Thursday, August 7, 2025
APA (The Engineered Wood Association) has announced key leadership changes, including the election of a new Vice Chair and the addition of two members to its Board of Trustees. This marks a significant moment for the association, as these appointments promise to bring fresh perspectives and leadership to the engineered wood industry.
John Murphy Jr., Executive Vice President of Murphy Company, has been appointed the new vice chair of the APA Board of Trustees. Murphy succeeds Chris Degnan, who has retired after serving more than five years on the board, including two years as vice chair. Degnan’s retirement follows a remarkable tenure that has seen him play an integral role in advancing the industry’s interests. Murphy, who has been with Murphy Company for many years, will take on the responsibilities that come with his new role. “We sincerely thank Chris for his years of support to APA and EWTA,” said APA President Mark Tibbetts. “His leadership, insight, and dedication have had a lasting impact on the industry, and we are grateful for his contributions. We wish him the very best as he moves forward.”
Chris Degnan’s leadership over the past five years has been highly valued, particularly in his role as chair of the Engineered Wood Technology Association (EWTA) Advisory Committee. During his time on the board, Degnan helped guide the association through a period of growth, development, and significant industry challenges. Under his leadership, APA expanded its outreach and initiatives, and his decision to retire leaves big shoes to fill.
John Murphy Jr.’s career graph in the wood industry
Murphy’s career in the wood industry has been a long and impactful one, beginning with his work at the family’s veneer mill in White City, Oregon. He later helped establish the company’s plywood mill in Rogue River, Oregon, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in the business. This solid foundation laid the groundwork for Murphy’s future leadership at the company.
Since joining Murphy Company’s headquarters in 2013, Murphy has been integral in all facets of the business, from timber sourcing to engineered wood production and sales. His academic background in wood science and engineering from Oregon State University has played a pivotal role in his ability to oversee the company’s operations with a deep technical understanding. His leadership has contributed to the growth of the business, ensuring that Murphy Company remains a key player in the engineered wood market.
Murphy’s new role as vice chair of the APA Board of Trustees will allow him to bring this wealth of industry knowledge and practical experience to the table. His expertise in timber sourcing and engineered wood production will be invaluable as the APA continues its work to foster the growth and development of the wood products industry.
Jon Rashleigh joins the Board of Trustees
Alongside Murphy’s appointment, Jon Rashleigh has also joined the Board of Trustees. Rashleigh is the Vice President of Panels at Weyerhaeuser, one of the largest forest products companies in the world. At Weyerhaeuser, he oversees a broad range of operations, including oriented strand board (OSB), medium-density fiberboard (MDF), plywood, and Montana lumber.
Rashleigh’s career in the wood products industry spans over three decades, beginning with Plum Creek in 1991 before the company merged with Weyerhaeuser. His leadership journey has been extensive, having held multiple positions across various aspects of the business, including marketing, procurement, and business development. Rashleigh’s extensive knowledge of timberlands and wood products, combined with his leadership experience, makes him an excellent addition to the APA Board of Trustees.
Throughout his career, Rashleigh has been a steadfast supporter of both the APA and the Engineered Wood Technology Association (EWTA), and his deep commitment to the industry is well-known. His new position on the board will allow him to continue advocating for the advancement of the engineered wood sector, leveraging his decades of expertise to help steer the association into the future. As the APA welcomes Murphy and Rashleigh to its Board of Trustees, the association enters a new chapter of leadership that promises to guide the engineered wood industry through a changing landscape. The addition of these experienced industry professionals reflects the association’s ongoing commitment to advancing the interests of wood products manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
Murphy and Rashleigh’s combined experience in engineered wood production, timber sourcing, and business development ensures that the APA will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry. Their leadership will be instrumental as the APA looks to build on the strong foundation laid by outgoing vice chair Chris Degnan, whose service to the board has left a lasting legacy. The APA, through its work and leadership, plays an essential role in driving innovation and sustainability in the wood products industry. As engineered wood products continue to gain popularity for their strength, versatility, and environmental benefits, the association’s efforts to promote research, education, and industry standards will be critical to the sector’s ongoing success.
With these new appointments, the Engineered Wood Association is poised to continue its mission of supporting the growth and development of the engineered wood industry. The fresh leadership brings a renewed sense of purpose and vision, ensuring that the APA remains a key advocate for the sector in the years to come.
The election of John Murphy Jr. as vice chair of the APA Board of Trustees, coupled with the addition of Jon Rashleigh to the board, represents a significant shift in leadership for the Engineered Wood Association. With decades of experience between them, both Murphy and Rashleigh are well-positioned to lead the association into the future and continue advancing the interests of the engineered wood industry. Their expertise in timber sourcing, engineered wood production, and business development will be invaluable as they work to promote the growth and sustainability of the sector.
As the APA looks ahead, these new leaders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the engineered wood industry, driving innovation, and ensuring that the association remains at the forefront of industry developments.
For more updates, visit the European woodworking industry website: woodandpanel.com
Tags: APA Board of Trustees, Chris Degnan, Engineered Wood Association, engineered wood industry, EWTA, John Murphy Jr., Jon Rashleigh, new vice chair, plywood, timber sourcing, weyerhaeuser, wood science
