“Agents Of Change”

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What a time to be alive! The world is in a concerning “state of flux;” changing how we live; changing how we do business! Tensions are running high, and the disquiet being felt by everyone is real. Where is HMA in all of this?

HMA’s bottom line has always been the furtherance of the Hardwood industry and the interests of our members. So from where I sit, HMA will either serve as an agent of change and evolve with the happenings around us, or we, and our members, will be left behind. That latter option does not sit well with me. During this unprecedented time, HMA is aiming to show even greater value. And here’s how.

We’re building our 2023 National Conference and Expo around the theme of “Agents of Change.” We’re developing an agenda and compiling a dais of presenters that will speak to the issues currently impacting all industry stakeholders – leadership, communication, innovation, technology, manufacturing, domestic and global economies, Hardwood market trends and forecasts.

Our 2 ½ day Conference will take place March 22 – 24 at the JW Marriott Nashville. And here are a few of the up-front details. Get your planning started, please.

JW Marriott Nashville – Inspired by Nashville’s rustic elegance and surrounded by the sights and sounds of downtown Nashville, this 33-story modern oasis offers stunning skyline views from all of its rooms and suites, and stands as the pinnacle of luxury in Music City. Everything goes beyond the ordinary at JW Marriott.

About Nashville – In Music City it’s all about having a good time. And there’s no wrong way to spend your Nashville nights. Walk “the District” to experience award-winning cuisine. Sip a craft cocktail at a rooftop bar. Pop into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Then enjoy the ambience of Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge or the Wildhorse Saloon. Everyone’s welcome in Music City and you’ll be hard pressed to “find a city more accommodating, authentic and accessible than Nashville.”

Future issues of this fine publication will include greater detail regarding the event, but in the meantime, I encourage you to make frequent visits to HMAmembers.org for program specifics, sponsorship opportunities, hotel information, a listing of participating industry suppliers, and more.

Not an HMA member, but interested in attending the event? Not to worry. HMA’s National Conference and Expo is open to all industry stakeholders. You read that correctly. All Hardwood lumber producers and processors are welcome to attend. You have my personal invitation to join us in Nashville.

For sure, now is not a time for the faint of heart. Plan to be in Nashville in March. And join us in being “Agents of Change.”

By Linda Jovanovich

Executive Vice President, Hardwood Manufacturers Association, Pittsburgh, PA 412-244-0440 HMAMEMBERS.ORG

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