Mental Health in the Lumber Industry: The Tough Conversation We Can’t Afford to Ignore
In an industry built on tough, physically taxing work, it doesn’t always come naturally to talk about mental health. For too long, the lumber industry has perpetuated a “tough it out” mindset built around getting the job done and pushing forward. But there is a shift happening. Lumber dealers and operators recognize that to retain […]
Lumberyard 2.0: How Data and AI Are Helping Lumberyards Grow Sales
Lumberyards are at a pivotal moment. As competition intensifies and margins tighten, the most successful operators are turning to sales technology to better understand their business, improve customer relationships, and drive growth. The days of relying solely on gut instinct are over. Data-driven insights are key to staying ahead. Understand What You’re Selling and to […]
More Than Pretty Sticks of Wood: The Timeless Role of Moulding in Design
When people ask what I do for a living, I often say with a grin, “I sell pretty sticks of wood.” It’s a lighthearted reply that usually gets a laugh—but behind that smile lies more than three decades of experience in the building products industry and a deep appreciation for what moulding truly represents. Yes, […]
FIRING LINE: How LBM Salespeople Can Improve Communication with External & Internal Customers
Superior communication is one of the most valuable—and often underrated—tools an LBM salesperson has to work with. Whether you’re working with long-time customers, new customers, or your own colleagues in other departments … Clear and effective communication can be the difference between being a mediocre supplier and a trusted partner. Here’s the reality: the typical […]
FIRING LINE: What Makes a Great Sales Manager at an Independent Lumberyard
“Turning High Demand, Tight Margins, and Contractor Expectations Into Sales Leadership Success” As LBM dealers, the sales manager is the lynchpin between operations, outside sales, and customers—especially contractors. In an industry where product availability, pricing volatility, and service speed can make or break a sale, great sales managers do far more than push paperwork or […]
Rising Star: Austin Connelly
Location: Loudon, N.H.Position: Market Development Manager • National Nail How did you begin your career in the LBM industry? In 2021, I was approached about applying for my current position with National Nail. What I discovered was an employee-owned company whose mission and goals aligned with my own. The culture instilled in every employee-owner creates […]
NCTWC: Bridging the Gap, Building the Future
The construction industry is the backbone of modern society, responsible for building and maintaining homes, roads, schools, and the infrastructure that keeps our economy moving. Yet a significant crisis looms over this essential industry: a severe shortage of skilled labor. With an aging workforce and fewer young people entering the trades, construction companies—and the lumber […]
Onboarding: The First 90 Days
The term “onboarding” is often tossed around in the HR world, but not everyone knows what it is or how to do it. In basic terms, onboarding is the process of getting new hires acclimated to their new roles. It includes setting clear guidelines for performance and company culture and sharing the knowledge necessary for […]
Workforce Development: Led by Members, Driven by Action
At the American Building Materials Alliance (ABMA), we often say we’re member-driven—but nowhere is that more evident than in our work to improve workforce development across the industry. This isn’t a campaign built on theory or headlines—it’s grounded in what our members are already doing. Every day, ABMA members are building partnerships, opening doors, and […]
NYLE: Where Growth Takes Root
A behind-the-scenes Q&A with NYLE leaders past and present, highlighting growth, leadership, and legacy. (This is an expanded version of an article that appeared in the May 2025 issue of the LC.) In an industry that values tradition while constantly adapting to meet the needs of a new generation, the North American Young Lumber Employees […]