.com

ODesigners are Stirring, But Employers Remain Cautious

ver the past several weeks, recruiting activity in the truss and wall panel design space has picked up in a way that’s hard to ignore. More design professionals are registering at The JobLine and exploring opportunities. The increase is not overwhelming—skilled candidates are still far from abundant—but the rise in volume is noticeable, and the recent activity is palpable. It feels like the labor market is shifting, albeit slowly.

Why More Candidates are Surfacing

Several forces are driving this uptick. Some designers are proactively looking for better opportunities, but many others are being pushed into the market. We are seeing more candidates who have recently been laid off or who are worried about job security at their current employer. Rumors of instability, cost cutting, or restructuring often cause professionals to test the waters early, registering with JobLine before they are forced to make a move.

This growing sense of uncertainty is not confined to one region or company type. Larger component manufacturers with multifamily-heavy portfolios are trimming design staff in some areas, while smaller independents are holding off on expansions until they see more stability in housing demand. That combination creates an atmosphere where even well-established designers feel the need to prepare a backup plan.

The Training Gap is Still Showing

The movement of experienced designers would generally be a positive development for employers, but it highlights a bigger challenge—the lack of new talent entering the industry. Over the past decade, many companies have leaned on offshore estimating and truss design services to meet production needs. While this outsourcing has helped manage an immediate demand, it has also slowed the development of in-house training programs.

The result is that fewer young designers have entered the pipeline, leaving the industry heavily dependent on its existing talent base. When layoffs or job changes occur, the candidates who come forward are almost always seasoned professionals with years of experience. That’s valuable, but it does nothing to solve the long-term shortage of new designers who could carry the industry forward.

Employer Reluctance

Despite the recent increase in candidates, employers are reacting cautiously. Hiring managers are incredibly selective, often waiting for a candidate who matches every item on their checklist. Whether it’s advanced MiTek or Alpine experience, proven multifamily background, or the ability to manage both truss and wall panel design, companies are taking their time and passing over good candidates who don’t check every box.

The hesitation is understandable. The housing market remains uneven, with multifamily starts slowing in many regions and single-family activity showing early signs of recovery. Employers are carefully watching their backlogs before committing to new salaries. Adding to this, U.S. employers are not helping offshore designers immigrate into domestic roles, which narrows the pool even further. Offshore service companies continue to handle entry and basic-level work, but they are no substitute for building long-term design capacity in-house.

A Market in Transition

All of these factors add up to a labor market in transition. Candidate registrations are increasing, but employer confidence hasn’t caught up. Designers are moving either because they see opportunity or because they feel pressure from instability in their current positions. Employers, meanwhile, are staying defensive, reluctant to expand teams until they feel certain about the future.

History tells us that these transitional moments don’t last long. Once a few companies break the ice and begin hiring decisively, others quickly follow. When that happens, the window of availability narrows fast. Skilled designers, even in today’s cautious market, rarely stay on the sidelines for long.

The Lesson for Employers

The takeaway for component manufacturers is clear: the window for adding experienced design talent is open now, but it may not stay open for long. Waiting for the “perfect” candidate or the “perfect” market conditions is a strategy that often results in missed opportunities. Companies that move decisively today can add valuable talent, strengthen their teams, and position themselves for the next cycle of growth.

The component industry has always been defined by cycles—in both construction demand and workforce availability. Right now, the design labor cycle is shifting. The increase in candidates is real, even if it’s not dramatic, and the smartest companies will recognize this moment as an opportunity to add the talent they’ll need when the next upswing comes.

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

$151,995 FOB NY

2019 H & M, MBA Wall Panel Assembly Station

Station includes (1) wall panel combination extruder (model X-Multi) set up with (2) horizontal Paslode Powermaster nail guns and a multi-function bridge including (2) nailing tool holders, a router and vacuum. One carriage on the bridge is equipped with an ITW CW650.7010 sheathing nailer and the other with an ITW S640.5210 staple gun and batten unit. The 7m butterfly station (model X-Tilt) receives panels from the combination extruder for easy flipping. Station builds from 4’-1” to 11’-10” tall wood wall panels to 23’ long, using 2×4, 2×6, 2×8 and 2×10 dimensional lumber.

The Industry-Leading Manufacturer of Panelized Wall Panel & Floor Cassette Equipment.

PLATINUM SERIES AUTOMATED SHEATHING STATION

The Platinum Series Automated Sheathing Station is the most automated sheathing station that Panels Plus offers and reduces the amount of time an operator needs to be hands-on during the sheathing process. This sheathing station is driven using MiTek Software and completely fastens sheathing to studs, blocking, headers, and sill plates to ensure quality panels every time. This model can be a stand-alone unit, or integrated into a larger system. Various sizes and configurations are available.

2007 VIKING 16' X 12' SQUARING TABLE WITH SHEATHING BRIDGE

• 16' x 12' Squaring Table with Powered Width Adjustment & Powered Chain Conveyor

• Wall Panel Lengths up to 16', Wall Panel Heights from 4'-0" to 12'-2"

• Swing Gates at Both Ends of Squaring Table

• Automated Field & Edge Nailing Driving by Panel Pro Event Software & Your Programmed Nailing Patterns

• Simple Touchscreen Controls

• 2 Tool Carriages for Sheathing Nailing with Tilt Function for Seams

• 2 Paslode Nail Guns with High Load Coil Tray

• Auto Sheathing Bridge Return

• Includes 4 Pallets of Magnum Coil Nails (2 3/8 x .113)

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

$29,900 FOB KS. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2022 Prairie Mechatronics 12' Portable Sheathing Bridge

• Programmable Fastener Spacing with PLC Touch Pad Entry

• One Touch Selection for Field or Seam Pattern

• Gun Tilt at Sheathing Seams

• Laser Pointer for Stud Location

• Sensors to Detect Sheathing

• Nail/Staple 8' Wall in 6 to 8 Seconds

• Quick Tool Changeout

• Weight: 150 Lbs

• Extra Gun Mounts & Spare Parts

• Excludes Nail or Staple Guns

• 120 Volt / 1 Phase

• Includes Custom Pneumatic Supports (adjustable from 35" to 47" above floor)

• 1 Available at $18,500 NOW $14,500 Each

& Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Design Connections

Optimism, Pessimism, and Missed Opportunities in Our Industry

In this business, timing is everything. Whether you’re running a component manufacturing company or looking for your next job opportunity, the question often comes down to this: are you a buyer or are you a seller?

A few years ago, my son-in-law’s family—who’ve run a successful heavy truck sales business for decades—was faced with that exact question. For most of their history, they operated a single location with a loyal customer base, solid returns, and a stable business model. Then, the manufacturer they represent gathered all similarly sized dealers from across North America and delivered a clear message: either you’re buying or you’re selling—but you can’t stay the same size. It was a wake-up call. Grow significantly through expansion and acquisition or prepare to be acquired.

My son-in-law’s family chose to expand, acquiring several similar-sized competitors in the region. That decision may not be best for everyone, but it was the right one for them. It took optimism, planning, and a willingness to embrace change—but it positioned them for long-term success in a shifting market.

That moment stuck with me. It wasn’t just about trucks—it was about mindset, about recognizing when the status quo isn’t enough, and having the courage to act before the market forces your hand.

The View from Both Sides

Companies: Waiting for the Green Light

I’ve seen it time and again. A company watches the housing market, sees a few promising signs, and starts thinking about hiring. But then they hesitate. “Let’s wait until we’re really busy,” they say. “Let’s make sure the uptick is real.”

And then the uptick is real—and they’re not ready.

By the time they post the job, interview candidates, and get someone trained, the backlog is already out of control. Designers are swamped, mistakes creep in, and the opportunity to grow smoothly has turned into a scramble to catch up.

Hiring in anticipation of growth—not just in reaction to it—can make all the difference. Yes, it’s a risk. But so is doing nothing.

Job Seekers: Playing It Safe

On the flip side, I’ve talked to designers who are itching for something new. They want to grow, take on more responsibility, maybe even relocate. But they’re hesitant. “What if it’s not the right fit?” “What if the company doesn’t grow like they say they will?”

So, they stay put. Comfortable, but maybe stuck.

Meanwhile, the company they passed on finds someone else—someone willing to take the leap—and that person ends up thriving. They grow with the company, take on new roles, and become part of something exciting.

I’m not saying you should jump at every offer. But if you wait for a guarantee, you might miss the chance to be part of building something great.

Optimism vs. Pessimism

There’s a balance to be struck between optimism and realism. Blind optimism can lead to poor decisions. But constant pessimism? That can paralyze you.

Whether you’re a company or a candidate, ask yourself: are you making decisions based on fear, or on potential? Are you waiting for the market to prove itself before you act? Or are you positioning yourself to be ready when it does?

Final Thoughts

I’ve been in this industry long enough to know that nothing is ever certain. But I’ve also seen that the people and companies who lean into opportunity—who prepare for growth before it’s obvious—are the ones who come out ahead.

So, are you a buyer or a seller? Are you optimistic enough to take a calculated risk, or are you waiting for someone else to make the first move?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you taken a chance that paid off? Or waited too long and missed the boat? Drop me a line—I’m always up for a good conversation about how we grow in this business.

If you want help finding that next perfect component designer or design job in Canada, please contact me. If your work is in the mass timber world anywhere in North America, I’d love to talk to you about connecting you to that next great job or candidate. You can reach me at secord@ thejobline.com, or 800-289-5627 ext. 2. I’m also happy to engage at: LinkedIn.com/in/geordiesecord www.thejobline.com

Component Warning Notice Tags

Component manufacturers have a duty to warn installers about the safety risks associated with the handling and installation of trusses and components.

To help component manufacturers in their duty to warn, SBCA has created the Component Warning Notice (CWN) and corresponding website: componentwarningnotice.com.

In addition to the Component Warning Notice Sheet being included in every standard SBCA Jobsite Package, SBCA has created a Component Warning Notice Tag to direct installers to the important information contained on the website.

pubs.sbcacomponents.com to order today.

Unlike other SBCA tags, which are typically applied to trusses and components under certain circumstances, the CWN Tag is intended for application on every truss and component sent to a jobsite.

Equipment Wanted!

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

• Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press Contact Wasserman & Associates for a Fair Market Value

Fitzgerald Group, LLC

Not producing the results you need or want – getting conflicting info about what to do and the equipment and the systems you may need? Before you Buy - Ask yourself –do I need a salesman or a guide?

If you want an Independent Guide that has your bottom-line results as the #1 priority, Call Me. If the salesman will do - we'll talk later...

Also, don't let Financing Deals influence your best solution. FitzGroup can arrange – Zero down & No payments for 90 Days!

HANDLE BAR ROUTER

The Handlebar Router is a low-cost option for those who don’t want to purchase a routing bridge.

The Handlebar Router is used in conjunction with the Squaring Station and Combo Station. Two operators hold the handlebars on either end to cut out rough openings. The extended control arm allows operators to reach panel edges without having to climb on top of the panel.

This product features a 3.25 HP router with a plunge bit. The Handlebar Router has router power control on both ends, so both operators are able to turn the router on and off.

Visit our website at www.panplus.com for more details!

DO SOMETHING BRILLIANT WITHOUT HAVING TO BANG YOUR HEAD AGAINST THE WALL.

Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack . This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

ProStack

By: DAK Automation

Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So, free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. Contact us to learn more today. For a ProStack demonstration video, scan the QR code below.

• Model SRDE6.5 Stock Reel

• Model RS35-4-12" Roller Straightener

• Model FR5-12 Feed Roll

• Hydraulic Press System with Three Feature Dies (36" Feeds)

• 22' Powered Entry Conveyor

• M odel 420 STR Rollformer (10 Forming Stations)

• Roll Tooling

• Beck Automation Controller

• Citronix CIJ Ink Jet Printer

• 3 5/8" and 6" R-Stud

• Coil Inventory

• Refer ence Uploaded PDF for Additonal Details & Layout

By MiTek Staff

ARepetitive Member Increase (Cr) and Additional Repetitive Increase

Repetitive Member Increase (Cr) in truss design accounts for the load-sharing and composite action that occurs when multiple members, connected by load-distributing elements, act together as a system.

This is an adjustment to allowable stresses of multiple members (like trusses, joists, rafters, or studs) that share the same load together, rather than supporting this load as individual members. If one member is slightly weaker or more heavily loaded, adjacent members can help carry the excess load, reducing the likelihood of failure in any single member. The probability of all members being at their weakest strength simultaneously is low and this statistical redundancy allows for a modest increase in allowable stresses. This concept is recognized in design standards such as the National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction and ANSI/TPI 1 (National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction).

Per ANSI/TPI 1 section 6.4.2 Repetitive member design values apply to all Truss chord members where three or more Trusses are positioned side by side, are in contact, or are spaced no more than 24 inches on center and are joined by roof sheathing, flooring, gypsum, or other load distributing elements attached directly to the chords, as follows:

(a) For solid sawn lumber members to which structural wood sheathing is mechanically attached: use the repetitive member design value listed in the recognized lumber grading rules, or 15 percent increase to Fb and 10 percent increase to Fc, Ft and Emin

(b) For solid sawn lumber members to which structural wood sheathing is not attached: use the repetitive member design value listed in the recognized lumber grading rules, or 10 percent repetitive member design value increase to Fb, Fc, Ft and Emin

(c) For Structural Composite Lumber: repetitive member design values shall be limited to no more than a 4 percent increase to Fb and no (zero) increase to other allowable design values.

Where Fb – Bending Stress, Fc – Compression Stress, Ft – Tension Stress, and Emin – Modulus of Elasticity.

The repetitive member increase permits up to a 15 percent increase in some allowable stresses. This means that some trusses with slightly overstressed lumber may not require lumber upgrades, if the repetitive member increase is applicable.

For example, a run of three or more common trusses spaced at a maximum 24 inches on center and joined by roof sheathing could use the repetitive member increase. However, a one- or two-ply girder truss that carries these common trusses would not qualify for the use of repetitive member increase because a girder truss that supports other trusses does not share the same loading with adjacent trusses. Per ANSI/TPI 1 section 6.4.2.2, single-ply and two-ply girder trusses are not permitted to use the repetitive member increase. In contrast, girder trusses with three or more plies may take advantage of the increase. Whether the members are attached to each other or spaced up to 24 inches, as long as they share the same load, a repetitive member increase is applicable.

Section 7.5.3.7 of ANSI/TPI 1-2022 introduces a new provision, Additional Repetitive Increase, which allows the bending stress in trusses with three or more plies to be further increased when the ply-to-ply connection capacity is at least 2.1 pounds per square inch (psi). The amount of the increase varies depending on the number of plies and the lumber grade:

7.5.3.7.1 Visually Graded Chords.

Trusses with 3 plies: 1.17

Trusses with 4 or more plies: 1.22

7.5.3.7.2 MSR/MEL Chords.

Trusses with 3 plies: 1.09

Trusses with 4 or more plies: 1.13

When the Additional Repetitive Increase is used, it helps to reduce the CSI of the applicable chord members, but the ply-to-ply fastening schedule must be adjusted to meet the 2.1 psi requirement. Additional Repetitive Increase can only be applied when the standard Repetitive Member Increase is also applicable.

For additional information, or if you have questions, please refer to ANSI/TPI 1-2022 or contact the MiTek Engineering department.

Wall Panel Lift

* 8’- 12’ Wall Height

* 1,000 LB Capacity

* Easy Adjustment

* Hoist and Crane Sold Separate

Handle Bar Router

* 8’ - 12’ Wall Height

* 2 Person Operation

* 3 ¼ hp Production Router

* 120 Volt /1 Phase/15 Amp

Lay-Up Tables

* 10’ x 10’ Working Area

* Lift & Extend Rollers

* Squaring Lip

* Nail Tray

Skate Rollers

* 15’ Standard Length

* Adjustable Height

* Sturdy Stands

* Custom Lengths Available

$13,900.00

$3,500.00 $3,000.00 $1,950.00

New Component Table with Skatewheel Conveyors

Lift & Extend Skatewheel Conveyors. 10' x 10' Work Area with Squaring Lip. Gun Holster & Nail Tray.

$13,900 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• 8' to 12' Wall Heights

• 1,000 Lb Capacity

• Weight: 120 Lbs

• Excludes: Electric Hoist & Freestanding Bridge Crane

$1,950 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

New Panels Plus Wall Panel Framing Equipment

Consider Panels Plus wall panel assembly equipment for manufacturers of wood or steel wall panels, floor-panels, and related framing components. Panels Plus is an employee owned, ISO certified, manufacturing company that builds state-of-the-art equipment featuring durable construction, with fit and finish second to none in the structural building component industry. The referenced base framing table allows you to assemble from 7-12 foot wall heights, at industry standard 16 foot lengths, at a working height of 29 to 32 inches. This framer design includes controls at each end of table, squaring stops and pneumatic clamping for consistent wall panel quality. Frames 2x4 or 2 x 6 walls, with color-coded, steel stud locators at 16 and 24 inches O.C. spacing. Includes pop-up skate wheels for easy transfer of completed wall frame. Framing table can be configured to receive wall framing light bars, other options include custom buildable wall heights, lengths and auto-indexing of optional 2 or 3 tool carriages.

Additionally from Panels Plus are sheathing tables with features that include foot pedal control at squaring end of table, with squaring stops, roller conveyors at both sides, single pendant controls for bridge, tool spacing at 6 inch centers with 3 inch bridge shift for offset nailing. Tool bridges can accommodate from 2 x 4 to 2 x 8 walls, with seam tilt being standard equipment Panels Plus Tool Bridges are available with single beam or dual beam design for two different tool mounts on one bridge. Squaring stations, sub-component tables, conveyors and panel lifts are also available to complete the configuration of the wall panel assembly line. Price includes factory installation and training. 50 CFM at 120 psi air. 120 or 230 volt, 1 phase electrical.

765-751-9990

ProStack Wall Panel Tilt In-Feed Conveyor

Solving the problem of missed fasteners on exterior sheathing remains one of the primary reasons for call back charges and exceptions noted during jobsite building inspections. Clearly finding and resolving missed fasteners or “shiners” becomes mission critical before a sheathed wall panel leaves the production line. Our shop-proven, tilting conveyor makes the process safe, fast, and labor efficient. The ProStack tilt in-feed safely lifts wall segments to 45º in 5 seconds for inspection and on to 75º for easy to reach repairs. This tilt system is also excellent for installing blocking , windows, and other details in your wall panel segments. More information click here. 72,657 FOB ND

$37,525 FOB ND

ProStack Wall Panel In-Feed Conveyor

ProStack powered in-feed conveyor was engineered to deliver wall panel segments at a matched speed and height into the ProStack automated wall panel stacker. Built for smooth operation and assembled with laser cut, powder-coated finish steel. Base model conveys wall panel segments up to 12’ in height and up to 16’ in length for wall segments up to 1,600 lbs. Extended length systems come in standard 20′ and 24’ length capacity. All models come with adjustable working heights and variable conveyor speeds.

Powered in-feed conveyor section, synchronized chain drive under top and bottom plate for open access, 5-HP, 208v, 3Ph power. Adjustable working height from 28” to 34”. 16′ length capacity.

New Wall Panel Lift

Panels Plus LightGauge-Steel Framing Station

2021 Panels Plus light gauge steel (LGS) framing station, builds steel stud wall panels from 6′-9″ to 16′-0″ heights, from 1′-0″ to 20′-0″ long. Includes four (4) Graber SuperDrive tools with mounts, two tools per dolly, adjustable top and bottom plate stops, squaring stops and pop up conveyors. 110 volt, 1 phase, 30 Amp electrical required. 80 PSI at 10 CFM air required. $71,993 NOW $59,000 FOB PA

By Simpson Strong-Tie Staff

Truss Design – Working with Obstructions

With the Component Solutions® Truss Studio™ design software, you can draw areas on a layout which allow you to block out a specific area, preventing newly created trusses from passing through the designated obstruction area. These obstruction spaces (designated as cube shapes) can accommodate areas such as forced air units (FAUs), recessed lighting, shower pans, decks, ductwork, mechanical wells, hallways, chimneys, and attic access. Within the Truss Studio software, you can do the following.

1. Go to Regions > Obstructions or click the Obstructions icon.

2. Select the first point for drawing the obstruction. Press the space bar before selecting the point to offset it. You can also use Ctrl and drag to draw/position the rectangle.

In the example, when the space bar is pressed, the Offset Point dialog displays and you can enter the exact Relative X and Relative Y position for the obstruction.

3. Enter the X and Y values and click OK. The Obstruction dialog displays.

There are several different opening types you can create:

• Attic/Chase (Framed Opening): Useful for floor chases and roof attics

• Web Around: Useful for ductwork

• Prevent Truss Placements: Useful for recessed lighting, attic access, chimneys

• Profile Around : Useful for coffered ceilings, shower pans, mechanical wells, and decks

You can also edit obstructions in the Properties pane.

Attic/Chase (Framed Opening)

This feature is useful for creating chase openings in floor trusses and attic openings in roof trusses.

1. On the Obstructions dialog, select Attic/Chase (Framed Opening) from the Type dropdown list. Make any additional changes to Depth, Elevation, and Label and click OK.

Notes:

• You can enter a negative number in the Elevation field.

• Labels are not required but may be helpful in identifying different obstructions on the layout. Obstruction labels can be moved using the Drag Annotations command.

2. Click OK to display the obstruction and label on the layout.

3. View the layout in 3D view to see the placement of the obstruction.

4. Add a truss for the attic.

The obstruction is honored, and the truss is created with the attic opening.

Edit

the Attic Obstruction

1. Use the Attic command to edit the attic obstruction.

2. Uncheck the Automatic from Layout option so that the Attic settings are editable.

3. Make edits to the attic space.

In the example, the height was adjusted to Auto, attic loading was removed, and mechanical loading was applied.

4. Click Save and OK to apply your changes.

The collar tie is raised above the obstruction.

Web Around (Phase 1)

This option is commonly used for ductwork. This is the first phase of the Web Around feature; future releases will provide additional enhancements.

1. On the Obstructions dialog, select Web Around from the Type dropdown list. Make any additional changes to Depth, Elevation, and Label and click OK.

2. Select the first point for drawing the obstruction. Press the space bar before selecting the point to offset it. You can also use Ctrl and drag to draw/position the rectangle.

The duct obstruction displays on the layout.

3. Add a truss.

4. Open the truss in Design view.

The truss interferes with the duct obstruction and when you analyze the truss, a message displays.

5. For this release, you can manually edit the truss to avoid the obstruction. Future releases will automatically perform this function.

Prevent Truss Placements

This feature is useful for recessed lighting, attic access, and chimneys.

This example shows how to prevent truss placements in obstructions created for recessed lighting.

1. On the Obstructions dialog, select Prevent Truss Obstructions from the Type dropdown list. Make any additional changes to Depth, Elevation, and Label and click OK.

2. Select the first point for drawing the obstruction. Press the space bar before selecting the point to offset it. You can also use Ctrl and drag to draw/ position the rectangle.

The obstruction displays on the layout.

Note: You can easily copy and paste the obstruction to make multiple obstructions on the layout. See Copy Command.

3. Select the obstruction to copy.

4. From the General menu, select Copy Selected or click the icon.

5. Select the origin point and select where you want to move the item.

The item is duplicated at the selected location.

6. Repeat this process to copy and place multiple obstructions. You remain in the Copy command until you exit by clicking Esc.

When you add trusses, they do not pass into the defined obstruction space.

Profile Around

Use this feature to profile trusses around a defined obstruction. This feature can be useful when creating a coffered ceiling, mechanical well, shower pan, and decks.

1. On the Obstructions dialog, select Profile Around from the Type dropdown list. Make any additional changes to Depth, Elevation, and Label and click OK.

2. Select the first point for drawing the obstruction. Press the space bar before selecting the point to offset it. You can also use Ctrl and drag to draw/position the rectangle.

The obstruction displays on the layout.

3. Add a truss.

The truss profiles around the obstruction.

Coffered Ceiling Example

In the example, a coffered ceiling is created using this obstruction type.

1. Define settings in the Obstruction dialog.

2. Click OK.

The coffered ceiling obstruction displays on the layout.

When you add trusses, they profile around the coffered ceiling.

Mechanical Well Example

1. Adjust the dialog settings to create a mechanical well obstruction.

2. Click OK.

The obstruction is created.

Create Shower Pan and Deck Area

You can use the Profile Around obstruction to create shower pans and deck areas.

1. On the Obstructions dialog, select Profile Around from the Type dropdown list. Make any additional changes to Depth, Elevation, and Label and click OK.

2. Select the first point for drawing the obstruction. Press the space bar before selecting the point to offset it. You can also use Ctrl and drag to draw/position the rectangle.

The obstruction displays on the layout.

3. Create a floor truss in the shower area. In this example, a deck area was also created.

The floor truss displays on the layout and is profiled around the shower pan.

The truss also has a step-down to accommodate the shower pan.

The truss near the deck is also profiled around the deck area.

Notes: You can edit any of these obstructions in the Properties pane. You can enable/disable obstructions in the Layers and Filters menus.

Edit Obstructions in the Properties Pane

When you select an obstruction in a layout, its properties display in the Properties pane.

You can edit the properties and immediately view the changes on the layout.

To change the colors of obstructions in the layout, use the Color Settings dialog. You can also edit colors on the Properties pane.

Benefits of working with obstructions:

• Easily define and display obstruction spaces on a layout to block out specific areas.

• Obstructions prevent newly created trusses from passing through the designated obstruction area.

• Truss webbing automatically adjusts to avoid interference with obstructions.

• Display obstructions in reports.

Simpson Strong-Tie’s Component Solutions® Truss Studio™ and CS Director™ software solutions have the ability to support your projects. Contact your Simpson Strong-Tie Representative or email CSHelp@strongtie.com for more information.

• Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyor

• Powered Height Adjustment (6'-11" to 12'-5" wall heights)

• Fixed Squaring Stops

• Excludes Tool Dollies

• 110 Volt / 20 Amps

• Add $6,000 for Stud Locators at 16" & 24" O.C.

• Add $2,750 for 1 Pair of 15' Skatewheel Conveyor with Stands

• Add $11,900 for Sub-Component Layup Tables with Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyors

• EQUIPMENT FINANCING available from SLS Financial Services $38,750 FOB NE

2021 Panels Plus Light-Gauge-Steel Framing Station

2021 Panels Plus light gauge steel (LGS) framing station, builds steel stud wall panels from 6′-9″ to 12′-3″ heights, from 1′-0″ to 20′0″ long. includes four (4) Graber SuperDrive tools with mounts, two tools per dolly, adjustable top and bottom plate stops, squaring stops and pop up conveyors. 110 volt, 1 phase, 30 Amp electrical required. 80 PSI at 10 CFM air required.

$71,993 NOW $59,000

ProStack Wall Panel Stacker

Reduced labor, increased safety, the benefits just keep stacking up. Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack. This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

Developed for commercial wall panel production facilities this is the remarkable ProStack, fully automated wall panel stacker. The ProStackrelieves your build team from creating a stack of wall panels and keeps them building walls instead. Stacks 2×4 through 2×8 walls up to 20′ in length and up to 12′ in height (taller by special order). The ProStack will automatically center or left or right justify each layer including multiple wall segments on the same layer. For ease of loading in your yard or on the build site, fork pockets are created in two ways: The operator can attach blocking up to 5″ tall to the last wall of the stack prior to entering the stacker, or two shorter walls can be spread apart prior to the second to last row of the stacker. Designed without any overhead frame or apparatus, so no crane inspections are required. The ProStack is “event driven”, so there is no need to read a file. Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. ProStack can even operate with your existing powered conveyors or select our optional matching conveyors (see the video shown below). 208 volt, 3 phase, 43 Amp base model electrical required. No air required. Footprint is 26′-5″L x 19′-3″W.

2022 Peterbilt 579 S/A Day Cab Truck #1

Paccar MX-13 / 12.9L / 405 HP Engine

249,300 Miles / 5,566 Engine Hours

Auto Transmission

Engine Brake

12,000 Lb Front Axle / 22,700 Lb Rear Axle

/ 34,700 Lb GVWR

Air Trac Air Ride Suspension

148 Inch Wheelbase

Dual Fuel Tanks

Tires are Very Good

$35,000 FOB PA

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2021 Big John Extendable Pole Truss Trailer

Extendable pole trailer

Used for 60' span roof trusses, peak down Retracted length - 35'. O.A.

Extended length - 45' O.A.

Adjustable 2' Increments

Outer tube frame - 8" square tube

Inner tube frame - 6" square tube

Axles - (2) 25,000 LB Capacity Each Axle width -102"

Anti-lock brake system

Parking brakes on both axles

Wheels - 10 stud outboard drums

Tires - 11 R 22.5 radials

Rims - 22.5 steel unimount (8) alum wheels

Suspension - Watson air ride with dump valve

Landing gear - 2 speed

Bumper - standard

Lights - DOT Specs, LED Package (2) truss stands (4) winches with straps

$29,900 NOW $17,500 FOB SC

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2016 Precision 50-70′ stretch roll off trailer

Features sliding tandem axle, fifth wheel connection, locking rollers, ABS brakes, and hydraulic lift neck. This trailer does have a current DOT inspection. Estimated 50% tire tread remaining.

$28,990 FOB WI Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster

36-51 ft Stretch Trailer (OR-1)

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 36′51′ – Lakeside trailer features 5th-wheel connection, sliding tandem axle, locking rollers and hydraulic lift neck. Current DOT inspection September 2023. 50% brakes and 50% tire tread remains. 26,000 GVWR

$28,997 NOW $21,997 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2005 Rayfab 32′ Roll Off Trailer

32′ Rayfab trailer features 5th wheel connection, locking rollers, straps, a 10,000 lb axle, electric brakes, spring suspension, and 2 speed landing gear. Manufacturer states the lightweight trailer is ideal for oneton trucks. Trailer weighs approximately 5,420 lbs. DOT expired February 2025.

$7,990 FOB OH

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2019 Landoll 48-ft Roll-off Trailer

2019 Landoll 48′ Roll-off Trailer with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), sliding tandem axles, spring suspension, rollers: Galvanized 6″ x 95 5/8″ tube, Rear 15 rollers @ 24″ O.C., front 6 rollers @ 36″ O.C. Hydraulic Lift neck with a Honda 13 h.p generator and onboard battery, Roller Locks: 2-Zone (front and rear) Air-powered, Controls: Mounted roadside at landing gear, galvanized 15″ dia. ground rollers, LED lighting, Straps: Sliding winches complete with straps to curb-side “J-hooks”, Air-powered fold-away Galvanized under-ride bumper, Mud Flaps behind tandem. Black powder-coated finish. Current DOT inspection as of 24 June ’25.

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

(Shown with Optional Headache Rack)

• Sources for MSR Lumber

Filter by species, grade and dimension to locate products from MSRLPC members.

• Educational Resources

Find helpful information for current and potential MSR lumber users.

• NEW! Design Values

Comparison Tool

Compare MSR lumber reference design values with visually graded dimensional lumber by species. The MSRLPC website is a

to make informed purchasing decisions as well as those exploring design optimization with MSR Lumber. Check it out!

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 48-ft Rolloff Trailer

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 48-ft rolloff trailer features 5th-wheel connection, sliding tandem axle, locking split rollers, and hydraulic lift neck. Current DOT inspection valid through 1 October 2025. 60% brakes remaining. Six tires at 50% tread remaining and two tires at 40% tread remaining. 68,000 GVWR.

$11,997 NOW $8,9978 FOB IA As-is, Where-is Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2004 Lakeside 42 to 60-ft Stretch Rolloff Trailer

2004 Lakeside 42-60′ stretch roll off trailer features hydraulic lift, locking rollers, sliding tandem, ABS brakes, and a fifth wheel neck. Six tires have 75% tread remaining and two tires have 50%. 68,000 GVWR. Iowa DOT inspection valid until October 2025.

$26,997 NOW $22,997 FOB IA Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2014 Precision 48′ Roll Off Trailer (R157)

2014 Precision 48′ roll off trailer features tandem axle, fifth wheel connection, locking rollers, ABS brakes, and hydraulic lift neck.

Estimated 50% tire tread remaining.

$17,990 FOB WI Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1990 Wabash 48' - 77' Roll off trailer

• Certified for highway

• 70% rubber

• New 5th wheel

• Newer undercarriage

• New rear bumper

• New wiring

• Annual inspection report completed on 9/19/24 - good for 1 year.

Asking $19,500 NOW $17,500

M.P.B. Builders 920-748-2601

www.mpbbuilders.com

2021 Big John Extendable Truss Pole Trailer

2021 Big John peak down extendable pole trailer. Transports up to 60′ peak down trusses with a retracted length of 35 ft. O.A., and an extended length of 45 ft. O.A. Adjustable in up to 2 ft. increments. Outer tube frame is 8″ sq. tub and inner frame is 6″ sq. tub. Features 2 axles with anti-lock brake system and parking brakes on both axles. Trailer features air ride suspension with dump valve and 2 speed landing gear.

$23,890 NOW $17,490 FOB NC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

IN-STOCK Truss Trailers

(T-1410)

(T-1411)

(T-1412) - Headache Rack - $70,3111

42’-60’ (T-1405) - Headache Rack - $70,3111 42’-60’ (T-1407) - Headache Rack - $70,3111

GOOSENECK TRUSS TRAILERS

Used - 2014, R157 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

Tandem Axles | Air Ride Suspension : Air Operated Load Control, Air Operated Pin

$17,500 NOW $10,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com/equipment/ trailers

Used - 2014, R156 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

$17,500 NOW $10,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com/equipment/ trailers

•

• 4

•

• 3

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

1993 JDH Trussmaster 48'-70' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Fixed Tandem

• Spring Suspension

• Roller Locks

• Winches & Straps

• Headache Rack

• Tires are Good (less than 5,000 miles on tires)

• DOT is Current

• Video available upon request

$19,900 NOW $13,900 FOB IN Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

• Bed Length: 36'

• GVWR: 26,000 Lbs

• Battery Operated Hydraulic Tilt

• Electric Brakes

• Locking Rollers

• Trailer Inspection is current

• One location needs steel plate/weld repair (reference photo)

$19,900 NOW $10,900 FOB PA Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

• Foam Filled Tires

• Cummins

• 4,350

Several

Each or $24,000 for Both Trailers

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

1995 ASI 48'-70' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Slanted Profile

• No Hydraulic Lift (has been removed)

• Fixed Tandems

• Spring Suspension

• New Landing Gear and New Springs/ Shackles on the rear axles within the last year

• Tires are Good (4 new tires in Summer of 2024)

• Roller Locks

• Headache Rack

DOT is current (February 2025)

$12,800 NOW $9,980 FOB WI Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Precision

Roll Off Trailer (R156) 2014 Precision 48′

off trailer features tandem axle, fifth wheel connection, locking rollers, ABS brakes, and hydraulic lift neck. Estimated 50% tire tread remaining. $17,990 FOB WI Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1990 Wabash 48'-68' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Slanted Profile

• Hydraulic D ovetail (No Hydraulic Front End)

• Fixed Tandems

• Roller Locks

Contained Power Unit | (1) Heachache Rack

$27,500 NOW $25,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com/equipment/ trailers

• Painted, New Brakes and New Roller Bearings in 2019

• Last Used in 2020

$8,750 FOB ND Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Subcomponent Assembler

Triad's proprietary (Patent Pending) Ai means:

•Your operatordoesn't wastetimetelling themachine whatkindofsubcomponentisbeingbuilt,

• ORwhatsizedimensionallumberisbeingused,

• ORwhatnailpatterntoswitchtoOR toolgun(s)touse.

• Youcanswitchfrombuildingonetypeofsubcomponent toanother instantly!

• Just-in-timesubcomponentsarenowareality -OR batchbuildsubcomponents--yourchoice!

Triad's unique outfeed conveyor:

• Cansendfinishedsubcomponentsinany oneof threedirections: Left, Right, orDowntheline.

• Nowyoucan sort &feed:Toyour component table, framing table,ANDmaterialhandling carts, ifdesired!

2005 Precision Equipment 50'-70' Stretch Roll-Off Trailer

• Hydraulic Lift

• Sliding Tandems

• Air Ride Suspension

• Roller Locks

• Roller Brakes

• Headache Rack

$26,900 FOB CO Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2023 Triad Flow Through Component Nailer

• Assembles Trimmers, Partition Leads, Corners, Headers, Ells, Jack Studs

• Length Capacity: 10'-2"

• Clamp Opening: 3" x 3" to 12" x 12"

• Vertical & Horizontal Clamping Pressure: 300 Lbs at 100 PSI

• Foot Pedal Control

• On/Off Switches for Each Nail Gun

• Pop-Up Stop

• Nail Trays

• 10' Infeed & 10' Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

• Excludes Nail Guns

$19,900 FOB ON Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com Price Reduction!

•

• 2 Pairs available at $7,500 NOW $6,500 Each Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Champion Valve Plus Compressor Champion Valve Plus – Reciprocating twostage compressor, model 7.5–V80E, with Eaton controls, 7.5 HP motor, 80 gal vertical tank, rated for 22 cfm @ 175 PSI. 208/230/ 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$2,495 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2023 Atlas Copco Compressor in Container Housing

2023 Atlas Copco type G7FF rotary screw compressor with internal dryer and external tank. Compressor capacity is 145 PSI, has a 10 HP motor, external air tank includes bleed valve and manual output valve. System comes contained in a custom shipping container with locking entry door, thermostat controlled electric fans, throughwall induction vent grills, interior lighting, electrical panel and utilities for a second compressor. Container size is 8′ width x 10′-6″ long x 8′-8″ height. Hours as of 19 September ’24 were 986. 480 volt, 3 phase / 120VAC electrical required.

$34,490 FOB AZ

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• 200' Travel Length (can be split into two 100' systems)

• 2 Each - 35' Span Gantry Bridges with 1 Ton Harrington Electric Hoists

• 20' Height

• Internal Electric Bus Bar (eliminates festoon system)

• Assembles Trimmers, Jacks, L’s, Channels & Headers

• 2x4 and 2x6 Capacity

• Remote Fire & 3-Way Clamping

• Staggered or Straight Line Nail Pattern

• Squaring Stop

• Foot Pedal Control

• Reserve Air Tank

• 5’ Infeed & Outfeed Roller Conveyor $29,800 FOB NE

Electrical Supply: 110 VAC

Motor: 1/4 HP, 110 VAC, Linear Actuator

Highly Accurate: +/- .010 Inches

Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4 Aluminum Extrusion

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

Internal Components: Hardened, Ground and Polished Steel and Billet Aluminum

Dimensions:

Length: 5 feet (60”) to 60 feet (720”)

Height: 12 inches

Depth: 12 inches

If you are looking for the fastest, mist consistent way to measure and cut your product, then the Hain Measuring System (MEA) is your answer. The MEA changes from one length t any length instantly, up to 60’, without changing the operator’s position on the line. It is also highly accurate (+- .010) and quickly moves from one length to the next in seconds. The MEA is designed for quick and easy setup and is simple to use. Even a first time user will be productive with little or no training required. It can adapt to any saw and can be mounted to any surface so that you can integrate the MEA with your existing setup. The MEA is versatile allowing “left” or “right” handed operation and measurement in “feet and inches” or “inches” depending on your preference. The MEA is also available in a “Skid Mounted” version.

MISC.

Alpine Lumber Carousel

• 7 Bunk Capacity (up to 12' Lumber)

• Pushbutton Control Station

• 10 HP / 3 Phase Motor

• In working condition when removed in August 2023

$11,900 FOB Manitoba Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

New Monet Power Deck Infeed Decks Heavy-duty, 5-chain feed system to bring material to the infeed of the component saw. 16′ wide x 20′ long x 36″ high. Transfers 6′ to 20′ lumber lengths. Option for 6-arm Power Deck available at an additional cost.

Features auto-feed advance, foot pedal override forward and reverse, variable speed control, double bearing construction, softstart and soft-stop and e-stop cable. Base price shown. 480 volt, 3 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. (Prices start at $31,000.)

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

SL-Laser Model ProDirector 7 Projection System

Improved model ProDirector 7, green-color laser projection system from SL-Laser. Projects roof truss, floor truss and wall panel design images accurately onto building surface for faster setup and fabrication times. New employees are productive more quickly, with less training required. Each laser head provides 21′ projection length (at 15-foot ceiling heights). New model PD7 projector heads are smaller in size than previous models, have diodes that are easier than ever to swap out and maintain, and project an even clearer line onto the building surface.

System includes projector heads, cables, mounting hardware for attachment to customer’s structure, factory installation, training, and options for computer controls. Works with each connector plate manufacturer’s design software. Modular nature of the laser heads allows for easy future expansion of system length. 120 volt, 1 phase.

FOB NC

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

• Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press Contact Wasserman & Associates for a Fair Market

Value Assessment of your Used Equipment

Operational, Needs Work, and Parts Only equipment will be considered!

New ASI Ink Jet Plate Marker

• Automated Wall Panel Parts Cutting & Marking as directed by Wall Panel Design Software Output

• 20' Roller Conveyor with Servo Motor Controlled Length Stop/Plate Pusher

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor

• 24" Lenovo Touch Screen Computer (Windows 11 Pro OS)

• ASI Bas ic L Plate Cutting/Marking Operating Software

• 4 Head Ink Jet Plate Marker (marks 2 plates on edge)

• 110 Volt / 1 Phase

• Includes Onsite Installation & Training

• Excludes Saw & Dust Collector

• Approximately $50,000 USD with DeWalt Sliding Miter Saw including Freight, Customs Brokerage Fees & Installation

• Other Saw Options Include: Existing Saws, ASI Radial Arm Saw, Lauderdale Hamilton Up Cut Saw & Vista Angle Boss Saws

• Video available upon request

MISC.

EMSI Teeter Cart

Width – 46” / Length – 73” / Load Capacity – 2850 pounds / Pneumatic tires – 14.5 inch / Maximum utility in truss plants, panel plants, and lumber yards / Quick Assembly by bolting parts together / All hardware is supplied / Upright 2 x 4’s not supplied / Medium duty tires rated at 1500 lbs each are included.

Call for Price

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

Used - Quincy 25 Horsepower Screw Compressors (2x)

Taken from service | Optional: Refrigerated Air Dryer - $500 $3500 each Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

2018 Wasserman Sub-Component Nailer

• Assembles Trimmers, Jacks, Corners, Ells, Partition Leads, Channels & Headers

• 2x4 and 2x6 Capacity (double pass on headers to 2x10)

• Remote Fire & 3-Way Clamping

• Staggered or Straight Line Nail Pattern

• Squaring Stop

• Foot Pedal Control

• Reserve Air Tank

• 5' Infeed & Outfeed Roller Conveyor

• (2) Duo-Fast DF350S Strip Nailers

$19,900 FOB ND

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

NEW GALVANIZED STEEL STRAPPING

1 1/4" wide x .035 thick. $95 per coil. $1,900 per skid (21 coils). FOB PA. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

AMI Industrial Floor Carts

AMI's industrial floor trucks (material carts) are designed of hardwood construction, fitted with space-age phenolic, roller-bearing wheels, and ball bearing swivel casters for strength and durability. AMI's phenolic wheels resist shock without chipping. They are non-sparking, non-marking, and can be operated continuously between -50℉ and 260℉. They are unaffected by grease, oil or debris on your shop floor.

Series "B" AMI Industrial Floor Truck

Our swivel casters are precision built with perfectly aligned raceways. All cold-form parts are made to exacting tolerances from heavy-gauge steel, and are hardened for severe service and long wear. Series B-4 carts include four casters, one at each corner, to prevent "tri-cycling" of long lumber loads.

Standard Models Available Max Load Weight (lbs.)

2748 27" x 48" Series "B" & "C" 2500

3248 32" x 48" Series "B" & "C" 2500

3260 32" x 60" Series "B" & "C" 2800

3660 36" x 60" Series "B" & "C" 2800

3672 36" x 72" Series "B" 4000

4072 40" x 72" Series "B"

*Other models and sizes are available on request. FOB NC.

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2022 Sullair Rotary Screw Air Compressor

• Model 1112E

• 43.7 CFM at 175 PSI

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

$4,900 FOB WA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Price Reduction!

2020 Ranger RS Lumber Retrieval System

• Fully Automatic Laser Guided Lumber Retrieval System

• 5 Lumber Carts (6' to 20' Lumber)

• Vertical Dividers for Magazine Carts

• Vacuum Pick Head System

• Perimeter Safety System (Light Curtains, Fencing & Gate)

• 50' x 28' Footprint

• 5 Extra Custom Built Lumber Carts

• De signed to fit Monet Deasuw DeRobo Saw

• Available July 2024

• Video available upon request

$94,900 NOW $79,900 FOB NE Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2010 UsiFab Splicer

2010 UsiFab Splicer, model RL, splices 2×4 to 2×8 in vertical orientation, forces lumber together prior to plate pressing, maximum plate size is 7×17″, tubular construction, adjustable pressing rollers, upper hold down and plate clamping guides, single operator station with push-button controls. 4.5 HP motor. 600 volt, 3 phase electrical required. 100 PSI air required.

$17,997 FOB QC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

SL-Laser Truss Projection Heads

• September 2023 SL-ProDirector 7 Laser Projection Heads (3 Available)

• 9,900 - May 2019 SL-ProDirector 6 Laser Projection Head (1 Available) $14,000 FOB OR Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

BAM Stair Wedge Saw

Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) model 2220, stair wedge saw station automatically produces wood wedges used to lock stair treads and risers into slots cut into the stair stringers…

Price based on configuration FOB FL

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

BAM Pre-Hung

Door Machine

Titan Series

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) Titan series pre-hung door machine. Designed to produce between 150 and 250 doors per day. Multi-function door machine capable of doors 1'-6″ to 4′-0″ in width, and both 6′-8″ or 8′-0″ door heights. Processes both 1 3/8″ and 1 3/4″ thick door slabs. Machines the door, hinge jamb and strike jamb all at the same time. Capable hinge sizes include 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″, 4″ x 4″, 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ with 5/8″ radius. Cycle time with flush hinge routing is 45 seconds. 10′ long x 7′-6″ wide footprint. Shipping weight 4,000 lbs.

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

BAM Staircase

Assembly Clamp

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) staircase assembly clamp, model 2210, accommodates up to 20 foot long stringers with a maximum width of 54″…

Price based on configuration FOB FL

• Automatic Homing (time-saver)!

•Larger capacity (up to 16" wide stringers) Triad's very successful Open Stringer Saw (OSS) was designed to increase productivity and cut perfect stringers -- every time! After 20 years, the newly-redesigned OSS takes the experience of our industry-leading engineering to create an even higher-capacity AND higherproduction version of the OSS.

The NEW OSS is touchscreencontrolled and has automatic indexing and cutting. A built-in infeed & outfeed roller conveyor come as standard equipment.

It now also features automatic homing!

The OSS is powered by two 10 HP soft-start motors & uses two 30x80" carbide blades.

Triad Stair Boss PRO

Triad Handrail Machine

Triad XSL Stair Lift

Triad Template Stair Router

Triad Staircase Assembly Clamp

Stringer Cart

BAM “Ovation”

Door Machining Center (DMC)

New Builders Automation Machinery

“Ovation” series, door machining center (DMC). Fully programmable, two-stage door machine featuring (27) axes of operation. Can be specified with either two or four front machining heads. Machine is side-eject, direct-drive with helical gear racks and gear protection from dust. The door loader is driven by an absolute encoder; no stepping motors, belts or exposed ball screws are used.

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

$4,250 FOB

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

create transformative website and app experiences

Since

been helping businesses of all kinds build their online presence. We make websites and software for the construction industry to empower companies to reach a wider customer base and engage their audiences. Companies all around the world work with us to make websites and apps that people actually want to use. Reach out to Wolf X Machina if you're a business and you want a website that actually drives results.

Builders Automation

Machinery (BAM) door loader, model 2001. Allows you to stack door slabs horizontally and feeds them into a horizontal door machine like the BAM model 996E-TS. Mechanically adjusts door stack height vertically as slabs are fed into machine. Clamp automatically adjusts to type and size of door slab: steel, solid-core or hollow-

controller manages the

machine

and heavy-duty drive train

approximately (30) seconds per

•Vastly enhanced operator control for even greater productivity

•A redesigned nail-feed supplying EverWin PN90-PAL industrial nail guns

•Simplified pneumatics featuring direct air-supply to all six nail guns

•Even more sub-component profiles for wall design flexibility

•Rugged durability with pharmaceutical grade assembly

Safety First!

Safety Meeting Topics

From State Fund CA.

Slips and Falls - Avoid Slip-Ups

Slips and falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries. What do experts recommend as the single most important step to take in preventing slips and falls? Simple...keep floors clean, dry, and free of obstruction. When it comes to safeguards against slips and falls, nothing is more important than good housekeeping.

When you walk through a work area, look for spills, grease spots or dust (flour and machine byproducts can be highly slippery). Water spilled by drinking fountains or tracked in on wet or snowy days can create a major hazard. Look around and be aware of wet areas or objects on the floor. Then take the time to do something about it. Clean up the hazard or place cones or hazard signs nearby, warning of the danger. People can walk on extremely slippery surfaces by modifying their speed and stride, provided they know about the dangerous condition. It’s the lack of warning that can cause problems. An unexpected shift from a smooth to a slick surface heightens the likelihood of a slip or fall.

Look for signs of flooring change. Changes in lighting and floor color can conceal a change in friction or angle between adjacent surfaces. Wherever possible, waxes and polishes should cover an entire area, extending to natural breaks in flooring. Choose footwear according to floor surface.

Consider slips and falls when you’re doing a job. Some tasks, such as pushing loads, may require special attention to slip-resistant floor surfaces or carefully selected sole material and treads. For some jobs, better lighting or a stable brace is helpful. Carefully placed and mounted hand rails, poles or hip bars may help operators brace themselves. This reduces reliance on foot/floor friction, which thereby reduces the potential for slipping.

Evite los resbalones y caídas

Los resbalones y las caídas son una de las causas principales de las lesiones que ocurren en el lugar de trabajo. ¿Qué recomiendan los expertos como lo más importante para evitar los resbalones y las caídas? Es sencillo... mantenga los pisos limpios, secos y sin obstrucciones. Cuando se trata de medidas de protección contra resbalones y caídas, nada es más importante que la limpieza y el saneamiento ambiental.

Cuando usted camine por el área de trabajo, busque derrames, manchas de grasa o polvo (las harinas y los subproductos máquinas pueden ser altamente resbaladizos). El agua derramada en las cercanías de las fuentes de agua o acarreada al interior por el calzado en los días lluviosos o de mucha nieve pueden crear un peligro grave. Observe los alrededores e identifique las áreas mojadas y los objetos en el piso. Entonces tómese el tiempo necesario para corregir la situación. Limpie los derrames peligrosos o coloque conos o letreros de advertencia de peligro. Las personas pueden caminar sobre superficies sumamente resbaladizas si modifican su velocidad y paso, siempre que estén enteradas de las condiciones de peligro. Es la falta de advertencia lo que puede causar los problemas. Un cambio inesperado de una superficie uniforme a una superficie resbaladiza eleva la probabilidad de un resbalón o caída.

Busque signos de cambios en el piso. Los cambios en iluminación y color del piso pueden ocultar un cambio en la fricción o en el ángulo entre dos superficies adyacentes. Siempre que sea posible, los encerados y pulidos de pisos deberán cubrir un área completa, extendiéndose hasta los cambios existentes en el piso. Elija el calzado de acuerdo con la superficie del piso.

Al realizar un trabajo considere la posibilidad de resbalones y caídas. Algunas tareas, tales como empujar cargas, pueden requerir que se preste una atención especial a las superficies de pisos antideslizantes o a la selección cuidadosa del material de las suelas y el grabado de las mismas. Para algunos trabajos, resulta útil tener una mejor iluminación o un refuerzo lateral estable. Los pasamanos, las barandillas y los postes cuidadosamente colocados e instalados pueden ayudar a los operadores a apoyarse por sí mismos. Esto reduce la dependencia en la fricción entre el calzado y el piso, con lo cual se reduce el potencial de resbalones.

Slips can occur because of how you walk on a surface. Some simple things you can do to minimize your chance of slipping and falling would be to wear appropriate footwear; watch where you’re going; take slow, short steps where slip potential is high; and use hand holds where possible.

Los resbalones pueden ocurrir dependiendo de cómo usted camine sobre una superficie. Algunas cosas sencillas que usted puede hacer para reducir al mínimo su riesgo de sufrir resbalones y caídas es usar un calzado apropiado; ver bien por dónde camina, dar pasos lentos y cortos en las áreas donde el potencial de resbalones es elevado y usar los pasamanos en los lugares donde sea posible.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions speciﬁcally discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

CalENdar of EvENts

SEPTEMBER

September 5–8

September 10–12 Northeastern Lumber Mfrs Assoc (NEMLA) 92nd Annual Meeting Stowe, VT

September 11 Truss Mfrs Assoc of Texas (TMAT) Heroes’ Tribute Golf Add San Antonio, TX

September 15–18 North Am Wholesale Lumber Assoc (NAWLA) Wood Basics Corvallis, OR

September

September 23–25

CalENdar of EvENts

NOVEMBER

2025

November 3–5 Lumbermens Merchandising Corp. (LMC) Expo Philadelphia, PA

November 4–6 Multifamily Executive (MFE) Conference Newport Beach, CA

November 4–6 NAFCD + NBMDA 2025 Annual Convention Chicago, IL

November 5–7 North Am Wholesale Lumber Assoc (NAWLA) Traders Market Kansas City, MO

November 10–13 Lumber Quality Institute (LQI) Lumber Quality Workshop Salem, OR

November 13 Offsite Construction Summit Pittsburgh, PA

November 17–19 AHF Live Summit Chicago, IL

November 17–19 Natl Assoc of Home Bldrs (NAHB) Fall Leadership Meeting Denver, CO

DECEMBER

2025

December 7 Mountain States Lbr & Bldg Mat Dealers (MSLBMDA) BrewfestDenver, CO

December 8–9 SBCA Southwest Quality Bootcamp Sacramento, CA

Don’t see your event? Increase attendance and participation by listing your industry focused events here! E-mail details and event web-link to Anna@componentadvertiser.org. We can’t guarantee space for all events, but all industry related events will be added on a space available and interest to our reader priority.

Elevate Your Wall Panel, Floor Truss or Roof Truss Manufacturing with 4Ward Design Solutions’ Precision Component Design Services!

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry!

• Al Coffman

• Jean Hart • Curt Holler • Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor • Elliot Wilson

Remote EWP Designer New England ID: J15380

MiTek Multifamily Truss Designer Texas ID: J15378

Plant Manager - Wall Panels - J15375 Central Florida

Truss & EWP Design Manager - J15376 Central Ontario

Truss Design Manager - MiTek software J15370 Florida

Remote Truss Designer J15313 New England

Truss Designer J15339 New England

Outside Sales - Truss/Panel J15371 Northeast

Truss Design Manager - Apline J15366 Texas

Light Gauge Steel Truss Designer - Alpine Remote, Hybrid, or South J15374

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15361 Mid Atlantic

Remote Mega-Multifamily Truss Designer J15368 Mid-Atlantic

Sales Representative - J15355 Central Ontario

Sales Manager - J15373 Southern Alberta

In Office or Remote Truss Designer - MiTek Software J15369 Florida or remote in FL or GA

Truss Designer - Multifamily/MiTek J15362 TN

Truss Designer - Multifamily/MiTek J15363 TX

Remote Truss Designer - Alpine Software J15350 Remote

Truss Designer-J15365 Western Canada

Remote Multifamily Truss Designer J15356 Texas

Truss Designer J15357 East Texas

Implementation and Support Specialist J15306 100% Remote - Northeast

Truss & Wall Panel Designer J15226 Northeast

Remote Truss Designer J15307 Full Time Remote

Truss Production Manager-J15354

Greater Toronto Area

Remote Truss Designer - Alpine J15246 Midwest Candidate preferred

Senior Truss & Wall Panel Designer - MiTek J15352 Midwest

CFS Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer J5323 Midwest

Outside Sales - Truss/Lumber J15345 Southeast

Truss Designer - On-site - MiTek J15346 Florida

Truss Designer J15348 South

Senior Truss Designer - J15342 Mountains

Project Coordinator J15272 TN

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15228 Florida

Truss Designer J14165 Carolinas

Senior Truss Designer-J15300 Eastern Ontario

Senior Truss & EWP Designer - J15320 AB, BC, ON

EWP Designer - J15314 BC

ID: C18378

Remote Truss Designer

Relocation: REMOTE, USA - Western

Experienced Roof Truss Designer with a strong foundation in the building industry, seeking a role where my skills can contribute to company growth and long-term success. I thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and excel at understanding customer needs, communicating clearly, and motivating teams through effective delegation. I recognize the importance of company-wide financial performance and strive to support overall success through efficient operations.

My industry background is diverse, including truss design, hardware, lumber, equipment operation (small and heavy), construction, and home inspections. I began my career in the plant and advanced into design, gaining hands-on knowledge at every level.

I designed trusses using EdgeCad and Computrus to generate customer estimates and batch cutting reports for sawyers and builders. I prepared engineering packages for submission to Building and Safety Departments and use EdgeTrack for scheduling, delivery coordination, and billing. I’m now transitioning to MiTek SAPPHIRE Structure for advanced design and project management and have completed many training programs for MiTek SAPPHIRE and am ready for the next challenge.

ID: C18549

Remote Wall Panel Designer

Relocation: USA - ALL States Wall panel designer with 10 years' experience including production builders, single family custom and small to MegaMultifamily projects. MiTek Sapphire software experience.

ID: C18426

Remote Truss Designer

Offshore Truss Designer with MiTek experience. The candidate is a civil engineer with 6 years' truss design experience for companies in Texas and Florida. Prior work for BFS and smaller manufacturers. Bilingual Spanish/English with a company set up to make paying easy. Scored 89 on our truss design skills evaluation, which is near the senior designer level. He is also SBCA I & II certified. He is willing to go to work immediately.

Compensation: $65-75k as a subcontractor, no benefits or taxes.

We haven't represented offshore candidates in the past but feel this candidate is worth a shot. Please contact Thom for additional details.

ID: C10122

Designer/Design Manager - Truss

Relocation: Iowa

Senior Designer. - Advanced. Candidate has 24 years Truss Ddesigner experience and 5 years Truss Design Manager experience. Products include floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, and hardware. Markets include single family, custom, high end, multi-family, light commercial, and agriculture. Primary duties include design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties include checking others work, repairs, customer service, inside sales, software maintenance, training, and filling in for the Design Manager as needed. Software experience includes MiTek and Keymark. Training received includes WTCA Level 2. Education: High School Graduate and Batchelors degree.

Motivating factors: advancement, compensation, benefits, work location, job security, and relocation.

ID: C18604

Truss Designer - Remote (MiTek)

Relocation: Alberta

I currently design & layout roof trusses, floor trusses, I-Joists and EWP from PDF plans and specifications for pricing. Also does engineering using MiTek, then uploads to Management or MBA in the past. Once sold, and field measurements are provided, I update the project and clean up the layouts, trusses and release them to the shop. I also answer questions from sales and the shop as needed as well as training newer designers. Most of my projects are single family, but I have also done several apartments, hotels, assisted living centers, and other commercial projects. I want to grow, learn, and become a better designer to be a valued team member.

ID: C10968

Senior Wood Truss Designer - Part Time Relocation: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, REMOTE

Candidate desires to use his career long industry experience to be the best Part Time Remote Designer you have. Prior truss plant owner for 10 years, strong production and operations management background, and JobLine Senior Designer rating in truss design using MiTek software. Also has FASTBeam experience. Products: floor & roof trusses. Markets: Single family custom, multi family, tract and light commercial. Was successful in creating strong teams in production, design and customer service, but the local economy and overwhelming competition was more than he could overcome from a small plant perspective. Degree: BSEE

Compensation: Based on employee or 1099 status.

Thom's Notes: I have worked with this

candidate as an employer for years. Very detail oriented. Fair, honest, and customer service oriented. Very design/liability conscious. Scored 98

ID: C10853

Remote Design Manager | Remote Offshore Design Project Manager

Relocation: Texas, Georgia, USA - South

Top level Engineering/Design Management candidate, 14+- years experience Truss, 4+- Panel experience. Has experience building and integrating offshore design resources with internal design departments and training design managers to better utilize offshore capabilities. Large volume manufacturer experience. MiTek Sapphire design/layout proficient. Too confidential to go into more detail.

Compensation: $120k+

ID: C11370

General | Plant Manager/Operations - Truss/ Panel/Framing Package

Relocation: Texas, Arizona

20 years' experience. Started in production, advanced to Saw Supervisor, Production Manager, Plant Manager, now General Manager. As General Manager operated a $125M truss plant. Tripled output and reduced errors and labor cost. Developed and implemented standards and procedures to manage quality and costs. As Plant Manager (4 years), manage all the operation of the manufacturing plant, such as Productivity, logistics, efficiencies, costs. As Production Manager (12 years), manage all the areas of the manufacturing across the plant. Safety, quality control, efficiencies, HR, etc... Software: MiTek, Word, Excel, OptiFrame. Products: R & F Truss, Panel, Framing package. Markets: Single Family, Multifamily, Custom Homes. Bilingual English/Spanish spoken and written. Degree in Industrial Engineering.

Compensation: $90's+ bonus ($100k min)

ID: C10897

Design Manager/Senior Designer/PE/ Optimizer - Truss/Panel/EWP Relocation: REMOTE

30 year industry veteran, started as a Truss Designer, earned his way to Design Manager over 20+ designers. MiTek - Advanced, AutoCAD proficient. BSCE - PE.

Compensation: Open??

Thom's Notes: PE with Mid Atlantic seals

ID: C18565

Designer: Truss/Panel, Wood/Steel, BIM Relocation: North Carolina Material take-offs, proposals, job-site meetings, Submittal Tracking, Excellent Problem-solving Skills, Material Ordering,

Field Measuring, 3-D Modeling Program (3-D and 4-D BIM in-house), Generated material take-offs from the BIM model, Coordinated RFI's thru the BIM model, Clash detection between wood trusses, structural steel and LVL's. 3-D Scan's of job-sites. Scheduled / Distributed work to 6 designers Cross-trained all designers in roof floor and wall panels for whole-house design.

ID: C18370

Plant | Location | General Manager - Truss/ Panel

Relocation: California, Nevada Highly experienced (20+ years) roof and floor truss, and wall panel manufacturing manager. Started in the plant as builder, then sawyer, supervisor, truck driver, maintenance manager, designer, outside sales, plant manager, operations manager, and general manager. OSHA trained, developed and implemented safety programs. Successful turn around experience, hands on ability to work with departments to combine individual strengths into one team effort, lower costs, and meet quality and volume expectations. Past experience negotiating better vendor programs to lower costs and improve inventory turns.

ID: C10507

Senior Management - Truss/Panel/Lumber/ Installed Services

Relocation: USA - Western

I am a Diverse driven individual seeking a position in the fast paced construction component industry where my professionalism in sales, business and leadership skills along with a strong proven background in, General Management, Operations, Sales Management, strategic alliances, business development, team building, P&L experience and Customer Satisfaction will play an integral part in growing new business, nurturing existing business or developing company operations to meet the highest level of efficiencies, standards and safety while having fun doing it!

TheJobLine.com, inc.

Relocation: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Ontario, Vermont

As District Manager: Responsible for the financial performance of three wood truss and wall panel plants, two Millwork and door assembly facilities and one installed labor location in multiple states. Group revenues increased from $50 million/year in to $70 million per year. Devised a “buy versus make” purchasing protocol in to ensure that internal truss and Millwork plants were operating at capacity before using outside vendors that supplied similar products. Spearheaded a “hub and spoke” organizational structure for three truss plants. This plan optimized scarce design talent, reduced clerical expenses, and synchronized output at each plant. Restructured the installed labor division to include material estimators, lumber salespeople and cost accounting methods in 2005. The changes resulted in a 400k gain in profits. Drafted corporate training material for fall protection and new hire safety orientation.

As General Manager: Won “Gold Store” award for exceeding company goals in profits, sales growth, and ROA. Served on a corporate manufacturing audit and operating performance team that made recommendations to under performing truss plants. Two of the facilities audited became “Gold Stores” the following year. When the sales of three district stores were allocated to the truss plant, the lost business ($1.5 million/year) was made up and organic sales grew by over 10%. Sales volume grew from $11 million per year to over $15 million per year.

ID: C18387

Division Manager, VP Operations, President - Truss | Panel | Building Materials | Pro Dealer

Relocation: Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Texas, USASouth, Virginia, Washington DC, Wisconsin

Executive level manager, VP, President with $1+B P&L responsibility. Lumber, building materials, trusses, wall panels, and CFS background. Inquire to discuss this candidate.

ID: C18449

Estimator | Designer - Truss, Panel | Prior carpenter

Relocation: Ohio, Pennsylvania

Prepare and distribute estimates to competing bidders. Calculate labor, time, and material estimated per individual job. Read, analyze, and interpret residential and commercial blueprints. Ensure projects meet the proper building codes and standards for the industry. Communicate with prospective bidders both over the phone and in person. Design and engineer roof trusses, floor trusses, pre-fabricated wall panels, and EWP. Gained first-hand experience setting

trusses in the field during prior construction job. Design roof systems to be most efficient and inexpensive when being constructed in the field. Design complete models in MiTek Sapphire. Design and engineer roof trusses and transfer loads throughout the structure as need. Also design and engineer beams and hangers when necessary.

ID: C12414

Truss Designer | Wall Panel Designer | All Hats Relocation: Arizona

Engineered panel and truss design, developed material take off for turnkey build up, worked in coordination with multiple plants and design teams, worked closely with material suppliers on take offs and estimating.

I've worked for decades in the construction industry. Not only in new construction, but additions and remodels as well using innovative designs for added value and to drive down cost. In addition to experience with MiTek, Wallbuilder and other design software packages, I have extensive manual trig/math skills. I use these to back check questionable loads as well to design from scratch in the field when needed. I have also written tutorials for the training of others and checked other designer's work as a Design Manager at a Panel Plant. All things being equal, I love working in components whether designing, cutting, building or setting components at the site.

ID: C18430

Truss Designer | Remote Truss Designer Relocation: USA - South, USA - Southwest, USA - ALL States

Extensive experience in truss estimating and design. Proficient in designing roof and floor trusses for a variety of projects including: custom homes, track homes, multi-family, mega-multifamily, and light commercial projects. I always get everyone involved with the project like architect, engineers, homeowners, and sales personnel Many times I go to the job site for the convenience of the framer and see what kind of condition or changes they might have; this way we will be working on the same page. Also included in my experience is purchasing material, negotiating contracts, setting up deliveries, steel and cmu detailing for steel columns and beams, with almost 25 years of experience in the construction business. MiTek Sapphire.

ID: C18412

Plant | Production | Operations ManagerTruss/Panel

Relocation: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida

Oversaw all aspects of the manufacturing and shipping of wood truss component systems for the building industry: roofs, floors and wall panels; 2 shift operation; 8 million in sales.

Managed the master schedule based on sales orders, plant volume, and lead time through the Mitek Management Business Application System.

Followed all orders through the process to insure OTD (on time delivery).

Handled all phone communications from the customer as it related to changes in the delivery schedule.

Batched jobs through the engineering software to the component saws and truss building tables

Quality Assurance – WTCA/TPI

ID: C18367

Wall Panel Designer | Remote Wall Panel

Designer | Mega-Multifamily Relocation: Utah

Remote wall panel design for medium to large scale MF. Remote estimating using MiTek Sapphire to get a more accurate material count. 100,000 - 500,000 sq ft MF projects primarily in the New England Market with the panel plant being in New Brunswick. Also worked on projects in the Arizona, Texas, and California markets.

Compensation: $70's+ (45+- hours)

ID: C18365

Intermediate Canadian Remote Truss Designer - Sapphire Relocation: Ontario

Remote Truss Designer available.. Currently provides technical support and designs to lumber distributors for roof systems for residential and commercial applications. Provides technical assistance and support to the distribution staff to meet client demands for engineered wood structural applications. Ensures that wood truss fabricators, lumber distributors and specifiers have adhered to established building standards, codes and practices. Maintains extensive knowledge of structural analysis programs such as MiTek SAPPHIRE Structure design software. Analyze/prepare engineered wood designs and details for Design Engineer review and approval. Generate manufacturing information and quotations for sales team and management. Prepares the job for production. Canadian codes and standards experienced.

ID: C15958

Operations/Plant Manager - Millwork | Doors | Ply | Flooring

Relocation: Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Wyoming

30 years' experience starting in production and advancing to multi-plant operations manager. Door experience includes managing three Production Managers and five Production Supervisors, consisting of 300 hourly employees producing 11,000

doors and 10,000 face frames per day. Responsible for the manufacturing functions of all mill operations, five frame component machining cells, three frame assembly operations, four door component machining cells, three door assembly clamps, three door profiling lines, two wide belt sanding lines and specialty machining and assembly cells.

Flooring experience: Responsible for all plant functions including budgeting and P&L. Managed six Department Managers: two Production Departments, Quality Assurance, Materials, Human Resources including SHE, and Plant Engineer/Maintenance Manager including the CI program. Their staffs consist of eleven Supervisors and 330 hourly employees. The door plant operation dries lumber, cuts dimension stock, assembles and sands the doors. The panel plant produces the veneered flat and raised center panels, by cutting engineered wood and veneer from flitch and pressing the veneer to the substrate. Both plants are equipped with finishing lines.

ID: C15995

Truss Designer - MiTek

Relocation: Florida

Truss Designer. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, and cutting/production documents. Secondary duties: checking others work. Software used: MiTek and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses and roof trusses. Market experience includes single family, multifamily, light commercial, and agriculture. My volume was varied depending on projects. 2 years experience, MiTek software.

ID: C18277

Professional Engineer | Engineering Manager - Engineered Wood Products, Components Structural Hardware | Codes & Compliance

Relocation: Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, USA - Eastern, Virginia, Washington DC

Experienced and successful professional engineering manager with over 25 years experience in improving productivity and resolving structural problems for engineered wood product and truss manufacturers and developing innovative design software programs. Also skilled in building outstanding teams and relationships among sales, manufacturing, and engineering stakeholders. Highly educated with exceptional employment history & experience.

ID: C18250

Remote Senior Light Gage Steel Truss/ Panel Designer.

Relocation: Texas

Top level Light Gage Steel Senior Remote

TheJobLine.com, inc.

Designer with Truss and Panel and well as metal frame commercial project experience. Alpine, Truswal and Keymark experience.

ID: C17230

Remote Wall Panel Designer - Sapphire

Relocation: Newfoundland

My objective is to be part of a team/company and prove I am reliable, show my ability and my willingness to learn! In addition to being a newer wall panel designer, I have learned software such as Mitek Sapphire, Revit 2017, Bluebeam Revu 2016. I have recently done jobs such as designing garages and adding on additions to homes. Jobs I have worked in wall paneling include a massive wall panel job for the US (500,000+ SFT) and designed units for a senior complex. In addition to wall panels...I also add in blocking, windows, doors, etc. I also do bundling and paperwork as well.

ID: C16152

Mega-Multifamily General Manager

Relocation: Florida

Mega-Multifamily General Manager. Apply to discuss this candidate. Highly confidential.

ID: C11781

Truss Design Manager

Relocation: New York

Worked on the most complicated custom projects, commercial buildings, and apartment complexes. Quickly became a team leader and was considered company wide as an expert in truss framing and computer applications. Provided training for a group of 30 experienced component designers in topics including load tracking, truss and layout optimization, and hardware specification. Optimization training helped to reduced material costs by 5%. Developed departmental procedures to increase consistency and accuracy of all designs and estimates. Reduced errors on repetitive projects by 25% by creating the master project file database, which organized and provided fast and easy access to project information. Streamlined estimating process for commercial construction projects. Analyzed the final cost of completed projects and applied results to new estimates. Reduced estimating time by 75% Managed up to 10 designers/sales reps. Software: MiTek, AutoCAD.

ID: C15999

Outside Sales - Truss | Wall Panel | EWP | Installed Sales

Relocation: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

16 years' experience in outside sales of trusses, wall panels, engineered wood components, stairs and other building materials. Projects range from tract to high volume multifamily apartments. Has developed new territory, improved sales in lagging markets, and met or exceeded sales goals in most years. Has turn key

installed sales experience, and has limited design skills from the past. Please inquire for additional information. Easy relocate.

ID: C15857

Senior Truss Designer | Remote Truss Designer | Design Manager Relocation: California

Truss Designer. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties: checking others work, scheduling, repairs, customer service, inside sales, and field measurements. Software used: MiTek and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, EWP, and hardware. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multifamily, and light commercial. My volume was varied depending on projects. Has used MiTek, Alpine, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office programs.

The candidate has been out of the industry, working in parallel jobs, and wants to return to a design position. Scored Senior Designer using an HP calculator, 8 years after his last truss design job. Speed was faster than average too. It may take a little time for him to get up to speed on the latest software. Ranked 5 out of 5 in our system.

ID: C10810

Designer/Inside Sales - Truss Relocation: Virginia

6 years design experience, 1 inside sales. Primary duties: design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties: scheduling, repairs, customer service, inside sales, and field measurements. Software used: MiTek, AutoCAD, and CAD - Other. Component experience includes floor trusses and roof trusses. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multifamily, light commercial, and agriculture. My volume was varied depending on projects. Past carpenter and framer. Has an engineering related associates degree/ drafting

Compensation: $45k+

ID: C15679

LGS Truss & Panel PE Relocation: USA - Eastern, USA - South

As Engineering Manager I was responsible for oversight of all technical and engineering engagements. Design of light gauge metal trusses, wall panels, shear walls, for hotels, retirement homes and other commercial and residential structures. Making jobs viable by replacing red-iron with light gauge metal was key to solidifying more projects. I was actively engaged in computer software development of truss design and coordinating overseas programming efforts into truss layout.

As Senior Technical Services Engineer, I held the nation-wide responsibility for all light gauge cold-formed steel truss engineering including field applied repair design. I provided technical advice and counsel to our staff and functioned as a subject matter expert (SME) for all three product divisions. As a result, I augmented my professional registrations to include 38 States, 1 District, and 1 Canadian Province.

ID: C14490

General Manager | Operations Manager | Turn Around Relocation: Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, Arkansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas

Full P&L turnaround of a family owned light gage steel panel manufacturing company. Turned it form a mom and pop, into a large, functioning manufacturing company that had systems, KPI programs, personnel development, and a growing customer base. Ready to help take your company to the next level.

ID: C11976

Design/Estimating/Sales - Truss/LGS

Relocation: New York

Experienced wood & cold formed steel truss designer with 12 years experience using MiTek Industries and Aegis Metal Framing products and software. Seasoned sales professional with 8 years experience selling; wood roof & floor trusses and accessories, metal roof trusses and accessories, and the sale of component design and engineering services. A highly motivated designer and sales person with a proven track record for achieving excellence, building long term business relationships, and providing impeccable service to contractors, engineers, architects, and developers throughout New York and New England. Specialize in design build and defense contracting from early pre-bid/qualification stages through installation.

ID: C11895

Designer - Truss/I-Joists, EWP

Relocation: California, USA - ALL States, Texas, Alaska

Designer. Primary duties: design and cutting/production documents. Secondary duties: checking others work and field measurements. Software used: Alpine and MiTek. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, EWP, and hardware. Market experience includes single family, single family custom, multifamily, and light commercial. BS Civil Engineering. Software: Alpine, MiTek, AutoCAD, Word, Excel.

ID: C10324

Plant Manager/Designer/Design Manager/?? - Truss/Panel/Installed

Relocation: Georgia

As Location Manager, managed one estimator, four designers, a secretary/ data entry person, and a shop of 40 truss production employees. As Senior Designer, primary duties: design, layout, optimization, and takeoff. Secondary duties: checking others work, scheduling, repairs, customer service, and training. Software used: Alpine and AutoCAD. Component experience includes floor trusses, roof trusses, wall panels, framed openings, I-Joists, EWP, hardware, lumber, and complete framing package. Market experience includes tract, single family, single family custom, multifamily, and light commercial.

Thom's Notes: Very experienced, willing to wear many hats.

NAHB Census Reveals Small Businesses Continue to Drive Home Building

Posted August 26, 2025 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

New figures from NAHB highlight the enduring role of small businesses in the residential construction industry. According to the latest NAHB member census, most builder members continue to operate on a modest scale amid a housing industry facing affordability challenges, labor shortages, and material cost volatility

The census shows the median number of housing starts by builder members in 2024 was six — a number that has remained constant since 2021. These builder members include single-family and multifamily home builders, commercial and residential remodelers, commercial builders, land developers, and modular or panelized home manufacturers.

However, the census found that a wide range of production levels exist within the builder segment.

Revenue data also underscore the smallbusiness nature of most NAHB builders. The median builder brought in $3.7 million in 2024, an 8% increase over 2023. Despite the growth, 60% of builder members reported earning under $5 million for the year. The largest segment (35%) reported revenue between $1 million and $4.9 million. Only 16% exceeded $15 million in total revenue.

The U.S. Small Business Administration currently defines residential builders and remodelers as small businesses if they generate under $45 million in average annual receipts, or $34 million for land developers. By that measure, nearly all NAHB builder members meet the threshold.

Employee data further reflect the lean operating structure of many builders. The median number of employees among builder members in 2024 was six, unchanged from the previous year. NAHB officials note that many builders rely heavily on subcontractors, which allows them to remain flexible while keeping direct payroll costs low.

The full census findings, including category-specific profiles for seven distinct types of builders, are available in the August 2025 special study.

Builder Confidence Plateaus at Relatively Low Level

Posted August 18, 2025 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Elevated mortgage rates, weak buyer traffic and ongoing supply-side challenges continued to act as a drag on builder confidence in August, as sentiment levels remain in a holding pattern at a low level.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 32 in August, down one point from July, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. Builder sentiment has now been in negative territory for 16 consecutive months and has hovered at a relatively low reading between 32 and 34 since May.

“Affordability continues to be the top challenge for the housing market and buyers are waiting for mortgage rates to drop to move forward,” said NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes, a home builder and developer from Lexington, N.C. “Builders are also grappling with supply-side headwinds, including ongoing frustrations with regulatory policies connected to developing land and building homes.”

“Housing affordability is central to the outlook for economic growth and inflation,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “Given a slowing housing market and other recent economic data, the Fed’s monetary policy committee should return to lowering the federal funds rate, which will reduce financing costs for housing construction and indirectly help mortgage interest rates.”

In further signs of a soft housing market, the latest HMI survey also revealed that 37% of builders reported cutting prices in August, down from 38% in July. This share has remained at 37% or 38% for the past three months. Meanwhile, the average price reduction was 5% in August, the same as it’s been every month since last November. The use of sales incentives was 66% in August, up from 62% in July and the highest percentage in the post-Covid period.

The HMI index gauging current sales conditions fell one point in August to a level of 35 while the component measuring sales expectations in the next six months held steady at 43. The gauge charting traffic of prospective buyers posted a two-point gain to 22 but remains at a very low level.

Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast fell one point to 44, the Midwest gained one point to 42, the South dropped one point to 29 and the West declined one point to 24.

HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS.

Single-Family Starts Edge Higher but Affordability Challenges Persist

Posted August 19, 2025 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Single-family housing starts posted a modest gain in July as builders continue to contend with challenging housing affordability conditions and a host of supply-side headwinds, including labor shortages, elevated construction costs and inefficient regulatory costs.

Led by solid multifamily production, overall housing starts increased 5.2% in July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.43 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

The July reading of 1.43 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. Within this overall number, singlefamily starts increased 2.8% to a 939,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate and are down 4.2% on a year-to-date basis. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, increased 9.9% to an annualized 489,000 pace.

“Single-family production continues to operate at reduced levels due to ongoing housing affordability challenges, including persistently high mortgage rates, the skilled labor shortage and excessive regulatory costs,” said Buddy Hughes, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder and developer from Lexington, N.C. “These headwinds were reflected in our latest builder survey, which indicates that affordability is the top challenge to the housing market.”

“The slowdown in single-family home building has narrowed the home building pipeline,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “There are currently 621,000 single-family homes under construction, down 1% in July and 3.7% lower than a year ago. This is the lowest level since early 2021 as builders pull back on supply.”

On a regional and year-to-date basis, combined single-family and multifamily starts were 10.2% higher in the Northeast, 17.7% higher in the Midwest, 2.4% lower in the South and 0.5% lower in the West.

Overall permits decreased 2.8% to a 1.35-million-unit annualized rate in July. Single-family permits increased 0.5% to an 870,000-unit rate and are down 5.8% on a year-to-date basis. Multifamily permits decreased 8.2% to a 484,000 pace.

Looking at regional permit data on a year-to-date basis, permits were 16.6% lower in the Northeast, 9.1% higher in the Midwest, 3.4% lower in the South and 5.1% lower in the West.

Santa Fe Students Build ‘Tiny’ Homes to Test Energy Efficiency Codes

Posted August 21, 2025 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

To benefit the community and provide students hands-on construction experience, the Santa Fe Area Home Builders Association (SFAHBA) recently completed the Northern New Mexico Ice Box Challenge. In partnership with Habitat for Humanity and YouthWorks, a local nonprofit providing workbased learning opportunities, the group constructed three fully functioning 18.5-by-8.5-foot “tiny” homes to demonstrate how different building standards affect energy efficiency.

The project involved about 36 students from Santa Fe’s Early College Opportunities (ECO) High School, a career and technical education center where students learn welding, construction and other trades, and Habitat for Humanity college volunteers. Working alongside industry professionals, the students installed floor joists, framed walls, assembled roofs and more to gain practical building experience in a real-life setting. “We demystified what it takes to build a house,” said Miles Conway, executive officer of the SFAHBA. “They know how to handle a screw gun and a saw, and we gave them more experience.”

Modeled after a European competition, the homes were built to different standards: 1950s code, the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code and Passive House standards. Each was filled with 600 pounds of ice and set in the sun for an August weekend, with internal temperatures and ice content monitored over several days. The Passive House standard eventually proved best, as it stayed the coolest and kept ice the longest.

Beginning in February, students worked about 10 hours a week with SFAHBA member volunteers and the EOC High School construction teacher. More than a dozen SFAHBA members contributed time and expertise to the project, and many companies donated materials, including lumber, windows, doors and plumbing supplies. Planning for the project began four years ago by Conway and longtime SFAHBA member Tom Treece. Conway said they initially considered building birdhouses with elementary schoolers before opting for a larger project with high schoolers. “We wanted to get a structured program going so kids could see a set of plans and how those plans turn into reality,” Treece said. “You can do so many different things if you have even the slightest bit of construction knowledge.”

This project continued SFAHBA’s community engagement initiatives, including its 11-year LEGO building contest that has involved hundreds of students. Recognizing another critical local need, the tiny homes will be donated to the Esperanza Shelter, a local domestic violence treatment center, once fully complete. “We’re doing something very tangible and real in the community,” Conway said. “And it was only our first year. It’s laid the groundwork for the future.”

The homes are currently on display outside the New Mexico State Capitol, where SFAHBA members led local sixth graders on a tour to spark interest in the industry. Conway said plans are already underway for next year, including building with natural and sustainable materials to further test energy performance. SFAHBA is also exploring how to revive a past program where Santa Fe high school students partnered with SFAHBA to build homes for teachers. “If you want the youth of your community invested in the future of your community, have them build it,” Conway said.

INdustry NEWs

Explore the Next-Generation of Solutions at BCMC 2025

Alpine will be leading an engineering educational session presented by SBCA and featuring live equipment and software demonstrations in booth 1118.

Glenview, IL – Alpine is excited to exhibit at the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) and Framers Summit (FS) in Omaha on October 1–2, 2025. Exhibiting at booth 1118, Alpine will be highlighting the latest solutions designed to help make component manufacturers (CMs) more profitable and competitive. The booth will feature live equipment and software demonstrations with productivity enhancements—as well as a Tuesday educational session, Truss Manufacturer’s Guide to Understanding 2024 IBC & IRC, delivered by Alpine’s Chief Engineering Managers, William Krick, PE and David Rothweiler, PE.

“After spending 22 years in the construction industry, I’ve learned each year brings new challenges— challenging CMs to rethink operations and workflows to unlock efficiencies. BCMC provides a platform that pulls designers, plant managers, owners, and suppliers together to learn, network, and engage with the community as a whole,” said Michael Schwitter, Director of Sales. “Alpine is committed to partnering with CMs to solve problems, and our latest advancements will drive new levels of productivity and precision—empowering the industry not just to meet, but to exceed the demands of the market.”

Alpine Software

“We are incredibly excited to introduce Alpine Connect and these powerful new features,” said Rick Tilelli, Alpine Director of Software Development. “Our customers consistently ask for solutions that simplify their workflows, improve collaboration, and help them operate faster while reducing costly rework. With Alpine Connect and the latest IntelliVIEW Suite enhancements, we directly address those needs, empowering them to operate more efficiently and collaboratively than ever before.”

Alpine Connect is a cloud-based design and project management software suite designed to maximize estimating and design efficiency while fostering seamless, multi-disciplinary collaboration. “It is built to enhance the deep relationships Alpine is already known for,” added Michael Schwitter, Director of Sales. “By providing a tool that improves communication and problem-solving, Alpine Connect reinforces our dedication to partnership while delivering value-driven solutions.”

Alpine Connect platform includes powerful new features, such as:

SBCA Innovation Grant-nominated Plan Comparison Tool leverages AI technology to improve floor plan review. It quickly identifies differences between plans, automatically matching pages and detecting text, structural, and visual differences. This speeds up reviews, eliminates potential errors, and facilitates better multidisciplinary collaboration by enabling users to easily share comments and tag team members.

INdustry NEWs

The Alpine Team is excited to share the highlights of the new IntelliVIEW Suite 2025 Series with attendees, as an opportunity to showcase new and improved software functionality.

New EWP Capabilities: Alpine introduces Engineered Wood Products (EWP) Input Improvements which include streamlined design tools for EWP and dynamic framing modifications to improve workflows.

IntelliVIEW Paperspace Tool: Alpine’s 2D page layout environment is enhanced with templates for large layouts, linked schedules, and blocks with drawings to streamline documentation.

Alpine Equipment

“Alpine remains dedicated to providing solutions that optimize plant operations and safe environments for CMs,” said Jenai Alexis, Equipment Business Unit Manager. “The 2025 spring launch of the latest generation of the Alpine Linear Saw is an excellent example and testament to our commitment to innovation. This saw maintains the accuracy and reliability our customers trust, with engineering enhancements that maximize board footage per shift, improves the handling of small components, and added preventive maintenance capabilities,” Jenai Alexis added. There will be live equipment demonstrations, offering attendees a firsthand look.

The unveiling of the Alpine Linear Saw (ALS) 5.0 at last year’s show provides a new level of performance. The live demonstrations will highlight the automated double-stacking infeed that improves the cutting workflow and speed, a small component delivery system to the outfeed, enhanced printing capabilities, and waste minimization. The ALS also features a new user-interface, cut optimization, and maintenance dashboard to help streamline the production process.

With set up in less than 25 seconds, the Alpine AutoSet Plus Table sets benchmarks in truss production efficiency and accuracy. This computer-controlled system is easy to learn, use, and maintain. Automated steel pucks help workers maintain a consistent workflow with higher accuracy and reduce assembler fatigue.

Book Your Private Demo

Email info@alpineitw.com now to book your private software or product demonstrations for an opportunity to see the Alpine technology in action and how it can add value to your business—Build More.

About Alpine

Recognized for its engineering excellence, productivity-enhancing software and equipment solutions, and the industry’s best service, Alpine is a leading provider of building component software, metal connector products, and equipment to component manufacturers. Since 1966, the company has partnered closely with customers to enhance their business and productivity. Alpine is also a leader in delivering software solutions that increase homebuilder productivity and profitability. The company is a division of Illinois Tool Works Inc., a Fortune 200 global diversified manufacturer. For additional information, visit https://alpineitw.com.

NEWs

PFPS™ Purlin Splice Connector From Simpson Strong-Tie Reduces Costs, Enhances Installation Efficiency for Post Frame Construction

August 20, 2025, Pleasanton, Calif. — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has introduced the PFPS24 purlin splice connector for post frame construction. Designed to simplify roof purlin connections, the PFPS24 eliminates the need to offset and overlap purlins, keeping them in line along the entire length of a gable roof. The connector’s design enhances purlin and roof panel installation efficiency and improves fastener alignment; furthermore, it reduces material costs by allowing the use of shorter, more economical purlin stock.

With minimum and maximum fastener options, the PFPS24 purlin splice connector provides value engineering opportunities depending on load requirements; a minimum fastener pattern can reduce installed fasteners by up to four per connector, lowering labor costs without compromising compliance. Its unique design also allows connectors to be doubled up for increased capacity where needed.

In addition, by keeping purlins aligned, the connector eliminates staggered roof panel fasteners, reducing risk of misinstallation.

“The innovative design of the PFPS24 purlin splice connector enhances its versatility and simplifies installation,” said Randy Daudet, group product manager for Simpson Strong-Tie. “As a result, post frame construction is stronger, faster and more efficient.”

The PFPS24 purlin splice connector is fully tested to ensure strength, durability and peace of mind for specifiers and builders. It provides tested load values for both nail and screw fastening options. To learn more, visit www. strongtie.com

About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.

Simpson Strong-Tie is the world leader in structural solutions — products and technology that help people design and build safer, stronger homes, buildings, and communities. As a pioneer in the building industry, we have an unmatched passion for problem solving through skillful engineering and thoughtful innovation. Our structural systems research and rigorous testing enable us to design code-listed, value-engineered solutions for a multitude of applications in wood, steel, and concrete structures. Our dedication to pursuing ever-better construction products and technology and to surrounding our customers with exceptional service and support has been core to our mission since 1956. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Simpson Strong-Tie Launches MPSC™, an Innovative High-Capacity Connection for Mass Timber Structures

August 8, 2025, Pleasanton, Calif. — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has introduced the MPSC™ mass timber point-supported column connection. By supporting mass timber floor panels while simultaneously transferring the download from the column above without crushing the floor, the MPSC unlocks the potential of post-and-plate mass timber buildings.

“Post-and-plate structures use the mass timber panels’ two-way span capabilities, eliminating the need for floor beams and girders,” said Michael Weinert, senior product manager for Simpson Strong-Tie. “These structures have reduced column grid spacing, optimized clear floor height, and simplified horizontal mechanical, electrical and plumbing routing. The MPSC column connection makes designing and installing such post-and-plate structures easier and more efficient.”

Thanks to its innovative design, the MPSC column connection’s top and bottom halves easily slot together onsite and connect in seconds with a single bolt, helping to minimize crane time. The connection has a high download capacity in five load ratings from 100 to 300 kips, and it allows column rocking to provide seismic deformation compatibility.

The MPSC column connection is configurable to accommodate a range of panel thicknesses and panel support area requirements. It allows for up to 1/4” of vertical adjustability using shim plates. In addition, the bolt holes can be used as a rigging attachment point for column lifting.

To learn more, visit www.strongtie.com

About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.

4Ward Solutions Group Partners with BotBuilt to Bring Cutting-Edge Robotics to Offsite Construction

Stanwood, WA, August 2025 – 4Ward Solutions Group, a leader in operational consulting and advanced technologies for the offsite construction industry, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with BotBuilt, a pioneer in robotics for homebuilding and construction automation. This partnership will expand 4Ward’s offerings by representing BotBuilt’s state-of-the-art robotic systems and their newest automated design and estimating software to offsite manufacturers including component and modular construction professionals across North America.

BotBuilt’s robotic solutions redefine how components are designed, manufactured, framed, and assembled offering unmatched speed, precision, and labor optimization. These robotic systems, when integrated with 4Ward’s automation and process design expertise, provide clients with end-to-end modernization, transforming traditional facilities into next-generation smart factories.

“The future of industrialized construction lies in automation,” said Ben Hershey, CEO of 4Ward Solutions Group. “Partnering with BotBuilt allows us to bring advanced robotic systems to our customers with the support and strategic planning they need to succeed. BotBuilt’s products are not only powerful, they align with our Moducore Factory iQ™ strategy and digital twin modeling services, giving our clients a true leap forward in productivity and innovation.”

This partnership goes beyond hardware. BotBuilt’s new estimating and component design software, built with AI-driven modeling at its core, integrates directly with digital planning environments, helping builders reduce material waste, improve pricing accuracy, and streamline workflows. When paired with 4Ward’s own business solution software, Moducore, design, and workforce services, it forms a transformative ecosystem tailored to the offsite sector

“4Ward Solutions Group has a proven track record of delivering transformative value to offsite manufacturers,” said Brent Wadas, CEO of BotBuilt. “By teaming up with 4Ward, we’re putting our world leading robotics and software in the hands of companies ready to build smarter, faster, and with greater precision than ever before.”

This partnership supports 4Ward’s broader strategic goals of enhancing the digital transformation of the building industry, offering Factory iQ™ solutions, and driving modernization through lean management, automation, and workforce development. For more information on how to integrate BotBuilt’s robotics or estimating software into your facility, visit www.4WardSolutionsGroup.com or contact info@4wardconsult.com.

About 4Ward Solutions Group

4Ward Solutions Group provides consulting, design, labor, and technology services specifically tailored to the offsite construction and manufacturing industries. With expertise in lean operations, robotics, Moducore ERP, and workforce development, 4Ward is a trusted partner for firms seeking to launch, optimize, and scale their operations.

About BotBuilt

BotBuilt is revolutionizing homebuilding through intelligent robotics, providing automation solutions that reduce labor constraints and improve construction outcomes. Their autonomous systems and software are designed to work seamlessly with modern manufacturing environments, enabling the next era of efficient, scalable building.

ProTec Panel and Truss to Expand in Battle Creek, Creating 50 New Jobs

LANSING, Mich., August 21, 2025 – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced three business expansions in Calhoun, Kent and Kalkaska counties. In total, over $31 million in capital investment and the creation of nearly 200 new jobs. ProTec Panel and Truss is expanding in Battle Creek, investing $3 million and creating 50 new jobs. Weiss Technick NA is planning $25.6 million of capital investment along with the creation of 36 new jobs. WarBird Protection will be investing $3 million in Kalkaska while creating 110 new jobs.

“Today’s announcements will build on Michigan’s economic momentum, creating nearly 200 good-paying manufacturing jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “I want to thank Warbird, Protec, and Weiss Technik for choosing to invest in Michigan. Let’s keep working together to strengthen our economic development tools so we can help more workers and businesses make it in Michigan.”

“Today, we are once again proud to share the exciting news of companies choosing to invest in communities across Michigan— creating new jobs and fueling local economies,” said Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the MEDC. “We continue to see both new businesses drawn to Michigan and homegrown companies expanding here because we have the right economic development tools in place to support and secure these vital investments. We applaud these companies and look forward to their continued growth and prosperity.”

ProTec Panel & Truss Manufacturing, LLC is a manufacturer of engineered wood roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels along with supplying framing lumber packages. They design and build custom engineered components for residential, agricultural, multifamily, and commercial projects using the latest design software and manufacturing equipment.

“Battle Creek is the perfect second location for us,” said Shane Soule, President of ProTec Panel & Truss. “It positions us closer to the heart of Michigan’s growth and gives us better access to legacy manufacturing talent. This move is about more than expanding our reach—it’s about delivering greater value, speed, and support to the partners who count on us.”

The company has purchased a vacant building in Battle Creek for their expansion that will allow the company to establish a Michigan footprint while also meeting its growing customer demand. Customers include construction companies for commercial and residential properties. Their expansion into Michigan is anticipated to generate $3 million in capital investment while creating at least 50 new jobs with starting wages $25 per hour plus benefits, nearly $4 per hour above the regional media wage. Support for this project has been approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund through a Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant in the amount of $300,000.

“We are pleased to welcome ProTec Panel & Truss to Battle Creek,” said Joe Sobieralski, President & CEO of Battle Creek Unlimited. “This project will return a long-neglected property to productive use and create as many as 50 high-paying new jobs. As a manufacturer of roof & floor trusses and wall panels, ProTec will also help to address Michigan’s critical housing shortage. We are grateful to the MEDC for their generous support and look forward to ProTec starting production later this year.” The company has chosen Michigan for the project because of the growth opportunities that the Michigan market presents and the access to legacy manufacturing talent in the Battle Creek labor market.

Read the complete press release online: Gov. Whitmer Announces 196 New Jobs Coming to Calhoun, Kent, and Kalkaska Counties

84 Lumber Launches New Building Component Aimed at Reducing Build Time

August 8, 2025—84 Lumber is excited to announce its newest building component – 84 Vertical. This new program started in Denver, Colorado, and is now available in other markets such as Atlanta, Georgia; Nashville, Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; and Indianapolis, Indiana.

This new service is an extension of the company’s expanding component services. Optimized lumber packages will be available through design, fostering better wood utilization and less waste – a greener process that will reduce the amount of wood used to build the average home, and lower jobsite disposal expenses. 84 Vertical also aims at reducing build cycle time. Materials will be shipped labeled, pre-cut, and ready to assemble, which will allow for faster assembly, producing a safer build with fewer jobsite injuries.

“We’re ‘exactimating,’ not estimating,” said Jim Abbott, EWP vice president at 84 Lumber. “We are excited to launch 84 Vertical, and we know our customers are ready for this program. The goal is to better serve our customers and help them build more efficiently and accurately.”

The creation of the program was in response to demand in a competitive market as 84 Lumber wanted to expand product and service offerings to meet the needs of customers. For more information on this new service, click here to watch a video.

84 Lumber is the leading supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company currently operates 320 facilities in 34 states which include stores, component manufacturing plants, engineered wood product (EWP) centers and door shops. To learn more, visit www.84Lumber.com or follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. For career opportunities, visit www.84Lumber.com/careers

About 84 Lumber

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Co. is the nation’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company operates 320 facilities which include stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, and engineered wood product centers in 34 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking, and drywall. For more information, visit 84lumber.com and join us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Builders FirstSource Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

July 31, 2025 – Builders FirstSource, Inc. reported its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. All are year-over-year comparisons unless otherwise noted. The Second Quarter 2025 Highlights are:

• Net sales were $4.2 billion, a 5.0% decrease, driven by lower core organic net sales and commodity deflation, partially offset by growth from acquisitions.

• Gross profit margin decreased 210 basis points to 30.7%, primarily driven by Single- and Multi-Family margin normalization as well as a below-normal starts environment.

• Net income was $185.0 million, or diluted EPS of $1.66 compared to diluted EPS of $2.87 in the prior year period. Net income as a percent of net sales decreased by 330 basis points to 4.4%.

• Adjusted EBITDA decreased 24.4% to $506.1 million, primarily driven by lower gross profit.

• Adjusted EBITDA margin declined by 300 basis points to 12.0%, attributable to lower gross margin and reduced operating leverage.

• Cash provided by operating activities was $341.0 million, a decrease of $111.0 million compared to the prior year period. The Company’s free cash flow was $255.0 million, a decrease of 30.5%, compared to $366.7 million in the prior year period. The decrease was primarily driven by lower net income.

• The Company repurchased 3.3 million shares of common stock at an average price of $118.27 for $390.9 million, inclusive of applicable fees and taxes.

Peter Jackson, CEO of Builders FirstSource, commented: “Our durable results in the second quarter reinforce the advantage of our differentiated product offerings and commitment to execution. In this challenging market environment, we are prioritizing what’s within our control—serving customers with excellence, leveraging technology, and managing the business with discipline. We remain focused on building for the future through investments in value-added solutions, digital capabilities, and operational efficiency. These efforts are strengthening our position in the industry and laying the foundation to emerge stronger and accelerate delivery of longterm shareholder value as market conditions improve.”

Pete Beckmann, CFO of Builders FirstSource, added, “We continue to benefit from the strength and adaptability of our operating model. By executing consistently through the cycle, we are generating strong free cash flow and preserving financial flexibility. We remain disciplined in our capital deployment with a focus on maintaining a healthy balance sheet and investing in high-return opportunities. Our scale, operational rigor, and talented team give us confidence in our ability to deliver solid results and compound value into the future.”

Read the complete press release online.

About Builders FirstSource

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Builders FirstSource is the largest U.S. supplier of building products, prefabricated components, and value-added services to the professional market segment for new residential construction and repair and remodeling. We operate in 43 states with approximately 585 locations, and we service customers from strategically located distribution and manufacturing facilities that produce value-added products such as roof and floor trusses, wall panels, stairs, vinyl windows,

Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition Celebrates a Highly Successful Girls Construction Summer Camp

August 22, 2025 – The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, in partnership with Whitbeck Construction and WSWHE BOCES, proudly wrapped up another highly successful Girls Construction Summer Camp at the Whitbeck Construction Education Center in Gansevoort, New York.

The camp continues to serve as an innovative and hands-on program designed to introduce young women to the many rewarding career paths available in the construction industry. With only 11% of the construction workforce made up of females nationwide, the initiative seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of builders, leaders, and trades professionals.

The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition was originally founded by Doug Ford and Pam Stott (formerly) of Curtis Lumber and became a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization in 2023. Since then, the coalition has expanded its outreach and impact by building partnerships and creating opportunities to strengthen the future of the skilled trades workforce.

Over two week-long sessions held July 21–25 and July 28–August 1, girls in grades 6 through 8 were immersed in a unique blend of hands-on learning, teamwork, and creative problemsolving. Campers gained confidence using tools, applying math and science concepts, and completing real-world projects such as toolboxes, benches, and Adirondack chairs. The program also featured construction site and business field trips, offering a firsthand look at the many career opportunities in today’s construction industry.

One of the highlights of the camp was the Construction Olympics, where campers showcased their new skills in a spirited, team-based competition. “This camp is all about opening doors and driving awareness,” said Doug Ford co-founder and President of the NCTWC. “Every year we see the transformation—girls who come in unsure of themselves leave with confidence, skills, and the realization that they can succeed in this industry. That is the heart of what this program is about.”

The success of the Girls Construction Summer Camp reflects the Coalition’s ongoing commitment to addressing workforce challenges while building the next generation of leaders in the trades. By giving young women early exposure to construction, the program not only helps fill a growing industry need but also ensures a more diverse, innovative, and inclusive future workforce.

The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition is a collaboration of industry leaders, educators, and businesses dedicated to strengthening the construction workforce pipeline through education, awareness, outreach, and hands-on training programs.

Curtis Lumber has been an LMC Dealer since 1966.

Home Depot Foundation Invests $10 Million in Skilled Trades Training

August 20, 2025—As students nationwide return to school, The Home Depot Foundation is investing $10 million to broaden access to skilled trades training and education. This investment includes a new $1 million partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), designed to introduce more young people to career opportunities in the construction trades.

Through the Foundation’s Path to Pro program – focused on helping to fill the skilled labor gap – the partnership with BGCA launches a two-year pilot in Boys & Girls Clubs across Atlanta, Phoenix and Houston that will introduce more than a thousand children and teens to careers in carpentry, electrical, HVAC and plumbing. Integrated within Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Life & Workforce Readiness Program, Club members will learn new skills, gain hands-on experiences and have opportunities to apply their skills by working alongside Team Depot, The Home Depot’s associate volunteer force, on community-based projects.

“The skilled trades offer some of the most promising career paths, yet many young people either aren’t aware of or lack access to these opportunities,” said Erin Izen, executive director of The Home Depot Foundation. “This investment in our Path to Pro nonprofit partners – including our new partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America – empowers students to hone these new skills while also strengthening the future of the construction industry.”

Despite approximately 400,000 job openings in the skilled construction trades, only a small fraction of young workers entering the labor market express interest in pursuing careers in these fields. A study by Home Builders Institute (HBI) and the University of Denver projects this workforce gap could cost the residential construction industry $10.8 billion due to longer build times and a loss of production on single-family homes. With many skilled trades workers retiring in the coming decade, early exposure to these careers is vital to build a sustainable pipeline of talent.

“At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we’re committed to helping young people explore meaningful opportunities that set them up for success,” said Jennifer Bateman, senior vice president of youth development. “This partnership with The Home Depot Foundation opens doors to skilled trades careers, empowering thousands of youth to discover their potential and build great futures.”

Beyond the partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, this investment also helps expand programming with existing partners, such as HBI, which will use funds to grow its pre-apprenticeship certification to nearly 2,000 more high school students and 25 additional schools; continue its initiative with 100 Black Men of America; and maintain its military transition programs focused on trades training, certification and job placement.

New grants will also support separating service members, military families and veterans, such as through Folds of Honor scholarships for those entering or enrolling in accredited trade schools. Construction Ready and SkillPointe Foundation will also receive funding for classroom and hands-on training and scholarships that will help pave the way for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

These Foundation initiatives co-exist alongside the company’s Path to Pro programs, including the free online Skills Program and the Path to Pro Network, which now has a database of more than 65,000 candidates seeking employment in the skilled trades.

NEWs

Statistics Canada: Investment in Building Construction, June 2025

August 19, 2025—Investment in building construction rose $454.4 million to $22.7 billion in June. The residential sector rose 3.1%, while the non-residential sector edged down 0.5%. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 8.0% in June. On a constant dollar basis (2023=100), the value of investment in building construction in June rose 1.6% from the previous month and was up 4.2% year over year.

Rise in residential building construction investment

Investment in residential building construction rose $485.3 million (+3.1%) to $15.9 billion in June. The increase was driven by the multi-unit component (+4.2%), followed by the single-family component (+1.8%). In June, multi-unit construction investment increased $362.3 million to $9.1 billion. Gains were led by Quebec (+$125.2 million), followed by British Columbia (+$72.7 million). Investment in single-family home construction grew by $123.0 million to $6.9 billion in June. The increase in the single-family component was led by Quebec (+$68.4 million), followed by Ontario (+$36.3 million). Overall, seven provinces and two territories contributed to the increase in this component.

Investment in non-residential building construction declines

The value of investment in non-residential building construction edged down $30.8 million to $6.7 billion in June. All three components in the non-residential sector—industrial (-1.9%), institutional (-0.1%) and commercial (-0.1%)—decreased. The industrial component declined $27.3 million to $1.4 billion in June, marking the fifth consecutive monthly decrease. Losses were led by Quebec (-$13.5 million) and, to a lesser extent, Ontario (-$6.8 million). The institutional component edged down $1.8 million to $2.0 billion in June, with decreases being recorded in six provinces and three territories, led by Quebec (-$9.8 million). The declines were partially offset by increases in Alberta (+$5.0 million) and British Columbia (+$2.9 million). Investment in the commercial component was slightly down, decreasing $1.7 million to $3.3 billion in June. Declines in the commercial component were led by Ontario (-$9.7 million) and British Columbia (-$3.2 million) and were tempered by an increase in Quebec (+$10.9 million).

Second quarter summary: Investment in building construction increases

The value of investment in building construction was $67.4 billion in the second quarter, virtually unchanged from the previous quarter. Year over year, investment in building construction grew by 8.5%. Investment in residential building construction edged up 0.2% to $47.1 billion in the second quarter. This increase was driven by the multi-unit component, which rose 1.5%, while the single-family component declined 1.4%. Investment in non-residential building construction decreased 0.6% to $20.3 billion in the second quarter. Decreases in the industrial (-3.8%) and commercial (-1.0%) components were partially offset by an increase in the institutional component (+2.2%).

For more information on construction, please visit the Construction statistics portal. For more information on housing, please visit the Housing statistics portal

707-333-4507

Designer-Truss and Wall Panel

HZ00018 | Arizona, USA

Under the direction of the Design Manager, the Structural Designer at FrameTec is responsible for creating structural designs and project estimating for Camp Verde, AZ Operations (FrameTec Alpha). You will be part of a team of Structural Designers responsible for the complete design of structural framing components (wall panels and trusses), lumber and hardware estimates and turnkey framing bids. You will be part of the team that creates the front-end design and quoting process for FrameTec Alpha, including estimating, preconstruction coordination, value engineering and quality control. This position requires both technical design and estimating

Designer-Truss HZ00004 | Florida, USA

A leading provider of building materials is seeking experienced Truss Designers to join its growing design team. This is a full-time position with remote, hybrid, or in-office flexibility. The ideal candidate will have strong MiTek software experience and a solid understanding of roof and floor truss design for residential and commercial projects.

Estimator

HZ00019 | Texas, USA

We are seeking a seasoned Lumber Estimator with hands-on expertise in structural framing take-offs for both residential and light commercial projects. This role is highly specialized and requires experience in estimating complete framing packages for:

• Single-family residences

• Custom home projects

• Multi-family developments (apartments, duplexes, townhomes, condos)

• Light commercial or office structures requiring structural lumber

Outside Sales Representative

HZ00012 | New York, USA

We’re looking for a results-oriented

HiriNg-ZoNE

Outside Sales Representative to drive sales of engineered wood products (EWP) within a defined territory of Eastern and Central NY, and New England. This role involves working closely with building supply dealers and design professionals to promote and grow product usage.

The ideal candidate will bring a solid knowledge of structural framing systems and building materials, along with a proven ability to build strong customer relationships and close sales.

Designer-Multifamily

HZ00008 | Texas, USA

We have a client in Texas who needs Remote Multifamily Truss Designer(s) familiar with the Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and DFW areas. In addition to Texas, they sell to multiple other states. They have multiple plants and are bringing on another plant this year. If you inquire about this job, know that we will represent you to the best of our ability. With over 30 years of experience, The JobLine is your source for career moves that offer advancement and better-than-average compensation. Strictly Confidential!

Your compensation will include a base salary plus 1% of everything you produce over your threshold. They are looking for multiple designers, so bring your best co-workers. I can help them too and pay you for the referral!

Design Manager

HZ00002 | Florida, USA

We’re seeking an experienced Truss Design Manager to lead and mentor a team of truss designers for a wellestablished manufacturer in Central Florida. With two distinct opportunities available, you can choose the one that best fits your lifestyle.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience using MiTek software and a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role, overseeing both in-office and remote design staff.

You’ll be responsible for scheduling and balancing design workloads, conducting training on new design processes, and ensuring adherence to code, specifications, and quality standards. This role includes reviewing architectural and structural plans, coordinating job releases to the plant, and communicating with customers to resolve design challenges

Designer-Multifamily

HZ00017 | Texas, USA

A growing building components manufacturer in Texas is hiring an experienced Truss Designer for an in-office role, with potential flexibility for remote work depending on qualifications. This is a privately owned operation where your contributions are recognized—no corporate layers or national chains.

In business since the 1960s, this company delivers roof and floor trusses, wall panels, and stocked lumber products to a loyal customer base of home builders and commercial contractors. Projects include tract homes, custom builds, light commercial structures, and multifamily developments.

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Visit our booth to experience what’s new and improved— including hands-on demos and insights—only at BCMC.

September 29 - October 3, 2025 | Omaha, NE

MII.COM/BCMC

Free MiTek training sessions on software, services, and other educational topics are available.

Joe Kannapell, P.E.

The Last Word

Why Go to the BCMC Show?

Even in slower years, you can benefit, both professionally and personally, from attending the Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC), as I have. Some gains may accrue over a longer period of time, but there are always people to meet and things to see at the Show. Even if your company isn’t sending you, you should consider going on your own. If you’re like me and have hitched your wagon to this industry, you need to keep abreast of what is going on for the good of your company, and for your own good.

When I was brand new to the industry, I couldn’t wait to learn if I could build a career in it. I begged for a ride from a coworker and got to the opening of the Industrial Building Exposition (INBEX) show in Louisville in 1972. There I was struck immediately by the enthusiasm around the flashy modular home displays, in marked contrast to those of the component industry. However, the much larger component industry presence the following year yielded record machinery sales, outshining the activity at the modular industry displays, and foreshadowing a brighter future for our industry. In the next year, 1974, the economy collapsed and the INBEX Show was canceled, but the component industry was still growing and needed a central place to evaluate machinery and connector offerings.

A new venue, the Build Expo in Chicago, was selected in 1976 and, although it was homebuilder focused, it became the site of the very first demo of an in-house computer. In a small room off the main floor of the massive McCormick Place, a crowd was awed by the capabilities of Lenny Sylk’s Forest Products System. That innovation created the need for a larger and more industry-focused event, one in which component manufacturers could view actual machinery instead of just seeing videos, and where they could also see computer innovations. Thus, the BCMC Show came to life in 1980 in the brand new Commonwealth Convention Center in Louisville, and BCMC began the showcasing of industry-changing innovations and personal growth opportunities.

Throughout the 1980s, the show alternated between machinery shows in Louisville and tabletop, computer-oriented shows across the country, but all were ideal venues in which to collaborate with peers. At the 1986 Louisville Show, I managed to drum up some truss sales for my faltering plant in Texas. In 1987, after I was laid off, I went to the Las Vegas Show on my own and found a new job at TruTrus in Phoenix. When my wife was wilting in the Arizona heat, I used the industry contacts I had made through BCMC and other industry events to find work at a truss plant in Virginia, where I continued to benefit from my BCMC experiences.

September 29 - October 3, 2025 Omaha, NE

At the Nashville Show in 1988, one of the most consequential innovations debuted — automated puck technology. I found myself standing next to one of the industry’s titans, Dick Rotto, the owner of Trussway, who was uncharacteristically impressed with the groundbreaking Alpine AutoSet display. Although the system needed refinement, sales took off as Koskovich showed his Jet Set at BCMC in 1995, and later when Clyde Fredrickson showed his Wizard. Today, automated puck systems are standard equipment at most plants.

The 2000 Show featured a David vs. Goliath type of face off, and radically changed 40 years of established sawing practice. On one side of a show aisle was a little-known component manufacturer, Jim Urmson, with his TCT web saw. On the other side was an industry veteran equipment executive, Dave McAdoo of Alpine, with his ALS. Through an unbelievable force of will, Dave had delivered the ALS after only 105 days of development (see “One Hundred Five Days in 2022”) and he captivated the Show floor by cutting a near perfect, 36” long scarf cut on a 2x4 with a single pass. While Dave’s impressive demonstration captured the spotlight, his ALS needed another year of development, whereas Jim began cranking out orders right after the Show, and went on to develop an amazing business.

Last year in Milwaukee, we were greeted by a robot automatically picking truss plates, which actually was pioneered by Jim Urmson’s 2009 venture, TCT Robotics. And today, that technology is making its way onto the floor of several plants.

These are only a few of the game-changing advances previewed and ultimately delivered by BCMC across the country for over 50 years. With recent shows being held closer to the center of the country, ideal convention-oriented cities are now the site of this annual tradition. We as return for our third BCMC in Omaha, Nebraska, you too should make plans to attend this excellent venue.