2017 January/February Hardwood Matters

Page 1

J a n / Fe b 2 01 7

H A R DWO O D M AT T E R S T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWOO D I N D U ST RY

Top Tech Trends For

2017 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


Picture Perfect.

Inspired by Quality, Service and Forest Stewardship since 1904.

Our 4/4 through 8/4 White Oak Rift and Quarter Sawn lumber is made from specially selected logs and dried to perfection. Combined with exceptional service and 100% guarantee

Pike Brand ® Hardwoods are picture perfect. Try us once, you’ll be back for more!

®

P.O. Box 247 Akron, Indiana 46910

(800) 356-4554 (574) 893-4511 (574) 893-7400 fax

Sales@PikeLumber.com www.PikeLumber.com


DEPARTMENTS 10 18

Legislative Log Rules Corner

READER SERVICES

10

6 President’s Message 8 Executive Director's Message 20 Job Board 22 Calendar

14

Photo Courtesy of AHEC

IN THIS ISSUE 14 Top Tech Trends for 2017

CONTENTS W W W. N H L A .CO M

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

3


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

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.

January/February 2017 ▪ Issue 175 National Hardwood Lumber Association PO Box 34518 ▪ Memphis, TN 38184-0518 901-377-1818 ▪ 901-382-6419 (fax) info@nhla.com ▪ www.nhla.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

MISSION LEADERS

Brent Stief Huron Forest Products President

Jack Shannon J.T. Shannon Lumber Co. Unique Services

Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Vice President Pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Past President 2014-2016 NHLA STAFF Lorna D. Christie Executive Director l.christie@nhla.com Renee Hornsby Director of Communications/Editor r.hornsby@nhla.com

13

Rossi Group

19

Dunavant Global Logistics Group

9

King City/Northway Forwarding

5 19

TJT Consulting Simply Computing

12

U•C Coatings

20 PHL IFC

Pike Lumber Company, Inc.

Kevin Gillette Tioga Hardwoods Membership & Networking COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Kristina Thomas Community Manager k.thomas@nhla.com

Dave Bramlage Cole Hardwood, Inc. Promotion & Advocacy

Rich Hascher Inspector Training School Instructor John Hester Director of Membership Becky Miller Administrative School/ Inspection Assistant

7 DMSi

Mike Powers Maley & Wertz Industry Advocacy & Promotion

Dave Mayfield Mayfield Lumber Co. Membership

■■■

ADVERTISER INDEX

Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Structure

Melissa Ellis Smith Graphic Designer m.ellis@nhla.com

Desirée Freeman Controller

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

Nordeck Thompson Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods Rules

Dana Spessert Chief Inspector

Jon Syre Cascade Hardwood LLC 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 Jeff Wirkkala Hardwood Industries, Inc. Member Value Joe Snyder Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Rules Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Strategic Planning

4

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .CO M


We’re Planning For the Next Generation Jason B. Myers, Ed.M. Financial Services Professional

Nicholle M. Overkamp, MBA Personal & Retirement Planning Consultant

Making sure the right people are in place and prepared for leadership is essential to the future success of any business. TJT Consulting specializes in business succession planning. Not only are we helping our clients transition to their future leadership team, we are building a strong team of professionals for our future as well. Having a multigenerational, talented and goal oriented team in place at TJT Consulting is great for us, but more importantly great for our clients. Our strong team is made up of professionals with years of experience and expertise in the markets we work in, such as the hardwood lumber industry. That’s just one of the things that sets us apart and gives TJT Consulting a leg up. And as we add members to our team we share that experience and knowledge with them. From generation to generation, it’s what we’re about. We’d like for you to know more about our team and find out how we can help your company prepare for the future. Call TJT Consulting today!

TJT CONSULTING

Business Succession Planning 4001 Legion Drive • Hamburg, NY 14075 Toll Free: 866-287-5919 or (716) 649-4460 E-mail: djacobs@tjt4001.com www.tjtconsulting4001.com

Confidence • Commitment • Results W W W. N H L A .CO M

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

5


PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEMBER ENGAGEMENT NHLA recently conducted a board of managers survey, in an effort to continually improve the board’s effectiveness in serving members across our global supply chain. I was surprised by the board members’ response to the question, “Is the nominating process transparent to you?” Half of the board said “no”, or “not really.” If half of the board members don’t understand the process, chances are our members don’t understand it either. SO HERE IS THE PROCESS. Per our bylaws, the NHLA Board of Managers is composed of Active members from different regions of the country. Active members are defined as individuals, firms, or corporations engaged in the manufacturing, custom kiln drying, wholesaling or distribution of North American hardwood or cypress lumber, veneer, plywood and related products. Board members must be willing to volunteer their time, share their expertise, and pay their own expenses to come to the meetings. Members are elected for at least one consecutive three-year term. We are eager to have new board members and to encourage all qualified members interested in serving to let the NHLA Nominating Committee know of their interest! The Nominating Committee is composed of 4 to 5 members and is chaired by Pem Jenkins, the immediate Past President. Volunteer experience with regional or state associations is always a plus when being considered for a board seat. We also consider highly successful business people who we have encountered in our business transactions. (We can all think of a few people like this that we know.) If you would like to nominate yourself, or a person you know that would be an excellent contributor, then you can do so by emailing Pem at p.jenkins@nhla.com. New members are generally added every year. All interested members will be provided with an update on their request prior to the spring or fall board meetings. Some of our board members didn’t wait to be asked to join. They took matters into their own hands! Michael Shapiro of Weston Premium Hardwoods chose to attend a board meeting as a guest (any member is welcome to monitor our meetings). He was appointed to two committees for two years as a non-board member. Michael was nominated as a full member of the board and has served and contributed for four years. As a side note, he mentioned that he has benefited from the networking opportunities that come with board service. He has been an excellent contributor and NHLA is better for his insight. Another new nominee, Bruce Horner of Abenaki Timber, had a strong desire to get involved and give back. Bruce was a graduate of the Inspector Training School, graded lumber for a while, and went on to work in sales. Bruce was quite clear that his experience at the School changed his life. He made his interest in serving on the NHLA 6

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

We are eager to have new board members and to encourage all qualified members interested in serving to let the NHLA Nominating Committee know of their interest! Board known to various board members. It was also clear to the nominators, that he had the backing of his employer. True to form, Bruce stepped up and contributed as his first meeting. We need new members again this year and welcome all qualified nominations. Please consider volunteering or think about nominating a committed professional who can contribute to the board’s decision-making process. We are also in search of the perspective of the next generation of leaders who will help NHA succeed in the future.

Brent Stief, NHLA President Huron Forest Products

W W W. N H L A .CO M


RELIABLE FULL-SERVICE SOFTWARE GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE AGILITY ERP

INTEGRATED ACCOUNTING

REAL-TIME REPORTING

TALLY CAPTURE

VENDOR INTERFACES

INVENTORY VISIBILITY

CUSTOM & MOBILE APPS

VISIT US AT DMSi.COM/HM


EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

MILLENNIALS ON THE MOVE - FINALLY Whether you call them Millennials, Gen Ys, or the “son or daughter still living in my basement,” there can be no debate that this consumer segment is a powerful market force. Millennials now outnumber Baby Boomers as America’s largest living population. They are projected to spend more than $200 billion annually starting in 2017, and more than a mind blowing $10 trillion over the course of their lifetimes. The question of course is . . . how can the hardwood lumber industry benefit from this massive force moving into the marketplace? The numbers look promising. Fueled in part by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae’s new terms for allowing as little as 3% down for first time buyers, this important consumer segment is cautiously focusing their buying power on housing. In fact, millennial activity in the housing market is just one of the many reasons why housing starts are predicted to improve in 2017. After years of living with their parents, millennials are now a generation on the move. The National Association of Realtors reports that millennials’ home purchases have shown consistent growth over the past three years. More than half of all homes bought next year will be bought by first time home buyers, and 61% of those buyers will be under the age of 35. While new home building is expected to increase overall in 2016, only 18% of millennials are in search of a newly built homes. Thirty-nine percent are moving from urban areas to the suburbs, purchasing homes with a median construction year of 1985, demonstrating their fondness for fixer uppers. It is no wonder that 45% of millennials say they are in the process of doing major home improvements in the near future. What materials will they use? With millennials’ affinity for natural materials there would seem to be more than enough room for hardwoods in their decorating trends. However, these value conscious consumers are also giving our competitors a boost due to their perception that products such bamboo and cork flooring are less costly and in some cases, more environmentally sustainable. Faux wood tiles are also becoming increasingly popular among this important group.

How do we succeed in a brave new world?

We all recognize it is a brave new world, “a new normal” for the hardwood industry. Yet, like many evolving industries, we continue to segment ourselves as business to business (seller) or business to consumer (buyer). The responsibility of understanding consumer behavior appears to have been assigned to buyers. Is it time to change that dynamic? No matter where you sit on the global hardwood supply chain, the consumer is in charge and are a powerful influence on

8

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

More than half of all homes bought next year will be bought by first time home buyers, and 61% of those buyers will be under the age of 35. buyers’ purchasing behavior. If you understand your buyers’ customer, (consumers) won’t you have a better understanding of your buyers’ needs? Doesn’t that make you a better, more competitive supplier? Just food for thought. While there is no magic bullet when it comes to understanding what motivates millennial purchasing behavior, we do know that sustainability is an important factor in their purchasing decisions. Research also tells us that social responsibility is a key element in how they define sustainable. Millennials connect with products that are not only good for the environment, but also for the people who created the product. And they will often pay more for products that meet their expectations. A possible competitive strategy for the popularity (continued on page 12)

W W W. N H L A .CO M


W W W. N H L A .CO M

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

9


LEGISLATIVE LOG

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN

2017

By Dana Cole, Executive Director Hardwood Federation

A

new year is upon us and with it a transition to a new President and a new Congress. Our nation’s Capitol complex is humming with activity, with newly elected Members of Congress setting up their offices while many returning Members are packing and moving into new office space. As a result, there is furniture everywhere! Nevertheless, Congress kicked off its 115th Session on January 3 with proclamations from leadership in both houses that the legislative branch will be moving at warp speed to deliver on campaign promises made last year. And so far they have been good to their word. Legislation has already moved through the House to roll back pending regulatory activity that is perceived to stifle economic growth. Obviously confirmation hearings and inaugural activities occupied considerable attention through January and beyond, but below we have outlined a few key areas where Congress is expected to act in the short term. Buckle up everyone, it is sure to be a wild ride.

TAX REFORM

Revamping the voluminous and overly complicated Internal Revenue Code—which has fostered a tax preparation industry that now generates over $8 billion in earnings—is a top priority in both houses of Congress as well as the Administration. Whether this means a comprehensive tax overhaul remains to be seen, but President Trump has been quite vocal on the elimination of the Estate Tax, or more commonly the “Death Tax”, which would save American families billions of dollars a year. House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady have shared the broad outlines of a comprehensive 10

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

tax reform plan that they are now molding into legislative text. One of the key concepts of their plan is “border adjustability,” which would reduce taxes exponentially on businesses that export product. Proponents argue that such an approach would encourage domestic manufacturing as taxes on imports would increase— essentially shifting U.S. tax policy from a production-based assessment to one based on consumption. We are awaiting specifics, but will obviously be close to this effort as debate continues.

REGULATORY REFORM

Both the Trump Administration and members of Congress have been clear about their desire to implement regulatory reform measures that will give relief to the business community. As is the case with most Administrations, the Obama team offered a flurry of last minute regulatory changes in the last months of their term. Between the election and December 31, 145 new regulations were issued. For comparison, 39 were issues in March of 2015, 55 in May and 57 in November. Under the 1996 Congressional Review Act, Congress can rescind new federal regulations on a simple majority vote within 60 working days of being final. The trick will be to find the time to introduce and pass the number of bills Congress, and the President, have targeted. A bill has passed out of the House that would allow multiple bills to be struck down in a single vote; its chances of passing the Senate are limited. Even more tricky will be that eliminated rules are already on the books; these will require extended public review and comment periods . . . and there will doubtlessly be legal challenges once decisions are made. The Hardwood Federation will be working with our champions in Congress to address those regulations that are most burdensome to the industry.

INFRASTRUCTURE

The need for major public investment in deteriorating roads and bridges, as well as improving ports and other public works, was a campaign battle cry for President Trump and he and his team are W W W. N H L A .CO M


looking to make good on that pledge. While most would agree that spending on these priorities is badly needed, the hang-up in Congress will be how to pay for the exorbitant price tag and prioritization of projects. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has jurisdiction over these issues in the upper chamber and that panel is under new leadership with Senator John Barasso (R-WY) taking over the gavel from Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK). Mr. Barasso has been somewhat cool to the levels of spending that have been floated by the Trump team. In any event, your HF team here in Washington will be following developments on this issue closely. The umbrella of “infrastructure spending” is potentially all encompassing and could include spending in areas that may directly—and indirectly—help our hardwood manufacturing facilities.

TRADE

Trade was a big topic of discussion during the campaigns and debates last year and there is no reason to think this won’t be one of the major areas of focus for the Trump Administration. With debate over China, Mexico, TPP and NAFTA just the tip of the iceberg trade decisions will be an early barometer for the 100-day plan for the Trump administration.

OBAMACARE

President Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has messaged continually on Republicans’ desire to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), known colloquially as Obamacare. This will not be an easy or a short fight as this effort will be opposed by Democrats. The other challenge is that simply repealing current law without replacing it with an alternative could have dire political consequences. A considerable portion of the population has enrolled for benefits under the ACA, including many that support President Trump. Eliminating those benefits without backfilling with something comparable—as least as a bridge solution—could be problematic. HF has not, and does not intend to, W W W. N H L A .CO M

get involved in this issue, beyond monitoring for aspects that impact the hardwood industry directly, but it will be a major point of note for many months in 2017.

SUPREME COURT APPOINTMENTS

The passing of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia last year left a glaring hole in the makeup of the nation’s top court that remains unfilled. We expect a nominee to be put forth shortly by the Trump team and once that happens, the process will consume considerable time and attention on Capitol Hill.

FRIENDS IN HIGH PLACES

A positive development in the commencement of the new Congress is change in some of the key leadership posts on committees of interest to the hardwood sector. Most notable of these is the promotion of Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) to chair the all-powerful House Energy & Commerce Committee. This panel has jurisdiction over energy and environmental policy matters. We spend a lot of time and effort with members of this committee and committee staff. Mr. Walden knows our industry well and is a strong supporter of our policy agenda. We look forward to working with him and his team in the 115th Congress. Another positive development is Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) moving over to the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee. Sen. Daines has been a leading advocate in the upper chamber for meaningful federal forestry reform. As you may recall, House-passed federal forest reform legislation was referred to and reported from the Senate Agriculture Committee last year. So this is a panel that could play a pivotal role on that issue, as well as obviously the development of the next Farm Bill. While the current Farm Bill does not expire until 2018, efforts will begin shortly to put together this critical 5 year farm program authorization that will encompass many of our policy priorities. J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

11


(Executive Director's Message continued from page 8)

®

ANCHORSEAL PROFIT PROTECTION ANCHORSEAL ® & ANCHORSEAL 2 ® the trusted end sealer for logs and lumber.

of “faux wood” tiles? Another equally important reason to connect with millennials is the fact they are more likely to support strict environmental policies and regulations. We can choose to inform them, or let the activists fill that role. Clearly, it is time to tell your story. Millennials have access to an unprecedented amount of production information, they are natural researchers. Connecting with our industry’s story can make a difference in their purchasing behaviors. When considering how to tell your story, highlight your commitment to both sustainability and social responsibility. Provide highly visual content that will engage consumers with stories of your commitment to sustainable forests, your family run company, and the employees who make your company unique. Engage consumers through social media and consider partnerships with your buyers to connect your story to the products they sell. The opportunities are endless.

U•C COATIN GS 1-888-363-2628 s a l e s @u c c o a t i n g s . c o m www.uccoatings.com

12

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

Lorna D. Christie, Executive Director 901-377-1082 direct | l.christie@nhla.com

W W W. N H L A .CO M


rd 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 •

HARDWOODS

rd 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 •

Emporium, PA, USA

rd 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 •

rd 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 •

SALES Sales@rossilumber.com rd 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 • www.rossigroup.net Middletown, CT, USA Ph 01 (860) 632 3505 Fax 01 (860) 613 3727

rd 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 •

rd 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 •

The Gold Standard for American Cherry for over 50 years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

J A N U A R Y/ S EF PE B TR EM U AB RE Y R 2 0 1 67 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

21 3


TOP T

ECH

14

TREN

DS F O

R

2017 J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .CO M


“what will be the impact of driverless cars and trucks on the Logistics field in general?”

T

he New Year started with the CES® 2017 (formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas, January 5-8 followed by the NAIAS (North American International Auto Show) in Detroit, January 8-22. Both of these shows highlighted one of the major tech trends for 2017 – the self-driving car. In 2011, Google announced that this technology that had been envisioned and imagined for the better part of the 20th century was W W W. N H L A .CO M

within its grasp, as a result of increasing sophistication of computer navigation, GPS technology, and camera technology. This year, CES and NAIAS again put a spotlight on the mounting competition between not just the automakers but also the suppliers vying to provide the high-tech components that allow vehicles to navigate through a world of obstacles. Since this technology seems closer than ever, analysts have picked up speculation about the implications of driverless cars in terms of their impact on automotive safety, liability, as well as on the job prospects for the massive workforce of truck drivers, which consists of 3.5 million individuals in the U.S. alone (according to the American Trucking Association). Supply Chain specialists, Argentus recently asked the question “what will be the impact of driverless cars and trucks on the Logistics field in general?” It’s speculated that this technology might lower the demand for truck drivers – but for logistics planners and J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

15


service providers (3PLs), are there opportunities for Supply Chain efficiency and strategic advantages? In an attempt to get a better handle on this emerging trend and how it will impact the Logistics field, express logistics leader DHL commissioned a report on the topic. A few key benefits from autonomous driving outlined by the report: • Improved Safety through a reduction in driver error. • Lower Environmental Impact through having fewer vehicles on the road and more efficient fuel consumption. • Higher Efficiency through speeding up traffic flows, and by allowing freight trucks to travel 24/7 without requiring driver rest time. The report cites a staggering statistic, that autonomous driving could lower costs for freight by as much as 40% per kilometer. The impact of this technology on the logistics field (letting aside the wider world of transportation) might be huge. As DHL’s report says, “there is a strong case for suggesting that the logistics industry will adopt self-driving vehicles much faster than most other industries.”

This adoption of the technology will probably initially take place in secure, private areas like warehouses and open-air sites – and the report outlines how vehicles carrying freight have less liability issues than vehicles carrying people, which also points towards an early adoption of the technology by the Logistics field. According to the report, the core areas that self-driving technology will impact in Logistics are: • Warehousing Operations, through technologies like autonomous loading, auto pallet movers, and assisted order picking. • Line Haul Transportation, through technologies like assisted highway trucking, and convoys with one live driver in a truck in front with oversight over a convoy of autonomous vehicles behind it. • Last-mile Delivery, which the report calls both “the least predict able part of the entire journey” and “the most visionary application of self-driving vehicles in logistics.” Advances in autonomous driving promise to transform and improve last-mile delivery through technologies such as parcel station loading, shared cars, and (get this) self-driving parcels. Argentus believes that the most likely near-term outcome of advances in autonomous vehicles is that a hybrid approach will emerge, with control still in the hands of a driver, but with more technologies automating the driving process with the goal of achieving the gains noted above. Quite a few automotive manufacturers are already embracing hybrid automated technologies that still demand human attention such as adaptive cruise control, and a number of logistics service providers are already beginning to deploy partially-automated transportation systems. The fast changing self-driving car & eventually truck trend is definitely a tech trend that all industries and supply chains need to monitor closely as we inch closer to 2020. As reported by Forbes and VentureBeat here are some other top tech trends for 2017:

VOICE RECOGNITION AS THE NEXT BIG USER INTERFACE

MEET HELLO BARBIE™ 16

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

The Global Impact of President Trump According to Sarwant Singh, a contributor at Forbes, we should expect notable shifts in U.S. relationships with Asia and Europe. Based on what Trump can do unilaterally, there is likely to be a significant pullback in current environmental policies, growth in the US energy sector, and strengthened trade partnerships between Asian countries. Massive Growth in Artificial Intelligence Expect a greater presence across devices, cases, and geographies for Google Assistant, Apple’s Siri and Amazon Alexa. Home Automation Technology Smart Homes will become connected homes as Apple Home, Google Home and Amazon Echo expand their ecosystems to create cohesive ecosystems. Just think of energy efficiency with the launch of Nest as an example. The strength of each company’s Artificial Intelligence will be the key to success.

W W W. N H L A .CO M


As DHL’s report says, “there is a strong case for suggesting that the logistics industry will adopt self-driving vehicles much faster than most other industries.”

IoT (The Internet of Things) Goes Mainstream As IoT goes mainstream, companies will turn their focus to sentient tools. Sentient tools are aware of their context, environment, and social interactions. As technologies such as cloud-based AI, collaborative robots, and ever-more sophisticated machine-learning algorithms begin to converge, we will start to see the emergence of these capabilities in smart cars, homes, and manufacturing. Autonomous cars are the most visible example of this class of tool. This family of coming products is defined by having situational awareness, intelligence and advanced machine/human communications capability. There is some worry that these types of tools could replace human labor force but they are designed to work side by side. To learn more check out this article: https://www.frost.com/sublib/display-market-insight.do?id=296998960

W W W. N H L A .CO M

And don’t forget the: • Impact of BREXIT • Increasing Global Isolationism • Voice Recognition as the Next Big User Interface Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn (NHLA_Official) during the month of January and February, as we will continue our quest for new technology. The full DHL report is available at: http://www.dhl.com/en/about_us/ logistics_insights/dhl_trend_research/self_driving_vehicles.html#.WHP67rGZNuX

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

17


RULES CORNER

THE RULES CHANGE PROCESS HAS BEGUN! By Dana Spessert, NHLA Chief Inspector

W

ith the beginning of the New Year, I am happy to announce that the Rules change process has begun! Once again NHLA is asking members to submit any Rules changes that they feel might help the continuity of the hardwood lumber trade and add consistency as well. The most unique feature of the hardwood industry is that the NHLA members have the opportunity, on a quadrennial basis, to enhance, upgrade, refine or change the rules to meet the demands of the trade. Every four years, NHLA asks for rules change proposals for consideration. The changes can be submitted to the Chief Inspector at the various contact points listed below. The submittals are first collected by the Chief Inspector and a list is compiled for a meeting of the Rules Committee. The list of Rules Change Proposals collected by the Chief Inspector are then sent to the Rules Committee for review prior to the Rules Committee meeting at the NHLA office in Memphis, Tenn. The Rules Committee consists of a Chairman that is appointed by the NHLA President, at least 11 members of various segments and regions of the industry throughout North America and the Chief Inspector. Before the submitted Rules changes are vetted at the Rules Committee meeting, the industry has an opportunity to be present at the beginning of the meeting to explain their reason for asking for the change or to state a case against any proposed change. After the industry representatives have had an opportunity to speak, the meeting is closed to anyone other than the Rules Committee and the vetting process begins. The Rules change proposals that make it through this process will be discussed at the Annual Convention and then sent to the Active members on a ballot for a vote. Any submitted Rules change receiving a favorable 2/3rds majority vote of the ballots cast shall be added to the next Rules Book. As you can see, the rules in the NHLA Rules Book are not easily changed and a standard such as this, which impacts the entire global industry must be maintained for the future. Please do your part when the ballot arrives and either vote for or against the proposals and help in maintaining what is arguably the backbone of this industry!

18

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

The schedule for the Rules change process will be: All changes must be received by March 31, 2017 Rules Committee meeting to be held T.B.D. (targeting May, 2017) Rules change proposals to be presented at the 2017 NHLA Annual Convention October 25-27 in Nashville, Tennessee. Following the Rules meeting at the Annual Convention, the ballots will be sent out to all Active Members of the Association for a vote (November 2017). Notice of the Rules ballot tally will be released (December 2017). New Rules Book printed and effective January 1, 2019 Submit all Rules change proposals to the Chief Inspector by any of these three methods: Dana Spessert NHLA Chief Inspector PO Box 34518 Memphis, TN 38184-0518 d.spessert@nhla.com Fax: 901-399-7589 W W W. N H L A .CO M


JOIN OUR LUMBER PARTY Seamlessly managing domestic and international commodities logistics, delivered with superior customer service DUNAVANT.COM W W W. N H L A .CO M

|

888.955.3547 J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

19


JOB BOARD

* To view current job postings or to post a job, visit www.nhla.com/jobs.

LUMBER SALES

BPM Lumber, LLC is seeking an experienced lumber sales professional to sale Domestic Kiln Dried Lumber. You will need to have been trading Kiln dried lumber for at least 2 years. We need someone that wants to grow with a dynamic company and is willing to travel and work hard. Salary will be based on experience.

This is a full-time position offering benefits and a competitive salary package. To apply please Call 715-344-0878 and/or email resume to bgrezenski@grezenskiforestproducts.com.

Send resume to mcornett@bpmlumber.com to apply.

James Grezenski Forest Products Inc. 3158 County Road X North  |   Stevens Point, WI 54482 Phone: 715-344-0878  |   Fax: 715-344-1470

BPM Lumber, LLC 24 Seeley Road |   London, KY 40741 Phone: 606-434-0870  |   Fax: 606-877-1230

SAWYER

HARDWOOD LUMBER INSPECTOR

Graham Lumber Company is seeking a Hardwood Lumber Inspector. You will be grading Green Oak and Poplar. Salary will depend on experience. Send resume to ksnider@ahiwood.com to apply.

James Grezenski Forest Products Inc. desires an experienced sawyer. Applicants will be responsible for proper operation of the carriage. You must have knowledge and experience in the operation of the carriage. We will be willing to train serious candidates for the position. Applicants must saw logs for maximum value, follow daily cutting order and achieving proper levels of yield, as well as, do daily physical inspection of all equipment. This is a full-time position offering benefits and a competitive salary package.

Graham Lumber Co. Selmer, TN 38375 Phone: 731-645-9169

To apply please Call 715-344-0878 and/or email resume to bgrezenski@grezenskiforestproducts.com.

HARDWOOD LUMBER GRADER

James Grezenski Forest Products Inc. desires an experienced hardwood lumber grader with NHLA grading rules and training, certified. A hardwood lumber grader is responsible for visually inspecting green lumber according to species, grades, etc using NHLA lumber grading rules.

James Grezenski Forest Products Inc. 3158 County Road X North | Stevens Point, WI 54482 Phone: 715-344-0878  |   Fax: 715-344-1470

SHIPPING SUPERVISOR

YOUR ONE-STOP HARDWOOD MACHINERY SOURCE •

Resaw lines

Board & gang edger systems

Lumber handling equipment

Carriage/Headrig systems

Optimisation and control by Comact

Anderson Tully Company is seeking an experienced shipping supervisor with at least 3 to 5 years of experience. Salary will depend on experience. Send resume to carriec@andersontully.com to apply. Anderson Tully Co. 1725 North Washington St. |   Vicksburg, MS 39183 Phone: 601-629-6704

LUMBER GRADER

Legend Lumber Lee Corp. is seeking a lumber grader. Responsibilities will include inspecting and grading milled, rough-sawed lumber according to NHLA lumber rules. Examines lumber on green chain conveyor for defects, such as knots, stains, decay, splits, faulty edges, pitch pockets, wormholes and defective milling. Must have 2+ years experience and NHLA Certification. This position offers benefits and a competitive salary package. Send resume to CJTarr@legendlumber.com to apply.

418 484-2800 info@phlinc.ca phlinc.ca

20

Legend Lumber Lee Corp. 150 Sawmill Road |   Boston, KY 40107 Phone: 502-833-2903

Division of

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

RELIABLE PRODUCTIVITY

W W W. N H L A .CO M


Strong Roots, Global Reach with the NHLA Membership App! Interactive Membership List for your Desktop, Tablet and Phone

ATTRIBUTES Web and email links One-click calling Updated monthly

HIP S R E B MEM ORY T C E R I D

Download the FREE App at www.NHLAdirectory.com Contact John Hester at j.hester@nhla.com for advertising info. Advertising is limited to NHLA members only.

W W W. N H L A .CO M

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

21


CALENDAR

WH ERE IN THE WOR LD IS N H LA? IHLA Convention & Exposition

February 7-9  |   Indianapolis, Indiana Participating: Lorna D. Christie, Executive Director, John Hester, Director of Membership and Renee Hornsby, Director of Communications

Hardwood Federation Meeting

February 14-16  |   Washington, DC Participating: Lorna D. Christie, Executive Director

AHMI Annual Meeting

March 11-15  |   The Diplomat Resort & Spa - Hollywood, Florida Participating: Lorna D. Christie, Executive Director, John Hester, Director of Membership

CIFM / Interzum Guangzhou

March 28-31  |   Guangzhou, China Participating: Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector

Memphis, TN  |   March 7  |   NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Adam Taylor, Associate Professor University of Tennesse Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

1-Day Log Grading Short Course

Memphis, TN  |   March 8  |   NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Adam Taylor, Associate Professor University of Tennesse Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

5-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

Spencerville, IN  |   March 27-31  |   Graber Lumber Company Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

Inspector Training School Progressive Program Block 1 Memphis, TN  |   April 3-21 |   NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

KFIA Annual Meeting

April 4-6  |   Lexington, Kentucky Participating: John Hester, Director of Membership

Millersburg, OH  |   June 5-8  |   Yoder Lumber Buckhorn Division Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Gayla Fleming  |   614-497-9580  |   info@ohioforest.org

NWFA Expo 2017

4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

April 11-14  |   Phoenix, Arizona Participating: John Hester, Director of Membership

NHLA Board of Managers Meeting

April 24-26  |   Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort

EDUCATION & TRAIN I NG Inspector Training School Progressive Program Block 3

Memphis, TN  |   March 6-24  |   NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

5-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

Morehead, KY  |   March 6-10  |   Maysville Community and Technical College (Rowan Campus) Instructor: Benji Richards, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Dennis Perry  |   606-776-0800  |   dennisn.perry@kctcs.edu

22

1-Day Kiln Drying Class Short Course

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

Sandy Lake, PA  |   July 17-20  |   McKeever Environmental Learning Center Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Fran Bires  |   724-376-1000  |   fran@mckeever.org

5-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

Caledonia, MI  |   September 11-15  |   Kamps Hardwoods Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Becky Miller  |   901-399-7569  |   b.miller@nhla.com

5-Day Lumber Grading Short Course

Indianapolis, IN  |   September 18-22  |   Wood-Mizer Products, Inc. Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Denice Helmbrecht  |   317-875-3660  |   info@ihla.org

For applications, a complete listing of events and more information please visit www.nhla.com/calendar.

W W W. N H L A .CO M


NHLA EXPERTS AT THE READY Our Team of National Inspectors provide in-house company training for grading accuracy, upgrading, quality control & more.

Call Us at 901-377-1818

and see how we can help your business succeed.

nhla.com/trainingservices


THE GLOBAL GATHERING OF THE HARDWOOD COMMUNITY

Music City BRIGHT LIGHTS

SAVE THE DatE : Oct. 25-27

OMNI DOWNTOWN | NASHVILLE, TN | WWW.NHLACONVENTION.COM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.