2018 June Hardwood Matters by National Hardwood Lumber Association

TH E VOIC E O F THE HARDWOOD IN DUSTRY

H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S Ju n e 20 1 8

Could Automation and Optimization be the Answer to Labor Issues?

plus STORM THE HALLS OF CAPTIAL HILL EDUCATION, THE KEY TO MAKING YOUR BUSINESS PROFITABLE

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E N AT I O N A L H A R D W O O D L U M B E R A S S O C I AT I O N S T R O N G R O O T S . G L O B A L R E A C H . | W W W. N H L A . C O M

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CONTENTS June 2018 • Issue 190

WHAT'S INSIDE

ONLINE

feature

instant

13 Could Automation and Optimization be the Answer to Labor Issues?

TOP POST OF THE MONTH at facebook.com/NHLAOfficial

departments

8 Accolades 10 Legislative Log 20 Rules Corner

reader services 4 6 22 24

President’s Message In The News Educational Calendar Job Board

Have you seen what mikeroweWORKS is doing for the trade industry? Please forward this link to those in need of a scholarship.

nhla.com WHY SHOULD YOU BECOME A MEMBER OF NHLA? TORONTO 2018 SAVE THE DATE OCT. 2-4

20 Follow us

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H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWO O D I N D U ST RY National Hardwood Lumber Association PO Box 34518 • Memphis, TN 38184-0518 901-377-1818 • 901-382-6419 (fax) info@nhla.com • www.nhla.com

THE MISSION OF NH LA To serve NHLA Members engaged in the commerce of North American hardwood lumber by: maintaining order, structure and ethics in the changing global hardwood marketplace; providing unique member services; promoting North American hardwood lumber and advocating the interest of the hardwood community in public/private policy issues; and providing a platform for networking opportunities.

ADVERTISER INDEX 12

Ally Global Logistics

Autolog, Inc.

Brunner-Hildebrand Lumber Dry Kiln Co.

Continental Underwriters, Inc.

MISSION LEADERS

Brent Stief Huron Forest Products President

Jon Syre Cascade Hardwood LLC Unique Services

Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Vice President

Nordeck Thompson Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods Rules

Pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Past President 2014-2016

Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Structure

NHLA STAFF

Mike Powers Maley & Wertz Industry Advocacy & Promotion

Lorna D. Christie CEO l.christie@nhla.com Amanda Hinesley Marketing Manager a.hinesley@nhla.com Renee Hornsby Director of Communications/Editor r.hornsby@nhla.com

■■■ Trisha Clariana Office Manager Desirée Freeman Controller

5 DMSi

Julia Ganey Member Relations Manager

EBI Dry Kiln Duty Motors

Rich Hascher Inspector Training School Instructor

Heli Americas

Jim C. Hamer Co.

John Hester Director of Membership and Business Development

Kamps Hardwoods, Inc.

Carol McElya Accounting Assistant & Publications

King City/Northway Forwarding

Malaysian Timber Council

Becky Miller Inspector Training School Administrator

IFC Pike Lumber Company, Inc. 19 RossiGroup 21

TRN USA Forest, LLC

U•C Coatings, LLC

For advertising inquiries: Contact John Hester, Director of Membership at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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Vicky Quiñones Simms Membership Development Manager Dana Spessert Chief Inspector

Kevin Gillette Tioga Hardwoods Membership & Networking COMMITTEE CHAIRS Dave Mayfield Mayfield Lumber Co. Membership Dave Bramlage Cole Hardwood, Inc. Promotion & Advocacy Garner Robinson Robinson Lumber Convention Pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Nominating Steve Jones Ron Jones Hardwood Sales, Inc Inspection Services Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Finance Bucky Pescaglia Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. ITS/Continuing Education Stephanie VanDystadt DV Hardwoods, Inc. Communications & Marketing Joe Snyder Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Rules Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Strategic Planning W W W. N H L A .C O M

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

SPRING BOARD MEETING REPORTS The Association on Track and Ready for New Opportunities

HLA just held its spring Board of Managers meeting in Phoenix, Arizona. The staff and Board continue to provide the leadership you expect from your Association. There is less dramatic news to report this time, as our operational plan is becoming the norm rather than something dramatically new and improved.

Will Novy-Hildesley of the North American Forest Partnership joined us to discuss the idea of collaborative forest industry promotion. Will spoke for over an hour on how we could accomplish so much more in promoting working (useable) forests, if we did it together with other similar industries. This includes softwood, paper, plywood, the likes of Kimberley Clark, as well as those who access the forests for recreation like hunters, fishermen and hikers. As a huge group we can deliver a message that forests are of maximum value to all of society if they are maintained professionally and harvested sustainably. We need to realize that society as a group doesn’t really differentiate between hardwood and softwoods, nor do they realize that a forest is dynamic and is always growing and capturing carbon but if it is not harvested, the results are not favorable to society as a whole. People like products from the forest, just not the thought of how they result from cutting down trees. The general populous does not understand that carbon capture and overall greenness is enhanced by responsible forestry. The NAFP offers us a chance to economically partner with a large group to get the message out. They are already using many well designed and efficient social media platforms to reach large audiences. An added bonus, NHLA CEO Lorna Christie has been invited to join the NAFP board. Our industry has struggled with how to fund and implement a serious promotion strategy. This may be an excellent chance.

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A final take-away from the spring meeting was the formation of a bylaws task force to oversee the transformation of our current bylaws structure into the 21st century. Many of the current practices have moved beyond what was written 100 years ago. In the months ahead, we will be reporting in detail what changes are necessary and we will communicate those changes in Hardwood Matters and our other communication outlets. I have previously commented on the new Yield Analysis consulting work being offered by the Inspection Services department. A few contracts have already been completed and more are already on the books. The results for these participating companies have been exceptionally rewarding. Give Chief Inspector Dana Spessert a call to see if this Yield Analysis study may be right your company. We have also had good success with the sales of advertising bundles to both active and sustaining members. This idea is gathering steam and is proving to be very beneficial to advertisers and the Association. If you are looking for new avenues to promote your company to the hardwood industry, call John Hester, Director of Membership & Business Development. Financially the Association is delivering its programs on budget and has adequate resources to fund what we currently have planned. Please know your NHLA staff and Board are active in delivering you value as well as planning for the future. Regards,

Brent Stief, NHLA President | Huron Forest Products brent@huronfp.com

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IN THE NEWS

FURNITURE MAKER BENDS WOOD LIKE SHAPING PLASTIC Kartell, an Italian company known for producing plastic furniture, has unveiled its first wooden furniture line - and it's made the same way as plastic furniture. Thanks to a proprietary technology and a special patent, the wood in the "Woody" collection is machined with a mold that extends the curvature of a panel, creating a chair frame with sinuous curves. OTHER TECHNOLOGY EXAMPLES: Pure Timber’s Cold-Bend hardwood is actual hardwood that has been subjected to carefully controlled, but intense longitudinal thermo-mechanical compression. It has been engineered to be extremely flexible, so long as it is moist. Once cold-bent by hand - or with jigs, clamps and fixtures - Cold-Bend is dried to fix the shape.

EPA Endorses Carbon Neutrality of Forest Biomass Energy EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt issued a policy statement endorsing the carbon neutrality of forest biomass energy. Below are a few notable items from the EPA policy statement. “[T]his statement of policy is intended to: 1) provide clear recognition of the benefits of using forest biomass for energy production at stationary sources; and 2) signal the Agency’s intent to treat the biogenic CO2 emissions associated with the use of forest biomass for energy by stationary sources as carbon neutral in future regulatory actions and in various programmatic contexts, in accordance with the Executive Orders and Congressional direction described above.” “U.S. forests have been historically and are currently a net sink of carbon; in 2015, the forest sector offset approximately 11.2 percent of gross U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Use of biomass for bioenergy can support the management of U.S. forests and can lead to increased carbon sequestration from U.S. forests over time.” To view the entire EPA policy statement https://www.epa.gov/ sites/production/files/2018-04/documents/biomass_policy_statement_2018_04_23.pdf

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http://www.puretimber.com

AMERICA'S FIRST AI DEGREE COMING THIS FALL TO CARNEGIE MELLON May 10, 2018 The Pittsburgh, Penn.-based university will offer a new undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence starting this fall. AI involves using computer systems to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as driving. “Specialists in artificial intelligence have never been more important, in shorter supply or in greater demand by employers,” said Andrew Moore, dean of the university’s School of Computer Science. https://ai.cs.cmu.edu W W W. N H L A .C O M

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ACCOLADES

Congratulations

Milestone Members NHLA would like to recognize our members who are celebrating a milestone anniversary of 5 years or more during the month of May.

5 YEARS Paul Bontrager | Active U1 | June 2013

20 YEARS Cleereman Industries, Inc. | Sustaining | June 1998

Welcome New Members

ACTIVE U1 MEMBERS J. Gibson McIlvain Company / White Marsh, MD Timberland Forest Products / West Plains, MO Upper Cumberland Hardwoods, Inc. / Monticello, KY ACTIVE U2 MEMBER James Ritter Lumber Co., Inc. / Summer Shade, KY ASSOCIATE MEMBERS La-Z-Boy / Dayton, TN LW Flooring/PL Lumber / Gainesville, FL PARTNER MEMBER Oaple Forest Products / Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON Canada SUSTAINING MEMBERS Farm Credit Mid America / Springfield, TN Messersmith Manufacturing, Inc. / Bark River, MI Point Global Logistics / Asheville, NC Woodeye / Alpharetta, GA

Brunner-Hildebrand Lumber Dry Kiln Co. 7516 Highway 70 So., Suite 170 PO Box 210289 Nashville, TN 37221 Contact: Jos aan de Stegge

Brunner-Hildebrand is an industry leader with 15,000 lumber dry kiln installations worldwide. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse product line includes conventional kilns, green kilns, continuous kilns, vacuum kilns, and state-of-the-art automatic control systems. Direct fired and live steam pallet heat treating chambers, and pallet kilns are also offered. Parts and service available. 615-469-0745 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 615-469-0127 Email: info@brunner-hildebrand.com Website: www.brunner-hildebrand.com

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NHLA would like to THANK our Sustaining Members for their involvement and support of the Association; and encourage our Active and Association members to call on these companies when they need products or services. Support the Companies that Support You. For membership questions, contact John Hester, Director of Membership at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558.

SUSTAINING MEMBERS A. W. Stiles Contractor ACES Division of Kuehne + Nagel Inc AFS Energy Systems Ally Global Logistics LLC American Wood Technology, LLC Arch Wood Protection Inc. ASF Logistics Assured Partners BASYS Processing BB&T Insurance Services Forest Products Practice Blue Book Services, Inc. Brewco Inc. Brewer Machine and Parts, LLC Bruks Rockwood Brunner-Hildebrand Lumber Dry Kiln Co. Buckman Laboratories, Inc. Carbotech Cleereman Industries, Inc. Comact Equipment Inc. Connor & Gallagher OneSource Continental Underwriters Inc. Cooper Machine Co., Inc. Corley Manufacturing Co. Cornerstone Systems DMSi Dunavant Global Logistics Group Eagle Machinery & Supply, Inc. Ecole Forestiere De Duchesnay EHD - Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc. eLIMBS, LLC Euler Hermes North America Farm Credit Mid-America Forestry Systems, Inc. Fr. Meyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sohn NA LLC Froedge Machine & Supply Co., Inc. Fromm Packaging Systems Giorgio Gori USA, Inc. Gregory Poole Equipment Company Hardwood Market Report Hardwood Publishing Co., Inc. Hasko Inc. Heli Americas Indiana Stamp Co., Inc. Industrial Appraisal Company Industrial Vision Systems Inc. W W W. N H L A .C O M

Interglobo Morra N. A., Inc. ISK Biocides, Inc. Kiln-direct.com King City/Northway Forwarding Ltd. Laufer Group International Lico Machinery Inc. LiTS LLC Lucidyne Technlogies Lumberscout Lumberstocklists.com Mahild Drying Technologies GmbH Maple Flooring Manufacturers McCormick & Sons, Inc. McDonough Manufacturing Co. Messersmith Manufacturing, Inc. MiCROTEC Innovating Wood Millar Western Forest Products Ltd. Milltech Inventory Mgmt. Solutions Muhlbock North America Ltd. National Hardwood Magazine Nyle Systems Pardee & Curtin Lumber Co. LLC Paw-Taw-John Services, Inc. Pendu Manufacturing Inc. Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company Piche Inc. Point Global Logistics SCS Forest Products by Finna Group SII Dry Kilns Simply Computing International, Inc. System TM A/S T S Manufacturing Co. The Wood Geeks Timber Products Inspection, Inc. TJT Consulting / The Jacobs Team TMX Shipping Co. Tradelanes Inc. TradeTec Computer Systems Ltd. U-C Coatings, LLC USNR Van Meter Insurance Group Vinpac Lines WoodEye Wood-Mizer, LLC J U N E 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

LEGISLATIVE LOG

STORM THE HALLS OF CAPITOL HILL Join the Hardwood Federation Fly-In by DANA COLE, Executive Director Hardwood Federation

or students of politics, 2018 is turning out to be a fascinating year. The second year of the Trump Administration continues to move aggressively on the issues the President campaigned upon, finding both supporters and dissenters in the process. The mid-term elections on November 6 have been the topic for analysis, prognosticating, and debate practically since the day the President took office. And the Hardwood Federation continues to advocate for those issues that impact our industry the most, challenging in a divisive political climate, but by no means impossible. If you are one of the many members of the hardwood community that has been curious about the Hardwood Federation, thought about being more active, interested in coming to Washington, but haven’t been able to quite find the time, this is your year! Although D.C. will almost certainly slow down just prior to November 6, the two months following election day could see some big issues move, issues include the 2018 re-authorization of the Farm Bill which supports our export promotion efforts, energy titles that could expand use of woody biomass for energy, and congressional action on trade. The annual Fall Fly-In is the Hardwood Federation’s biggest, most anticipated and most important event of the year. Each fall members of the hardwood industry gather in Washington D.C. to walk . . . and sometimes run . . . the halls and tunnels of Congressional office buildings to meet with Representatives, Senators and staffs from their - and other important - states to tell their stories. Our goal is clear and consistent: To have industry leaders provide

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their personal and professional perspectives about what the most important issues affecting the industry are and how our businesses are being impacted . . . and what Congress can do about it. The election may turn over seats for the 2019 Congressional session, but we cannot ignore the work that will be done after the last ballot is counted . . . we need every voice possible to keep our issues on the front burner for the lame duck session. The 2018 Fly-In will be held September 11-13. This year we will be highlighting the future of the Hardwood industry by issuing special invitations to the young and emerging leaders in your companies. The Hardwood Manufacturers Association and the National Wood Flooring Association are hosting their emerging leaders groups in D.C. for special meetings and events . . . all are welcome to participate! The Hardwood Federation Fly-In is a busy few days, but we make every effort to prepare and brief attendees. This year’s agenda includes the following: Welcome Reception (September 11): Participants gather the night before to meet and network with colleagues old and new. Breakfast Briefing (September 12): The Hardwood Federation provides a detailed briefing on issues to be covered during meetings on the Hill, navigating the Congressional office buildings, and what to expect during your meetings.

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The annual Fall Fly-In is the Hardwood Federationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest, most anticipated and most important event of the year.

Capitol Hill Visits (September 12): Prior to the Fly-In, Federation staff will schedule meetings with your elected representatives or those you are interested in meeting. Participants attend meetings in small groups to demonstrate the depth and variety of the industry. HFPAC Events (September 12 & 13): Participants will gather for an evening reception with Republican members of Congress on the 12th followed by a dinner on Capitol Hill. After dinner, participants will enjoy an evening tour of D.C. iconic monuments. The next morning, we wind up the Fly-In with a morning breakfast reception with Democrats. There are additional opportunities to speak directly with members and acknowledge their support with a donation from the Hardwood Federation Political Action Committee.

We hope you will take the time to join us in Washington. NHLA members are spread throughout the country and their experience, insight and ideas should be shared directly with those who write the laws and legislation impacting their businesses and employees. While it is a commitment of both resources and time, it is a commitment that can have direct impact on your bottom line. The Hardwood Federation staff is proud to represent the industry in Washington, D.C. and over the years we have built excellent relationships with key members of Congress who look to us for advice and counsel on issues impacting the Hardwood industry. But when members hear from you, their constituents, employers in their district, and community leaders, the message takes on a special significance and impact.

Our special rate at the host hotel expires on August 7; be sure to make plans before it is too late! You may register for the Fly-In at www.hardwoodfederation.com. Please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact the Hardwood Federation staff at 202-463-2705 or dana.cole@hardwoodfederation.com if you have any questions or would like more information. W W W. N H L A .C O M

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WWW.ALLYGLOBALLOGISTICS.COM 781.544.3970 sazambo@allygloballogistics.com JACKSONVILLE, FL â&#x20AC;¢ NORWELL, MA

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COULD AUTOMATION AND OPTIMIZATION BE THE ANSWER TO LABOR ISSUES? NHLA exhibited at the East Coast Sawmill and Logging Equipment Exposition aka EXPO RICHMOND in May. Surrounded by hundreds of companies that supply equipment, supplies and services to the hardwood lumber industry; the exposition was a great time to ask the question “What trend do you see on the horizon that is going to impact the hardwood industry the most in the next 3-5 years?” The overwhelming response . . . automation and optimization. In some shape or form all aspects of the hardwood industry will be responding to more use of technology. Technology, once seen as only an investment afforded by large corporations, is now employed by small to mid-size companies with no sign of slowing down. Modern, competitive mills use lasers, sensors and scanners to track and sort and decide how to optimize cuts, while cameras check for accuracy to decrease waste and improve yield.

Lasers, scanners and x-ray technology is now used to determine grades. All of this technology is being utilized in an effort to “alleviate the labor shortage.” And while the labor issue may indeed be fueling interest in automation, the hardwood industry’s embracement of new technology may be the catalyst that inspires a younger generation to finally notice this industry. There is no doubt that as more technology is incorporated in to the operations, employees will need to be hardwood knowledgeable, position flexible and tech savvy. It is a changing environment and all signs suggest the business models on which the industry has long relied are changing. NHLA would love to hear your thoughts on this matter. Please email r.hornsby@nhla.com and share with us the answer to the question – “What technology trend do you see changing the hardwood industry over the next 3-5 years?”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT DV HARDWOODS

DV HARDWOODS’ COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION MAKES THERMALLY MODIFIED LUMBER A GOOD FIT

e all know that wood has a great story – sustainable, carbon neutral, and renewable, unlike any other building material. But why not a high-tech product as well? DV Hardwoods is excited to be part of making that happen.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DV HARDWOODS HAS ALWAYS LOOKED AHEAD TO NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATION SO LEADING THE WAY IN NEW TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION IN THERMALLY MODIFIED HARDWOODS WAS A NATURAL FIT. While CLT is getting much of the press recently, thermally modified hardwoods are an innovative way to create completely new applications and uses for hardwoods. Thermally modified lumber allows us to use hardwoods in new applications where it has never been used before. The American Hardwood Export Council recognizes thermal modification as a developing market with great potential for hardwood producers. Despite the market potential, many have been hesitant to jump in to this market. DV Hardwoods has always looked ahead to new technologies and opportunities for innovation so leading the way in new technology adoption in thermally modified hardwoods was a natural fit. DV Hardwoods was founded in 1992. Located just outside Montreal, Quebec, Canada, they are responsible for the sales of the LRFT sawmill producing close to 30 M BF / year. They also have a concentration yard where they are set up to produce both Random Width Random Length lumber as well as ripped lumber and components in thicknesses from 4/4 to 8/4. In 2012, a sister company, Torrexpert, was formed to specialize solely in the manufacturing of the highest quality thermally modified lumber. W W W. N H L A .C O M

SPECIALIZED TECHNOLOGY REQUIRED A specialty kiln is required to treat wood and turn it into thermally modified lumber. The wood is gradually heated to a temperature of 160 to 246 degrees Celsius under anoxic conditions (the absence of free oxygen in the air). The resulting lumber is physically altered, with a changed cellular wood structure. THERMALLY MODIFIED WOOD IS PHYSICALLY DIFFERENT. Thermal modification uses heat to remove organic compounds from the wood cells, so it will not absorb water, expand, contract, or provide nourishment for insects or fungi. The high heat produces a naturally durable wood that is permanently resistant to water, insects, and decay. No added chemicals mean the wood is not absorbing chemicals to be treated, but rather removing moisture, resulting in a more lightweight wood. Thermally modified lumber is also more dimensionally stable because it is less susceptible to cupping and warping. The wood has increased heat resistance and weather resistance as well. When properly maintained, it will not chip, rot, or warp over the years. The

high gradual heat process creates permanent reactions and gives the wood a rich, deep brown appearance. The darkened color brings an unexpected tropical look and adds a beautiful aesthetic quality. THE APPLICATIONS FOR THERMALLY MODIFIED LUMBER Due to its dimensional stability, thermally modified lumber is a good substrate to use for products that require a very stable material. Some of the most common applications are for moulding, architectural millwork, exterior siding, interior wall coverings, and furniture, as well as wide solid flooring and engineered flooring. “We are excited about the great potential for thermally modified products,” says President, Viateur Girard, “and DV Hardwoods is proud to be a leader in this inno-

vation. Our company was built on a foundation of respecting the environment through sustainable forest management and responsible sourcing. Thermally modified lumber continues to emphasize these priorities, providing high quality hardwoods. I look forward to being a part of making thermally modified products a mainstay in our industry.” SOURCES Hill, Callum. Wood Modification – Chemical, Thermal and Other Processes. John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2006. Kubojima, Y., Okano, T., Ohta, M., 2000. Bending Strength and Toughness of Heat-Treated Wood. Journal of Wood Science 46, pp. 8-15. Repellin, V. and Guyonnet, R. (2005) Evaluation of heat-treated wood swelling by differential scanning calorimetry in relation to chemical composition. Holzforschung, 59(1), 28-34.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Technology Forecast for Hardwood Matters:

New Solutions for End Tallying by HENRY GERMAN, DMSi Software

nd tallying bundles is a pain point for most hardwood businesses. It’s critical to account for every inch of inventory, but getting accurate measurements on random width/random length bundles is typically a manual process. It can be time-consuming and has the potential for human error. There has always been an opportunity for technology to solve this problem. The latest end tally solutions will leverage object recognition technology. Object recognition is a way for computers to interpret images. It’s advanced technology, but the concept is simple: teach software to identify objects based on shape. A good analogy for how this works is the way people recognize road signs. When you see a red octa-

gon, you know it means “STOP” without ever reading the words on the sign. Our brains instantly identify the item based on color and shape alone. Object recognition technology is already in wide use for consumer products. Facial recognition is a good example. Ever noticed how your smart phone can identify people in the photos you’ve taken? The software in your phone identifies human faces by looking for a specific cluster of shapes (eyes, the mouth, nose, forehead, etc.) Then, it catalogs each face based on “landmarks” such as the shape of someone’s jaw, the relative position of their nose, even the distance between their eyes. If the same combination of landmarks appears in multiple photos, the software determines the photos are showing the same person and categorizes them accordingly. The reason object recognition software is so effective is its use of machine learning. As programs are fed more information, they become more accurate. Let’s say you want to teach your software to pick out photos of happy people. You’d start by feeding the program images of smiling faces and telling it “these are happy people.” If the software showed you photos of people frowning, you’d simply tell it “no, those aren’t happy people,” and feed it more photos of smiling people. Eventually, the software would figure out happy people have mouths that curve up (smiling) instead of down (frowning).

Sales and Purchasing: Rob Kukowski, robk@kampshardwoods.com Tyler Kamps, tyler@kampshardwoods.com Joel Horling, joelh@kampshardwoods.com

Phone: 616-554-9339 Fax: 616-554-9779 WWW.KAMPSHARDWOODS.COM

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So, what does any of this have to do with hardwood lumber? Object recognition technology has huge potential as an inventory measurement tool for hardwood businesses. It would be possible to develop apps that could recognize the widths of individual boards in a bundle of lumber – all from a picture taken by a phone. The people who end tally would use a mobile device to take a photo of the bundle, and the app would determine the exact or rounded width of each board in a matter of seconds. No specialized equipment required, just a phone or tablet. W W W. N H L A .C O M

THE PEOPLE WHO END TALLY WOULD USE A MOBILE DEVICE TO TAKE A PHOTO OF THE BUNDLE, AND THE APP WOULD DETERMINE THE EXACT OR ROUNDED WIDTH OF EACH BOARD IN A MATTER OF SECONDS. NO SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT REQUIRED, JUST A PHONE OR TABLET.

Hardwood lumber does present a unique challenge for object recognition software because every board is unique. Irregularities may initially confuse some programs. This is why the software’s ability to learn is so valuable. Consider the issue of splits. An object recognition program might initially interpret splits as breaks, and count one board as two separate pieces. When you correct the program, (“no, that’s a single board”), not only would the app correct that record, it would remember your correction when interpreting similar images in the future. As the app is used more frequently, the more information it would gain and the more accurate it would become. Eventually, it would learn that if a split runs diagonally or if there’s a matching woodgrain on either side of a vertical split, the image is probably of a single board.

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In the coming years, the hardwood industry will see more object-recognition software products enter the market. Businesses interested in improving their end-tally processes should keep an eye out for solutions that fit their operations.

Henry German is Market Teams Manager for DMSi which provides inventory- and order-management software to the building materials industry. Henry works to ensure DMSi’s solutions address the unique needs of lumber businesses and will allow them to compete in evolving markets. Learn more at dmsi.com.

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d Map Maple • Soft Map Maple • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Map Maple • Soft Map Maple • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • A

HARDWOODS

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SALES Sales@rossilumber.com d Map Maple • Soft Map Maple • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Map Maple • Soft Map Maple • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • A www.rossigroup.net Middletown, CT, USA Ph 01 (860) 632 3505 Fax 01 (860) 613 3727

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d Maple • Soft Maple le • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Map Maple • Soft Map Maple • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tuli ulipwood • A

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d Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • A

d Maple • Soft Maple le • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Maple • Soft Maple le • Red Oak • White Oak • T Tulipwood • A

d Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • A

d Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • Ash • Cherry • Hard Maple • Soft Maple • Red Oak • White Oak ak • T Tulipwood • A W W W. N H L A .CO M

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 6 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

RULES CORNER

EDUCATION, THE KEY TO MAKING YOUR BUSINESS PROFITABLE by DANA SPESSERT, NHLA Chief Inspector

have observed a renewed interest in hardwood industry education for various manufacturing, sales and management positions. Historically, NHLA has educated the industry on lumber grading through the Inspector Training School in Memphis as well as short classes in the U.S., Canada and around the world. NHLA is currently developing a broader scope of educational offerings, and more information will be shared as the programs are finalized. In this industry, one thing that is difficult to explain is how the variances in hardwood lumber can be best utilized in the production of products. The very nature of hardwoods makes the process of selecting the proper pieces to make the dimension or parts for the manufacturer a somewhat daunting task. The varying colors, grain patterns, and defects that naturally occur in wood create uncertainty with the employees that are tasked with the job of getting the most out of every board. These employees must also maintain certain dimensions that suit their company’s products for the most return on investment. Manufacturing companies can sometimes overly restrict the usable material by adding unnecessary requirements to purchase orders. For example, “no pith” or “no stain”. These types of statements can be misunderstood and in most cases cost prohibitive for suppliers to follow. Lumber Inspectors are trained to follow the guidelines of the NHLA Rules, which define the grades as the percentage of clear area (in most cases). They are not looking for anything outside of that area as a restriction in the majority of the boards. Restrictions outside of the NHLA Rules are very complicated for Inspectors to follow. Instead, education of employees on the process of ripping, chopping or quality control is a better method to avoid unwanted characteristics getting in to the finished goods.

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Over the years, NHLA has addressed overly restrictive purchase order requests as in the example in the preceding paragraph for “no stain”. In the current 2015 NHLA Rules Book, on page 9, paragraph 25, under the heading of “Stain”, it states: “When an order or contract specifies "free from stain," stain shall not be admitted unless it will dress out in the required cutting area in surfacing to standard thickness for surfaced lumber.” This Rule is no different than the stain that is allowed in any clear face cutting and it would only be a necessary requirement on a purchase order when the specified species or grade allows stain in the cuttings.

PRIME IS NOT AN NHLA GRADE Another issue that is surfacing again relates to “Prime” grade lumber. Contrary to popular belief “Prime” is not an official NHLA grade. If it were, you would see it published in the NHLA Rules Book for the Measurement & Inspection of Hardwood & Cypress which is updated and published every four years by NHLA and has been for more than one hundred years! When shipments of hardwood lumber are bought and sold using the NHLA Rules both parties inherit a means by which to prove their grade for valuation purposes. NHLA has a highly skilled group of Inspectors that are available to help evaluate, teach, assist or otherwise give advice when needed. The NHLA Inspector Training School has graduated over 7,300 students (Lumber Inspectors) in order to assist companies in buying and selling hardwood lumber. If your company is need of training, please contact NHLA, the developer, keeper and teacher of the hardwood lumber grading rules for 120 years!

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jet_9911 Quarter Page Vertical Ad_3.5”x 4.125”_NHLA Harwood Matters Mag_AN

Version 02

TRAIN YOUR EMPLOYEES. BOOST REVENUE.

date_ 09.05.2018

Enroll your staff in our next 12-week Inspector Training School Program.

Registration Now Open August 29-November 17 Memphis, TN NHLA Headquarters Register at NHLA.com or call 901-377-1818

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J U N E 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

EDUCATION & TRAINING For hardwood business owners and their employees Register for classes at www.nhla.com/calendar

JUNE

4-7 Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber. Venue: Yoder Lumber Co., Inc. Millersburg, OH Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

! JUNE w e N

JUNE

5-8

19-21

26-28

Dry Kiln Operator's Short Course

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

This Short Course will provide practical knowledge about how lumber is effectively kiln dried and scientific background on related wood properties and processes. Venue: North Carolina State University / Raleigh, NC Instructor: Dr. Phil Mitchell, North Carolina State Universityr

JULY

AUGUST

17-19

6-17

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Inspector Training School Progressive Program BLOCK 1

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber. Venue: Ron Jones Hardwood Sales, Inc. / Franklin, PA

Alternative program to the 12week Inspector Training School Block 1: Two weeks of hands-on training Block 2: Online study time Block 3: Three weeks handson training and testing

Instructor: Tom Byers, NHLA National Inspector

Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber.

Venue: North Carolina State University / Raleigh, NC

Venue: Deer Park Lumber, Inc. Tunkhannock, PA

Instructor: Mark Bear, NHLA National Inspector

Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

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EDUCATION IS KEY TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS "No better place to start in the lumber/forest industry. That knowledge can carry you in many avenues of our industry." —Michael Klingler, NHLA Inspector Training School 116th Class

For Inspecor Training School info visit www.nhla.com/education/inspector-training-school

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

29-Nov 17

11-13

17-21

25-27

Inspector Training School 187th Class

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Traditional 12 week hands-on training to achieve the certificate of completion in Hardwood Lumber Inspection. Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber.

Venue: Kamps Hardwoods, Inc. Caledonia, MI

Venue: Wood-Mizer, LLC Indianapolis, IN

Venue: Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. / Fayette, MO

Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

Instructor: Mark Bear, NHLA National Inspector

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

15-18

27-Dec. 7

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Inspector Training School Progressive Program BLOCK 1

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

Instructor: Jack English, NHLA National Inspector

OCTOBER

9-11 Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber. Venue: HHP Inc. Henniker, NH Instructor: Jack English, NHLA National Inspector

9-11 ew!

Walnut Lumber Grading

This seminar is designed to teach Walnut lumber grading. This is the only species that will be discussed. Venue: Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. / Fayette, MO Instructor: Mark Bear, NHLA National Inspector

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber. Venue: WV Wood Technology Center / Elkins, WV

Alternative program to the 12week Inspector Training School Block 1: Two weeks of hands-on training Block 2: Online study time Block 3: Three weeks handson training and testing

Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

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J U N E 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

JOB BOARD HARDWOOD PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT TRAINING PROGRAM

Robinson Lumber Company is looking for someone to join our team in New Albany, Indiana. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside established management to gain knowledge and hands on experience in one of our top facilities. Qualified applicants will possess an ability and interest in frequent travel, experience in kiln drying and/or NHLA grading guidelines, and an interest in production, people, and management. Two plus years of industry experience or a degree in a wood related field is required. This is a newly created opportunity with Robinson Lumber Company. This program is designed to be as fast-paced as the candidate will allow, with salary increasing alongside responsibility and achievement. Please apply online via our website: www.roblumco.com/careers Robinson Lumber Company New Albany, IN 47150 | Phone: 504-895-6377

HARDWOOD LUMBER SALES EXECUTIVE

Robinson Lumber Company is looking for a talented sales person to join their North American Hardwood Lumber Sales team. We will consider applicants working from satellite or home offices, especially in areas of interest. Employee tenure at RLC averages over 20 years; applicants should be seeking a long term position in a family owned company where loyalty is rewarded.

* To view current job postings or to post a job, visit www.nhla.com/industry-services/job-board. LUMBER INSPECTOR

Billsby Lumber Company is seeking a Lumber Inspector. You must be able to operate and maintain circle head-rig to cut grade hardwood lumber & to get the most yield & value out of the log. This position would be sawing half the time and grading lumber half the time alternating with another sawyer. The ideal candidate would be an NHLA graduate with 2 yrs. experience. 2-5yrs. experience sawing grade hardwood lumber. Will consider fresh NHLA graduate with head sawyer experience. A can-do attitude & being a team player is required. Salary is based on experience and full benefits include paid holidays, vacation, life & health insurance, and Simple IRA program. To apply please send resume and references to billsbylumber@att.net or by fax at 989-539-4900. You can also mail to 2725 Larch Rd. Harrison, MI, 48625. Billsby Lumber Company 2725 Larch Road | Harrison, MI 48625 Phone: 989-539-9842

HEAD SAWYER

Billsby Lumber Company is looking for a head sawyer. The candidate must be able to operate and maintain circle head-rig to cut grade hardwood lumber & to get the most yield & value out of the log.

This is a full time, salaried, and commissioned position with an emphasis on results. Two plus years of experience is preferred.

This position would be sawing half the time and grading lumber half the time alternating with another sawyer.

Please apply online via our website: www.roblumco.com/careers.

The ideal candidate would be an NHLA graduate with 2 yrs. experience. 2-5yrs. experience sawing grade hardwood lumber. Will consider fresh NHLA graduate with head sawyer experience. A can-do attitude & being a team player is required.

Robinson Lumber Company New Orleans, LA 70115 | Phone: 504-895-6377

HARDWOOD LUMBER INSPECTOR/GRADER

Robinson Lumber Company is looking to hire a full-time Hardwood Lumber Grader. Primary duties and responsibilities include consistent and accurate grading of green and dried lumber. The successful candidate must be NHLA certified or have equivalent experience and have the ability to work in a team oriented, fast paced work environment. We are a strong team dedicated to continuous improvements. This is a full time, salaried position with benefits. Two plus years of experience is preferred. Please apply online via our website: www.roblumco.com/careers. Robinson Lumber Company Winchester, VA 22601 | Phone: 504-895-6377

LUMBER INSPECTOR

Superior Hardwoods is seeking a lumber Inspector for green lumber. Experience is preferred. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401 K, paid holidays and vacations. Please email your resume to showard@superiorhardwood.com or fax to 765-245-2737. Superior Hardwoods 6429 W. 100 N. | P.O . Box 406 | Montezuma, IN 47862 Phone: 765-245-2634

| J U N E 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

Salary is based on experience and full benefits include paid holidays, vacation, life & health insurance, and Simple IRA program. To apply please send resume and references to billsbylumber@att.net or by fax at 989-539-4900. You can also mail to 2725 Larch Rd. Harrison, MI, 48625. Billsby Lumber Company 2725 Larch Road | Harrison, MI 48625 Phone: 989-539-9842

CHINA HARDWOOD SALES EXECUTIVE

Robinson Lumber Company, an American owned and operated business, is seeking an experienced Hardwood Lumber Sales Executive who lives in China or has proven familiarity with the Chinese market. This position requires 2-4 years of experience in importing American Hardwood Lumber, be familiar with the American way of doing business, be driven to develop long-term market share and strives for continuous growth and have knowledge of market pricing, margin analysis, and product specifications. The candidate must have a positive industry reputation, excellent English speaking skills, proven travel to the United States, and experience with NHLA grading system. Softwood lumber experience, operational background with manufacturing experience and familiarity with Salesforce CRM are a plus. This is an opportunity to join an established family company in an entrepreneurial stage of its long history, and for a motivated individual to grow both personally and professionally. The new generation of family ownership places no limits on leaders, regardless of last name, and the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most success-

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ful people aim to spend the rest of their careers here, forming tight personal bonds with their colleagues. Please apply online via our website: www.roblumco.com/careers. Robinson Lumber Company New Orleans, LA 70115 | Phone: 504-895-6377

HARDWOOD LUMBER LEADER

Robinson Lumber Company has multiple positions open from domestic hardwood lumber purchasing, to production management, to international sales. We are always looking for talented individuals to join our team, and in particular seek experienced hardwood professionals who are ready to take on significant leadership responsibilities. Are you a proactive and assertive person? Do you pride yourself on your ability to think ahead and enjoy pushing ideas forward to attain your goals? Do you prefer to work in environments that allow you independence and the freedom to make decisions? Then we are looking for you! This is an opportunity to join an established family company in an entrepreneurial stage of its long history, and for a motivated individual to grow both personally and professionally. The new generation of family ownership places no limits on leaders, regardless of last name, and the company’s most successful people aim to spend the rest of their careers here, forming tight personal bonds with their colleagues.

LUMBER INSPECTOR

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales is looking for an experienced lumber inspector for our yard in Cookeville, TN. Responsibilities include grading of both green and kiln dried lumber consistently, while supervising a team. We are seeking a NHLA trained inspector with at least 2+ years experience. Medical insurance and 401 k options. Great location in the middle Tennessee area with a competitive salary based on experience. Email resume to wesley@hermitagehardwood.com or call 931-526-6832. Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales 105 Ridgedale Drive | Cookeville, TN 38501 Phone: 931-526-6832

HARDWOOD DRY KILN SUPERVISOR

Edwards Wood Products, Inc. is looking to hire a hardwood dry kiln supervisor to oversee drying and shipping of all green and kiln dried lumber as directed. Maintain constant flow of lumber following established cutting, species and grading customer specifications while maintaining quality and safety as top priority. We require the candidate to be a graduate of NHLA, and have three years supervising all aspects of Kiln Operations.

Please apply online via our website: www.roblumco.com/careers.

This is a great opportunity to grow with one of the strongest Wood Industries with 4 plants in NC and 1 plant in SC. Edwards Wood Products Inc. Marshville NC is seeking a leader with desire to be #1 in a #1 industry. Visit EWPI.Com to tour our Companies.

Robinson Lumber Company New Orleans, LA 70115 | Phone: 504-895-6377

Great Working Conditions, Great Benefits, Near Charlotte NC, couple hours to Carolina Beaches and Blue Ride Mountains

HARDWOOD PURCHASING ASSISTANT

Salary: $70,000.00

Robinson Lumber Company is looking to hire a Purchasing Assistant to work out of our New Orleans office. We have established sales and purchasing support team that will provide one-on-one training and mentoring. A good candidate may have experience from a different industry but will have a proven ability to work under pressure and prioritize. Primary responsibilities include: vendor relationship management, monitoring stock levels and identifying purchasing needs, issuing purchase orders, maintaining supplier information in Salesforce.com CRM system and other tasks as assigned. Are you driven to be accurate? Is your work orderly and streamlined? Do your friends consider you to be somewhat impatient? Are you attentive to the needs of others, while still getting the project done? Do you feel motivated by personal recognition and helping others achieve goals? Then we are looking for you! Qualifications include: previous sales, purchasing, and/or logistics experience a plus, ability to speak a second language is a plus, excellent organizational skills and ability to multi-task are essential to this position, professional communication skills (personal/verbal and written), and knowledge of Microsoft Office products and Salesforce a plus. Lumber knowledge is not necessary. This is an opportunity to join an established family company in an entrepreneurial stage of its long history, and for a motivated individual to grow both personally and professionally. The new generation of family ownership places no limits on leaders, regardless of last name, and the company’s most successful people aim to spend the rest of their careers here, forming tight personal bonds with their colleagues. This is a full time, salaried position. Please apply online via our website: www. roblumco.com/careers. Robinson Lumber Company New Orleans, LA 70115 | Phone: 504-895-6377

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Please apply online at www.ewpi.com or mail resume to Edwards Wood Products, Inc. 2215 Old Lawyers Road, Marshville NC 28103. Edwards Wood Products, Inc. 2215 Old Lawyers Road | Marshville, NC 28103 Phone: 704-624-3641 or 704-291-6851 | Fax: 704-624-5611

LUMBER INSPECTOR

J. T. Shannon Lumber Company is seeking to hire a lumber inspector. A Lumber Inspector must have successfully passed the 3 to 6-month course in NHLA (National Hardwood Lumber Association) school and possess a certificate as a certified Lumber grader. Verifies and keeps records of lumber being graded. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Works under pressure in a changing and fast paced environment, inspects incoming materials and verifies that the material meets designed or purchased specification, correctly marks and identifies each piece of lumber as to its qualified use in destination identification, full use of lumber grading stick, oversee Planer mill personnel to insure all personnel are pulling and sorting material correctly, insure all packs of lumber is tallied, tagged properly identified, no miss-pulls. must be able to defend his/her grading at any time, must be able to work with the lumber buyer on claims and defend our position should a dispute arise, and must be able to adapt to preparatory grades and be able to interpret them as well. A Lumber Inspector must have successfully passed the 3 to 6 month course in NHLA (National Hardwood Lumber Association) school and possess a certificate as a certified Lumber grader. High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Please email resumes to Jennifer Hankins, jhankins@jtshannon.com. J. T. Shannon Lumber Company Horn Lake, MS Phone: 662-280-6052 | Fax: 662-280-6096 J U N E 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

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OCTOBER 2-4 | SHERATON CENTRE | DOWNTOWN TORONTO Register online at www.nhla.com/networking/convention

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