The HMA ‘Big Picture!’

In today’s confusing and unpredictable world, I continue to take comfort in the cyclical nature of HMA’s calendar of events. Don’t misunderstand. Each day typically includes a host of surprises that often makes HMA-life chaotic. But, when looking at the HMA ‘big picture,’ there is a systematic and methodical rhythm to the work we do […]

New Nordic Design Project “Three” To Promote Red Oak, Maple And Cherry

As part of our ongoing promotion of underutilized species of American Hardwoods, AHEC is working with three designer-makers from the Nordic regions – Norway, Sweden and Denmark – in a three-timber making challenge. They will create a final piece/object in either Red Oak, Maple or Cherry to be showcased in an exhibition that will be […]

Busy Year Ahead For WCMA

It has been a busy spring, and I have enjoyed being back on the road attending several industry events and seeing members in person. I can always tell when business is good by the attendance rate at these events, and it has been a great spring! 2023 European Plant Tour Event The WCMA is excited […]

Be An Example

We tend to offer advice to others, including employees, even when it is not wanted. Do you like unsolicited advice? Me neither, but we must train employees on how to be more effective, efficient, and industrious. So, what is the best way? I think it’s like guiding a moose hunter. First, let me say something […]

A United Wood Industry

I was chatting with another association colleague the other day about long term challenges for the wood industry and he summarized one of the biggest quite well; it is not about import versus domestic, it is about wood versus other materials. This challenge was borne out when I was shopping for some office supplies for […]

AHEC Makes Natural Connections At Madrid Design Festival 2023

Natural Connections was presented at Matadero Madrid as part of Madrid Design Festival 2023 With the aim of connecting material and people in a personal, conscious and nature-focused way, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) has invited leading Spanish designers Inma Bermúdez and Moritz Krefter (Studio Inma Bermúdez), Jorge Penadés and Alvaro Catalán de Ocón […]

The Importance Of Market Diversification For U.S. Forest Products Suppliers

In December 2019, I presented an update on the U.S. lumber market at a Japan Lumber Importers Association meeting as part of an SEC’s annual exchange to connect U.S. Softwood lumber suppliers and Japanese importers. The changes in the U.S. market in just three years are striking and they underscore the importance of international market […]

What’s New With The SCMA in 2023

The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) recently gathered for its 2023 Annual Meeting at the JW Marriott in Nashville, Tennessee. At the two-day event, held March 21–22 in conjunction with the Hardwood Manufacturers Association’s National Conference and Expo, members and promotion sponsors were updated on SCMA activities, previewed upcoming projects, elected officers, and enjoyed a […]

AHEC MAKES NATURAL CONNECTIONS ATMADRID DESIGN FESTIVAL 2023

Natural Connections was presented at Matadero Madrid as part ofMadrid Design Festival 2023. With the aim of connecting material and people in a personal, conscious and nature-focused way, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) has invited leading Spanish designers Inma Bermúdez and Moritz Krefter (Studio Inma Bermúdez), Jorge Penadés and Alvaro Catalán de Ocón to […]

Congress Gears Up For Farm Bill 2023

As the 118th Congress kicks off its first session, lawmakers are beginning to roll up their sleeves on moving the Farm Bill, which is up for reauthorization in 2023. Although Congress will be operating under razor thin margins, a factor that bodes well for fans of legislative gridlock, the Farm Bill has historically moved forward […]