Evolution: HMA’s Theme For NatCon Reflects This Industry’s Current Situation
Members and guests gathered recently at the Knoxville Convention Center for the Hardwood Manufacturers Association’s (HMA) 2025 National Conference and Expo in Knoxville, TN. This year’s theme was Evolution, aptly describing the transition the industry is experiencing.
In addition to high-quality exhibitor booths, an informative slate of learning sessions was available to attendees as well as an abundance of networking opportunities.
Among the speakers at this year’s event were the following:
Best-selling author Shawn DuBravac provided a current look at the U.S. economy and a forward-looking analysis of trends to watch.
Scott Dane, executive director of the American Loggers Council, discussed issues facing the forest management, timber harvesting and log hauling sectors at both the state and national levels.
Carrie Annand, executive director of the American Biomass Energy Association, discussed the industrial market for chips, sawdust and forest residuals in the U.S.
forest residuals in the U.S.
On the topic of hardwood ties, a panel led by moderator Claire Getty of Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods discussed the state of the hardwood railway tie industry and trends to watch. Jason Dallas of Stella-Jones Corp. and Tony Machamer of Koppers were on the panel.
Pressing topics on Capitol Hill and around the world were discussed by Dana Lee Cole, the Hardwood Federation’s executive director, and Tripp Pryor, the international program manager for the American Hardwood Export Council.
Other speakers included Farrah Newberry, vice president of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs for The Dairy Alliance who discussed how the dairy industry paved a path for the future of milk and dairy products by investing in promotion, education and research.
Larry Pitts and Caley Peyton with the Tennessee Forestry Association shed light on ForestryWorks and how that initiative is working to create a sustainable pipeline of qualified workers for generations to come.
The Hardwood Manufacturers Association is the only national trade organization with membership limited to hardwood sawmills and lumber concentration yards located in the U.S.
Want to learn more? Visit hmamembers.org.
