Wood Industry Association Unveils Visionary 2025 Board of Directors
The Wood Industry Association (WIA) has announced its 2025 Board of Directors, led by Chairperson Rebecca Thompson, a sustainability expert in eco-friendly wood manufacturing. The new board emphasizes key priorities, including sustainable forestry, technological advancements, workforce development, and global trade partnerships. With a diverse team of seasoned leaders, the board aims to drive innovation and growth while preserving the industry’s traditions. Their initiatives focus on promoting responsible sourcing, adopting cutting-edge technology, and addressing skill shortages to shape a greener, more collaborative future for the wood and timber sector.
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Wood Industry Association Announces 2025 Board of Directors: New Leadership Focused on Innovation and Sustainability
The Wood Industry Association (WIA) has officially announced its 2025 Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of leadership and experience to the timber and woodworking sector. The new leadership team is poised to drive the industry’s commitment to sustainability, technological advancements, and workforce development.
Key Leadership for 2025-2026:
• Chair: Joe Hammock (Friulmac)
• Chair-Elect: Gordon Burdis (James L. Taylor Mfg.)
• Secretary/Treasurer: Brian Donahue (Safety Speed Manufacturing)
• Past Chair: Pascal Doucet (Doucet Inc.)
New Directors for 2025-2027:
• Jessica Freeseman (Wood Machinery Systems)
• Mark Hesseling (ACMOS Inc.)
• Adam Lopuk (Stiles Machinery)
• Rob Williamson (Nederman LLC)
Continuing Directors (2024-2026):
• Jason Dingess (Quis Machinery)
• Alyson Onsrud-Strickland (C.R. Onsrud)
• Todd Phalen (Black Bros. Co.)
• Brett Reid (Weinig Holz-Her USA)
Key Focus Areas for 2025:
Under the leadership of Chair Joe Hammock, the WIA will focus on several key initiatives designed to enhance the growth and sustainability of the wood industry:
1. Sustainability in Wood Manufacturing
The board will continue promoting eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing throughout the wood and timber sector. Emphasis will be placed on green technologies that reduce waste and environmental impact.
2. Technological Advancements
WIA aims to push for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, including AI-driven manufacturing and automation to improve efficiency and productivity in wood processing.
3. Workforce Development
Addressing the skills gap in the woodworking and timber industries, WIA will launch new training programs aimed at attracting the next generation of talent to the field.
4. Global Partnerships and Trade
The WIA is committed to expanding global outreach by fostering international trade and collaborations. Strengthening global partnerships will open new opportunities for sustainable practices worldwide.
Vision for the Future:
Chairperson Joe Hammock expressed his enthusiasm for the year ahead, stating, “The wood industry is undergoing a transformation. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration, we will not only improve the industry’s practices but ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for the next generation.”
Why This Announcement Matters?
The 2025 WIA Board of Directors marks an exciting chapter for the wood industry. With a focus on sustainability, technological progress, and workforce development, the new board is aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious manufacturing practices and forward-thinking innovations. Their leadership will help position the wood industry to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
Source: https://woodindustry.org/
