In 1948, we established a vocational training school to teach the rules and application of the NHLA grading system and help meet the industry’s increasing demand for skilled lumber inspectors. Since our founding, we’ve trained over 6,500 lumber inspectors.
Our graduates are qualified for immediate employment as lumber inspectors. Because of our established reputation and the strong demand for inspectors, most of our graduates receive 2 to 5 job offers. Many can select the region where they most want to live.
While NHLA cannot guarantee placement, we do maintain a job listing board and set aside at least one day of the training for our members to conduct on-site interviews. NHLA Inspector Training School job placement and graduation data is available on the Tennessee Higher Education Commission website at www.state.tn.us/thec
Curriculum
The 14-week curriculum teaches NHLA grading rules and gives students hands-on practical experience at our 10,000 square foot grading facility.
Instructors are skilled inspectors with over 50 years experience in the hardwood lumber industry. Each class is limited to 70 students to ensure quality instruction and personal attention.
Classes generally begin the first of January and September. Upon successful completion, students receive a diploma in a formal graduation ceremony.
Admission
Prior experience in the lumber industry is not necessary. Minimum admission requirements are:
- High school diploma or foreign equivalent
- Ability to speak, write and understand English language
- Understanding of basic math principles
Tuition
Tuition for the 14-week school is $1,500 and supplies are approximately an
additional $100. The school is officially approved by the Veteran’s Administration for student aid under the GI Bill. For complete information about fees and refunds, see the
Inspector Training School Brochure.
To download the 2010 application, click here.
To download the 2011 application, click here.
To download School Catalog, click here.
HOUSING
Students attending the Inspector Training School are housed together at Studio Plus, an all-suite extended stay hotel located near the school.
NHLA has arranged a preferred rate agreement with Studio Plus for a queen studio suite. Accommodations must be paid in advance in 30 day increments at a rate of $849* plus tax monthly to receive the discounted rate. Payments are nonrefundable.
The preferred nightly rate is $34.99 + tax for extra nights outside of 30 day increments.
*Stays over 90 days do not pay hotel tax and qualify for a hotel tax refund once day 91 is reached.
For more information about Studio Plus, click here.
For reservations, call 1-800-398-7829. To receive the preferred rate, students must call the hotel and mention the NHLA Inspector Training School.
Tennessee Higher Education Commission
NHLA Inspector Training School is authorized for operation as a post secondary education institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the program offered by NHLA Inspector Training School, please visit www.state.tn.us/thec and click on the Authorized Institutions Data button.
Click here to view the Transferability of Credit Statement.
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