The session will focus on developing or improving an in-house training program to build and sustain a skilled woodworking workforce.

Woodwork Career Alliance representatives Scott Nelson, left, and Bruce Spitz will offer their learned guidance for establishing an effective in-house training program.

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America will conduct a workshop at the International Woodworking Fair addressing the industry’s ongoing challenge to recruit, train and retain productive woodworkers.

The workshop, “Building a Training Program for Your Workers,” is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7. The discussion will be led by Scott Nelson, president of the WCA, and Bruce Spitz, member of the WCA Board of Directors. Both presenters have decades of experience running architectural woodworking companies.

Owners and managers of wood products manufacturing companies should attend the workshop for several compelling reasons:

1. Skill Enhancement: The workshop will provide insights and strategies for developing in-training programs tailored to the specific needs of wood products manufacturers. Attendees can learn about the WCA’s skill standards and credentialing programs geared toward enhancing the skillset of their workforce.
2. Increased Efficiency: Well-trained workers are more efficient and productive. By attending this workshop, owners and managers can gain valuable knowledge on how to design training programs that focus on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production processes within their manufacturing facilities.
3. Quality Improvement: Training programs can significantly impact product quality. A well-trained workforce is paramount for manufacturing wood products that meet or exceed industry standards and customer expectations.
4. Safety Compliance: Workplace safety is a must in manufacturing environments, especially in industries involving heavy machinery and equipment. This workshop can provide attendees with insights into developing training protocols that incorporates safety to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
5. Employee Retention and Satisfaction: Investing in employee training demonstrates a commitment to the professional development and well-being of staff members. By attending this workshop and implementing effective training programs, owners and managers can foster a positive work environment, enhance employee satisfaction, and improve retention rates.
6. Competitive Advantage: In today’s competitive market, companies that prioritize training and skill development often have a competitive edge. By attending this workshop and implementing innovative training initiatives, wood products manufacturers can differentiate themselves from competitors, attract top talent, and position their businesses for long-term success.
7. WCA MANufacturing Member Discount: Wood products companies attending this session qualify for a $150 discount off of the $250 annual MANufacturing membership.

Learn more and register.

About the Woodwork Career Alliance
The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America was founded in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. The WCA’s mission is to develop and administer a unified set of Skill Standards for the wood products industry. Since 2011, WCA has developed observable and measurable performance standards and assessments for more than 240 woodworking machine operations. In addition, WCA has issued over 6,000 Passport credentials, a portable, personal permanent record documenting each holder’s record of woodworking skill achievements. More than 140 high schools and post-secondary schools throughout North America are WCA EDUcation™ members and a growing number of woodworking companies have joined the WCA as MANufacturing™ members. To learn more about the WCA and how to get involved with its programs, including sponsorship opportunities, visit WoodworkCareer.org.