Celebrating Excellence at the NHLA Inspector Training School: NHLA Commemorates the Graduation of the 207th Inspector Training School Class

We’re thrilled to announce the graduation of the 207th class from the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) renowned Inspector Training School (ITS). The ceremony took place on November 1, 2024, at NHLA Headquarters in Memphis, TN, featuring inspiring speeches that celebrated the graduates’ achievements and the promising future of the hardwood industry.

NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert opened the event by congratulating the students on mastering in eight weeks what was once a six-month curriculum. He highlighted the evolving nature of the grading industry, stating, “The future looks great for what you’re stepping into.”

Mark Scholl, a Class 190 graduate and representative of East Perry Lumber Co., praised Class 207’s unique position in the industry. Despite smaller class sizes, he reminded graduates of the exciting opportunities ahead: “Y’all are positioned perfectly… that will serve you well in the future.”

NHLA ITS Instructor and Associate Dean Roman Matyushchenko then expressed gratitude to sponsors and staff, urging graduates to “never stop learning” and to stay connected by sharing their accomplishments: “We want to hear your success stories.”

Class President Benjamin Fly of Fly Tie & Lumber Company, Inc., acknowledged the changing landscape of the industry and celebrated his class’s resilience. “As we move forward in this industry… we are facing challenges that our grandfathers did not… Collectively, we will keep this industry strong and moving forward,” he affirmed.

The graduates of Class 207 are:
• Justin Lee Buenneneyer – Sponsored by John Boos
• Daniel Bustard – Sponsored by Middle Tennessee Lumber Co., Inc.
• Elisha Burr Coleman – Independent
• Benjamin Fly – Sponsored by Fly Tie & Lumber Co., Inc.
• Ken Lin – Sponsored by Robinson Lumber Co.
• Dustin Lee Lorenz – Sponsored by East Perry Lumber Co.
• Kirsten Vandenberg – Sponsored by Snowbelt Hardwoods

NHLA proudly recognizes the achievements of the 207th Class, along with the following award winners and scholarship recipient:
• Highest Overall Average: Dustin Lorenz – ITSEF Award: $250 check and plaque
• Second Highest Overall Average: Benjamin Fly – Howard Hanlon Award: $150 check and plaque
• Highest Board Run Average: Dustin Lorenz – Westside Hardwood Club Award: $75 check and plaque
• Best Attitude/Citizenship: Kirsten Vandenberg – Milt Cole Award: $100 check and plaque
• Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) Scholarship Recipient: Elisha Burr Coleman

We look forward to the contributions these talented graduates will bring to the hardwood industry. Congratulations to all!

SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION OF INDUSTRY LEADERS
The NHLA Inspector Training School Educational Foundation (ITSEF) is dedicated to providing scholarships and opportunities for aspiring professionals. Your contribution helps invest in the future of the hardwood industry. To learn more or make a donation, visit our ITSEF webpage.

Together, we can shape the future of the hardwood industry!