What makes the Hardwood Manufacturers Association (HMA) unique? Ask a member and they’ll likely tell you that they find value in what the HMA offers. From signature events to extraordinary opportunities for networking, information exchange, and professional development, to promotion and education campaigns, there are many ways in which HMA membership can add value to your company.
HMA’s National Conference and Expo is an annual two-day event that features speakers, workshops, and roundtables on issues facing the industry—from manufacturing and market trends to domestic and global economics. Industry suppliers present their newest technologies. And receptions provide opportunities for peer-to-peer networking and information exchange.
Mark your calendars for HMA’s 2025 National Conference and Expo, which will take place Tuesday–Thursday, June 10–12, in Knoxville, TN. More details are available online at HMAmembers.org. I hope to see you there!
HMA also hosts Regional Meetings twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, to tour sawmills, concentration yards, and secondary manufacturing facilities. These “member-only” events enable attendees to see the latest technology and equipment at work, see solutions to common problems, and participate in lively discussions with industry colleagues.
And for our industry’s future leaders, HMA offers the NextGen Leaders Council. Council members serve two-year terms and participate in a number of professional and personal development programs and HMA-sponsored projects. Members also are encouraged to participate in HMA Board of Directors meetings, as well as Hardwood Federation Fly-Ins, in order to become more familiar with all aspects of the HMA and gain insights into industry issues. Membership is open to anyone under the age of 40 who is currently employed by an HMA member company. A new group will be starting up later this year in June. If you’d like to nominate a potential leader from your company, reach out to ian@hardwood.org.
HMA also maintains solid American hardwood promotion and education campaigns. The American Hardwood Information Center (AHIC) at HardwoodInfo.com aims to position American hardwoods as the products of choice for both the consumer and prosumer audiences. The robust website is regularly updated with original editorial content, advice from industry experts, design trends, care and maintenance tips, and installation and finishing techniques. Visitors also will find a comprehensive species guide, and the Guide to American Hardwoods mobile app. And for architects and interior designers, there are continuing education units, as well as the American Hardwoods Collection—a sample kit featuring 20 of the most abundant American hardwoods.
If your company is a sawmill or concentration yard located in the U.S., consider joining the HMA. Visit HMAmembers.org to learn more or send me an email at ian@hardwood.org and let’s chat about how joining the HMA can benefit your company.
