Industry News
Ready Pine Expands Distribution Network And Hires New Account Exec.
Chris Martin
Ready Pine, located in Waterloo, ON, recently announced an expansion of its distribution network through a new partnership with WS Building Materials. Ready Pine, manufacturers of pre-finished T&G Pine panels for interior walls, ceilings and exterior soffits is now available at WS Building Materials branches in Green Bay and Jackson, WI, Riverdale, IL, and Sioux Falls, SD. Ready Pine has been distributed from their Comstock Park, MI, branch since 2023.
This strategic expansion significantly increases accessibility to Ready Pine’s premium Pine products for designers, contractors and retailers across the Midwest. Customers in these regions will benefit from improved product availability, faster fulfillment times, and the trusted service standards of both companies.
“Partnering with WS Building Materials represents an important step forward in our growth strategy,” said Chris Martin, president at Ready Pine.
WS Building Materials will stock a range of Ready Pine products tailored to meet the needs of residential and commercial construction projects. The expansion is expected to support increased demand for quality wood products. The rollout across the four branches is effective immediately.
“At WS Building Materials, we are always looking to expand our offerings with products that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said John Lesher, COO at WS Building Materials.
WS Building Materials is a building materials distribution company formed from the legacy organizations of Weekes Forest Products and Snavely Forest Products. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of MacArthur Company and 100 percent employee owned.
Connor Lund
In related news, Ready Pine recently announced Connor Lund was hired as an account executive.
Lund is new to the lumber/building products industry with previous experience in beverage sales. Lund graduated from the Advertising and Marketing Communications Management program at Mohawk College in Hamilton, ON, in 2022.
He has a passion for sales and providing solutions through building relationships. He is also an avid curling player and fan. Looking forward, Lund shared that he is excited to continue to learn and grow his knowledge and expertise in the world of lumber sales.
For more details, contact (519) 504-2939 email connor@readypine.com or visit readypine.com.
Ryan Marrs Joins McDonough Manufacturing And Announces OptiX MAXX Resaw System With Automation & Electronics USA
Ryan Marrs
McDonough Manufacturing recently announced the hire of Ryan Marrs as a sales representative.
Marrs brings 22 years in the hardwood lumber industry, with a background that spans logging, lumber inspection, headsaw and resaw operations, sawmill and plant management, engineering, capital projects, and multi-site operations. He has worked his way through the business from the production floor to management, giving him a well-rounded understanding of how mills operate day to day.
He attended the National Hardwood Lumber Association Inspector Training School and completed a Project Management course through Syracuse University. Most of his knowledge, however, comes from years of working directly in mills and learning what works and what does not in real operating conditions.
Throughout his career, Marrs has managed multiple sawmill operations, led capital improvement projects, and worked closely with equipment suppliers. Now he’s able to bring that experience directly to customers, helping them make equipment decisions that make sense for their operation.
McDonough Manufacturing and Automation & Electronics (A&E) partnered to create the OptiX MAXX Resaw System.
“I’ve spent my career working through many of the same challenges mills face every day,” said Marrs.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Marrs now lives in Western New York with his wife Beth and their seven children. Outside of work, he enjoys construction projects, operating equipment, working on his property, camping and spending time with his family, often supporting his kids in their many sporting activities.
In other news, McDonough Manufacturing Company based in Eau Claire, WI, and Arden, NC-based, Automation & Electronics (A&E) recently announced a strategic partnership to introduce the OptiX MAXX Resaw System, a fully integrated, grade optimized solution designed to improve recovery, consistency and efficiency in modern sawmill operations.
The OptiX MAXX system combines McDonough’s AutoMAXX automated resaw with A&E’s OptiX vision optimization and grading technology, bringing scanning, decision-making and mechanical execution into one coordinated system. By connecting optimization directly to equipment performance, the system supports more consistent results while reducing reliance on manual input.
Matt Tietz
“By working together, we are able to offer a more complete solution at the resaw,” said Matt Tietz, owner of McDonough Manufacturing. “Integrating A&E’s optimization technology allows us to connect decision-making directly to system performance.”
A&E’s OptiX technology scans and evaluates material prior to cutting, determining the most effective sawing strategy based on geometry, visual defects and value. These decisions are then executed automatically by the AutoMAXX system, which receives inputs such as cant rotation, fence positioning, cutting speeds and outfeed routing.
Joe Korac
“Optimization is most effective when it is fully integrated into the process,” said Joe Korac, president of A&E. “With OptiX MAXX, we are combining vision-based grading with proven equipment to deliver consistent results at the resaw.”
The OptiX MAXX system is designed for both new installations and existing operations. It can be integrated into current McDonough resaw systems, allowing mills to upgrade performance without replacing their entire line. With the addition of automated turning, a new infeed system and OptiX optimization, mills can modernize incrementally while improving recovery and reducing variability.
McDonough Manufacturing, founded in 1888, and Automation & Electronics (A&E) bring together decades of experience in mechanical systems and optimization technology to deliver a practical, integrated solution for today’s sawmills.
Visit mcdonough-mfg.com or automationelec.com for more.
Carbotech Strengthens Its Presence In South America Through Partnership
Eric Michaud
Carbotech, based in Plessisville, QC, recently announced the signing of a strategic agreement with manufacturer’s agent Innovación Nórdica to represent its solutions across key South American markets, including Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Uruguay. This partnership brings Carbotech closer to its customers by providing responsive sales support and tailored after-sales service.
A Strategic Move to Better Serve Local Markets
By partnering with Innovación Nórdica, Carbotech reinforces its presence with existing clients while unlocking new growth opportunities in a rapidly expanding market. “This collaboration is supported by a trusted local partner with a strong regional footprint and deep market knowledge. Through this partnership, we are also leveraging our recognized expertise to help sawmills and planing mills across Latin America optimize their operations and enhance their competitiveness on the global stage,” said Eric Michaud, vice president, sales and marketing at Carbotech.
Advanced Equipment to Drive Operational Performance
Innovación Nórdica will represent Carbotech’s full portfolio of wood industry solutions, including processing equipment for sawmills and planing mills, automation systems and AI-powered cutting optimization technologies.
“Welcoming a Canadian industry leader like Carbotech enhances our value proposition and broadens our portfolio of solutions for the South American market,” added Vasco Ortuzar, general manager of Innovación Nórdica.
In practical terms, Carbotech’s equipment enables companies to get the most out of every log by improving cutting precision and maximizing material utilization.
For nearly 40 years, Carbotech has been specializing in optimizing operations for sawmills and planing mills. The company designs and manufactures log and lumber handling equipment, sawing solutions, as well as optimization and automation systems.
Innovación Nórdica specializes in introducing advanced technologies to the wood processing industry across Latin America. Acting as both a commercial and technical partner, the company connects international manufacturers with key industry players and supports project development from design through implementation.
For more information about Carbotech, call 941-313-1296, email eric.michaud@carbotech.ca or visit carbotech.ca.
Comact Launches New Generation Miller Planer And Announces Acquisition Of Oleson Saw Technology
Simon Potvin
Comact, a global leader in high-performance OEM wood-processing technologies, recently announced its new generation Miller Planer. This redesign introduces targeted improvements to support product quality, operational reliability, and maintenance.
“Engineered for high-speed production, the new generation Miller Planer transforms rough lumber into market-ready products with consistent dimensional accuracy and a uniform surface finish. The updated design preserves the core principles of the Miller concept while integrating enhancements aligned with current planer mill requirements,” stated a Comact company source.
“At Comact, we continuously work to ensure our equipment meets the highest performance standards in the industry,” said Simon Potvin, CEO of Comact. “This new generation Miller Planer reflects that commitment, building on a proven design while raising the bar for reliability, consistency and maintainability.”
The new generation Miller Planer is available for new installations and as retrofit solutions for existing equipment, allowing mills to modernize critical systems and extend equipment life without full replacement.
In other news, Comact recently announced the completion of its acquisition of Oleson Saw Technology, a leader in wide bandsaw blade manufacturing.
Based in York, PA, Oleson Saw Technology has built a reputation for supporting sawmills across North America with wide bandsaw blades and filing room equipment. Oleson will continue operating from its existing York facility, ensuring continuity for customers and employees. As part of the transaction, Comact reaffirms its commitment to supporting Oleson’s continued distribution of Swiss-made ISELI filing room equipment for bandsaws and circular saws.
“Oleson Saw Technology has been built on a strong commitment to its employees, its customers and delivering high-quality bandsaw blades to the industry,” said Mary Chairs, president of York Saw & Knife Company Inc. and Oleson Saw Technology.
“This acquisition represents an important step in strengthening our cutting and saw technology portfolio,” said Adam Infanti, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Comact. “Oleson’s expertise in wide bandsaw blades and its strong market reputation complement our existing capabilities and strengthen our position in cutting solutions.”
As part of this transition, Oleson Saw Technology will introduce an updated visual identity aligned with Comact’s branding, along with a new website at olesonsaw.com.
For over 100 years, Comact has been a leading OEM in high-caliber wood processing equipment, digital technologies, cutting solutions, project services and aftermarket support. “Driven by innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to helping our customers address their most pressing operational and business challenges in today’s industry,” shared a Comact company representative.
“Whether for brownfield or greenfield projects, Comact’s expertise provides wood processing facilities with the confidence that their investments will yield superior performance, throughput and ROI. This ensures they remain competitive and achieve sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. Trust Comact to deliver exceptional performance every time,” added the representative.
For more information, visit comact.com.
DO2 Unveils New Robotic Innovation
DO2’s new robot.
Dolbeau Oxygène Inc. (DO2), based in Dolbeau-Mistassini, QC, recently introduced its newest robotic innovation for the wood processing industry. Powered by an intelligent 3D vision system, the robot is designed to detect, remove and reposition misaligned or non-compliant wood pieces in real time before they disrupt production.
This advanced technology helps reduce production stoppages, eliminate manual intervention, improve production flow and maximize operational efficiency. The system can identify crooked, overlapping or sideways pieces and quickly correct them without interrupting the line.
“Following the successful completion of our first installation, the results have confirmed the robot’s reliability and performance in demanding production environments. Designed to adapt to multiple wood applications, the system performs efficiently across various wood sectors, including both softwood and hardwood industries.
“With this new innovation, DO2 continues to push the limits of automation, vision technology and robotics for the future of wood processing,” stated a DO2 company representative.
For more details, visit do2.ca.
Brunette Salem Gains Steven Dasanjh
Steven Dasanjh
Steven Dasanjh was recently hired as an inside salesman for Salem, OR-based, forestry machinery and equipment manufacturer, Brunette Salem. Brunette Machinery is the parent company of Brunette Salem.
The United States are Brunette’s sales regions and carriage drives with new automation features (model CDR350) are one of many products offered. Value-added processes offered by Brunnette include customized line design, custom fabrication and installation assistance and field support, in addition to rebuilding and remanufacturing used machines.
Dasanjh’s first position in the industry was working the weekend graveyard clean-up shift at the West Fraser Williams Lake mill while he was in high school. His father was employed at that mill for 40 years.
“It feels good to be coming back to an industry I grew up in after developing my business and sales skills in other industries,” shared Dasanjh, who also has experience in selling hydraulic and industrial hoses and fitting them.
He attended Columneetza Junior Secondary in Williams Lake, BC, before going to college at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC, to study criminology and receive an Associate of Arts diploma.
He enjoys playing and watching hockey, basketball, soccer and football. He also enjoys travelling and seeing new places. Assisting the less fortunate by helping prepare and hand out meals once a month is a hobby of his as well.
He has been married to Geena Mindy Kaur Sangra for eight years. They have an eight-year-old son and a soon-to-be six-year-old daughter.
Brunette Salem is the official equipment vendor partner for the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) and an official supplier member of the Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers Inc. (AHMI). In addition to the NHLA and AHMI, Brunette is also a member of the following: Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association and the US Industrial Pellet Association. The company has exhibition partnerships with Council of Forest Industries, Forest Products Machinery and Equipment Expo and International Biomass Conference.
To learn more, call 604-547-0399, email steven@brunettesalem.com, or visit BrunetteSalem.com.
PLM Announces Key Leadership Moves And Promotions
Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company (PLM), recently introduced several executive leadership changes and promotions across the organization. The executive-level changes demonstrate the company’s commitment to strategically prepare for the future with an eye toward continued profitability, growth and innovation.
Steve Firko
Steve Firko, CPCU, a PLM veteran of over two decades, will assume the role of president, effective immediately. Firko will be responsible for executing the company’s strategic vision and overseeing key departments, including claims, accounting, regulatory, human resources and information technology. Firko succeeds John K. Smith, CPCU, as president. With over 27 years of experience at PLM, Smith will continue in his role as chief executive officer, with Firko reporting to him.
Firko joined PLM as a field manager and ascended into a variety of leadership roles across marketing, underwriting, claims, loss control, customer service and operations, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief operating officer. Throughout Firko’s nearly 40 years of experience, he has worked closely with insureds, brokers and industry associations within the wood and insurance sectors.
Other executive changes and promotions announced by PLM include:
Lindsey N. DiGangi
• Lindsey N. DiGangi, CPCU, promoted to senior vice president and COO, succeeding Steve Firko. Previously serving in leadership roles across several departments, she will now oversee underwriting, field operations, loss control, marketing, customer service, operations and agency operations (Green Tree Risk Partners).
BJ Gardner
• BJ Gardner, promoted to assistant vice president of information technology. He most recently served as director of IT and brings nearly 20 years of experience at PLM across systems architecture, infrastructure and technology operations.
Ray Rogers
• Ray Rogers, promoted to assistant vice president of claims. He previously served as director of property claims and has more than two decades of experience at PLM, progressing through multiple claims roles since joining the company in 2001.
Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company is a property and casualty insurance carrier serving the lumber, woodworking and building material industries. Backed by over 130 years of experience, the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based company protects over 5,500 businesses nationwide with property, general liability, inland marine, business automobile, commercial excess liability and equipment breakdown coverages.
For more information about PLM, visit plmins.com.
