The National Hardwood Wood Lumber Association (NHLA) was thrilled to recently announce the graduation of the 207th Class from the NHLA’s renowned Inspector Training School (ITS). The ceremony took place at NHLA headquarters in Memphis, TN, featuring inspiring speeches that celebrated the graduates’ achievements and the promising future of the hardwood industry.
NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert opened the event by congratulating the students on mastering in eight weeks what was once a six-month curriculum. He highlighted the evolving nature of the grading industry, stating, “The future looks great for what you’re stepping into.”
Mark Scholl, a Class 190 graduate and representative of East Perry Lumber Co., praised Class 207’s unique position in the industry. Despite smaller class sizes, he reminded graduates of the exciting opportunities ahead: “Y’all are positioned perfectly… that will serve you well in the future.”
NHLA ITS Instructor and Associate Dean Roman Matyushchenko then expressed gratitude to sponsors and staff, urging graduates to “never stop learning” and to stay connected by sharing their accomplishments: “We want to hear your success stories.”
Class President Benjamin Fly, of Fly Tie & Lumber Company Inc., acknowledged the changing landscape of the industry and celebrated his class’ resilience. “As we move forward in this industry… we are facing challenges that our grandfathers did not… Collectively, we will keep this industry strong and moving forward,” he affirmed.
NHLA proudly recognizes the achievements of the 207th Class, along with the following award winners and scholarship recipient:
• Highest Overall Average: Dustin Lorenz – ITSEF Award: $250 check and plaque
• Second Highest Overall Average: Benjamin Fly – Howard Hanlon Award: $150 check and plaque
• Highest Board Run Average: Dustin Lorenz – Westside Hardwood Club Award: $75 check and plaque
• Best Attitude/Citizenship: Kirsten Vandenberg – Milt Cole Award: $100 check and plaque
• Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) Scholarship Recipient: Elisha Burr Coleman
The graduates of Class 207 are:
• Justin Lee Buennemeyer – Sponsored by John Boos
• Daniel Bustard – Sponsored by Middle Tennessee Lumber Co., Inc.
• Elisha Burr Coleman – Independent
• Benjamin Fly – Sponsored by Fly Tie & Lumber Co., Inc.
• Ken Lin – Sponsored by Robinson Lumber Co.
• Dustin Lee Lorenz – Sponsored by East Perry Lumber Co.
• Kirsten Vandenberg – Sponsored by Snowbelt Hardwoods
Support Future Graduates
The NHLA Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) plays a vital role in providing scholarships and opportunities for students. To learn more or contribute, visit ITSEF’s webpage at https://nhla.com/education/inspector-training-school-educational-foundation/ or scan the QR code below.
Your support helps NHLA continue to invest in the future of the hardwood industry.
