Wednesday, January 7, 2026
The Wood Products Manufacturers Association (WPMA), a leading national organization representing secondary wood products manufacturers across the United States, has officially announced its Board of Directors and officers for 2026. The newly elected leadership team brings together a broad range of expertise from lumber, millwork, veneer, plywood, and architectural wood products, positioning the association to continue advocating for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth within the wood products industry.
According to the association, the 2026 board reflects both continuity and forward-looking leadership. With representatives drawn from family-owned businesses and long-established manufacturers as well as innovative specialty producers, WPMA’s leadership embodies the diversity and resilience of the U.S. forest products sector. This collective experience will play a critical role as the industry navigates ongoing challenges, including workforce development, supply chain volatility, regulatory compliance, and evolving sustainability expectations.
Alongside the announcement of its new board, WPMA formally recognized Scott Ferland, president of Maine Woods Company, for his distinguished service as the association’s president during the previous term. Ferland’s leadership was marked by a strong emphasis on member engagement, strategic collaboration, and reinforcing WPMA’s core mission of supporting secondary wood products manufacturers.
During his tenure, Ferland worked to strengthen connections among member companies, encourage open dialogue on shared challenges, and elevate the association’s visibility within the broader forest products industry. His efforts contributed to increased participation in WPMA programs and reinforced the association’s role as a trusted resource for manufacturers nationwide.
In recognition of his dedication, Ferland was presented with a handcrafted wooden rocker at the WPMA 2025 annual meeting. The chair, built by WPMA member Standard Chair, symbolized both the craftsmanship at the heart of the industry and the association’s appreciation for Ferland’s commitment to service. Ferland will continue to support the organization in 2026 as Immediate Past President, providing continuity and institutional knowledge to the incoming leadership team.
The WPMA officers for 2026 represent companies deeply rooted in the wood products value chain, from lumber production to finished millwork:
As president, Melnyk Jr. brings extensive experience in millwork and lumber operations, offering practical insight into the needs of secondary manufacturers. His leadership is expected to focus on strengthening member value, supporting operational excellence, and expanding WPMA’s influence within the national wood products landscape.
Supporting the officers is a strong slate of directors, each representing a unique segment of the industry:
Together, these directors provide a comprehensive perspective on manufacturing, distribution, and value-added wood products. Their collective backgrounds span molding and millwork, hardwood and softwood lumber, plywood, veneer, and architectural components—sectors that are essential to residential construction, commercial building, furniture manufacturing, and custom woodworking across the U.S.
WPMA stated that the 2026 board will concentrate on initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to members while strengthening the long-term competitiveness of the wood products industry. Key priorities include expanding industry partnerships, enhancing educational and networking opportunities, and supporting sustainable manufacturing practices that align with responsible forest management.
As sustainability continues to shape market demand and regulatory frameworks, WPMA aims to help members adapt through shared best practices, advocacy, and access to reliable industry information. Workforce development is also expected to remain a central focus, as manufacturers seek to attract skilled labor and preserve traditional craftsmanship while adopting modern production technologies.
“This diverse and experienced team reflects the strength of WPMA’s membership and its commitment to collaboration, innovation, and service excellence,” the association noted in its announcement. “Their work in 2026 will focus on enhancing value for members, expanding industry partnerships, and driving initiatives that support sustainable growth for wood products manufacturers.”
With its 2026 leadership in place, WPMA enters the coming year well-positioned to serve as a unifying voice for secondary wood products manufacturers nationwide. By leveraging the expertise of its officers and directors, the association plans to continue advocating for policies and programs that support a healthy, competitive, and sustainable U.S. wood products industry.
As market conditions evolve and opportunities emerge, WPMA’s new board is expected to play a pivotal role in helping members adapt, innovate, and thrive—ensuring that wood products manufacturing remains a vital contributor to the American economy and to the communities it supports.
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Tags: forest products industry news, lumber and millwork leadership, sustainable wood manufacturing, wood manufacturing association USA, Wood Products Manufacturers Association, WPMA 2026 board of directors
