Class 210 Graduates From NHLA Inspector Training School

Class 210 Graduates From NHLA Inspector Training School

The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) Inspector Training School (ITS) celebrated the graduation of Class 210 recently at the school’s Memphis campus, marking another milestone in a 77-year tradition of advancing grading expertise and strengthening the hardwood industry.

NHLA Executive Director Dallin Brooks opened with a challenge and a charge: think beyond lumber grades to the larger environmental story that wood tells. “Every board you touch is half carbon,” he said, urging graduates to see their daily work as both an economic and environmental stewardship role. He underscored how carbon remains stored for the lifespan of wood products—and how strong wood markets keep forests as forests: “The forest that pays, stays.”

Class Instructor and Associate Dean Roman Matyushchenko congratulated the cohort—one of the largest in recent years—and thanked employers for investing in their teams.

Adam Conway of Superior Hardwoods of Ohio, who delivered the Graduation Address, reminded graduates that optimization technology only creates value when it’s guided by people who truly understand the NHLA Rules. “When you call a grade, you’re counting money,” Conway said. “Your education here gives you the foundation to be decision-makers—always look for the upgrade.”

Class President Logan McCord led his peers through the ceremony, representing his classmates with professionalism and pride.

Awards & Recognition included:

• Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) Scholarship: Logan McCord

• Best Attitude & Citizenship: Owen O’Donnell

(Additional performance awards were presented during the ceremony.)

Class 210 Graduates & Sponsors included:

• Caleb Bell — Superior Hardwoods of Ohio Inc.

• Gray Bigford — Northside Tie and Timber LLC

• Charlie Erekson — Banks Hardwoods Inc.

• Trent Gray — Volner Sawmill Inc.

• Wade King — Volner Sawmill Inc.

• Allison Ann Koeberl — East Perry Lumber Co.

• Ayham Massarani — Holtz Wood Export Inc.

• Logan McCord — Independent

• Owen O’Donnell — Bauman Sawmill Inc.

• Logan Overbay — Clinch River Hardwoods Inc.

• Tyler Sandborn — Kamps Hardwoods Inc.

• Nathan Smith — Superior Hardwoods of Ohio Inc.

Continuing the Legacy

The Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) was established in 2012 by ITS alumni and industry supporters to help future students achieve their educational goals. Scholarships are awarded to individuals who demonstrate commitment to advancing in the hardwood industry but may need financial assistance to attend the program.

To learn more about ITSEF scholarships or to donate to support future students, visit nhla.com/education.

Learn More About The NHLA Journey:

The NHLA Inspector Training School (ITS) offers one in-person session each year in Memphis, TN. For those seeking a more flexible option, the NHLA Inspector Online Training Program provides the same foundational instruction through a three-module hybrid format that blends online learning with hands-on training.

Upcoming Hybrid Course — Module 1 (NHLA Headquarters) Dates: March 2 – 13, 2026

Schedule: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Venue: NHLA, 6830 Raleigh-LaGrange Rd., Memphis, TN 38134

Instructor: Roman Matyushchenko

This innovative program allows students to complete the NHLA Inspector Training School while spending less time on campus. It’s ideal for self-motivated learners seeking a flexible, affordable path to certification.

The Online Program includes three modules totaling 384 contact hours:

• Module 1: Two weeks on-site at NHLA Headquarters (March 2 – 13, 2026)

• Module 2: Online study for up to one year from any location

• Module 3: Three weeks on-site in Memphis focused on testing, grading, and one-on-one instruction

After completing all three modules, students earn a Certificate of Completion.

The Online Program requires only five weeks on campus (two weeks + three weeks) compared with the regular eight-week program.

Tuition: $2,100 for all modules ($50 deposit due at registration; balance due 10 days before class start)

For details or to register: Visit nhla.com/education or contact Roman Matyushchenko at r.matyushchenko@nhla.com or (901) 643-3544.

Closing Thought

Graduates left with certificates—and a bigger mission. As Brooks framed it, Class 210 now carries two titles: hardwood professionals and environmental storytellers. With rules expertise, technology fluency, and a clear view of wood’s carbon value, they’re ready to create better products, stronger businesses, and healthier forests.

Learn more at nhla.com.