Forest Products Society Wood Products Convention to cover technology advances, market opportunities
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 PORTLAND, Ore. - Scientists from universities around the globe and researchers share the latest advances in wood processing, bio-mass, nanotechnology, adhesives, and composites at global forum of the forest products community at the Forest Products Society 70th International Convention on June 27-29, 2016 in Portland, Oregon.
 
Wood remains one of the most important renewable resources that contribute to the social, economic, and environmental sustainability of our planet. 
 
“A staple gathering for hundreds of scientists, design professionals, managers, decision makers, and others from academia, government, nonprofit, and private industry sectors, the annual FPS Convention challenges participants to share their latest ideas, research, philosophy, and technology, while removing the boundaries between industry sectors and promoting the cross-pollination of knowledge,” says Maureen Puettmann, FPS President. “The event is an astounding opportunity to become exposed to the wide range of timely forest products issues facing the industry worldwide.”
 
The FPS Convention’s theme is reflected in the line-up of speakers, presentations and on-site activities, which will feature oral talks, 50+ poster presentation plus a bonus day of fields trips and networking, covering a variety of important topics, including:
 
  • Advances in the Mass Timber Multistory Industry;
  • Biomass and Biofuels: Innovations;
  • Opportunities and Challenges in the Forest Products Industry;
  • Wood Properties - Quality and Mechanical;
  • Composite Materials: Reinventing Plywood/Veneer Markets;
  • Innovations in Non-Traditional Bio-products
  • Advances in Adhesion
  • Wood Modification: Improvements in Durability
Among the many presenters are Oregon State Treasurer Ted Wheeler and Professor and Head of the Department of Forest Biomaterials at North Carolina State University and President of CORRIM Dr. Steve Kelley. Wheeler has promoted environmental stewardship as State Treasurer by committing to increasing Oregon’s investments in renewable energy resources, while Dr. Kelley, has dedicated his research to the sustainable production of energy and materials from biomass, and life cycle analysis of wood products and energy systems.
 
The FPS Convention is also an important event for students as “it creates a platform for individuals at early stages of their professional life to forge lasting relationships,” adds Puettman. FPS student leaders have been working on a great program just for students beginning Sunday with trip to Multnomah Falls followed by the student Wood Bowl where student teams face off with their best knowledge of WOOD. In addition, on Monday the Convention will have a special oral session for students to briefly present their research, followed by the student poster competition.
 
Nian Ou of Huber Engineered Woods LLC, reflecting on the 2015 Convention attendance, said: “our team found the educational sessions and networking opportunities to be very beneficial. It is important for industry professionals and researchers to come together to facilitate innovation for the future of the forest products industry. The FPS Convention does just that.”
 
In addition, this year’s program includes an Excellence Awards Luncheon in which leaders in the industry will be recognized for their achievements and contributions to the Society and the industry.
 
“There is plenty of opportunity to network during the Welcome Reception, Session Breaks, Student Luncheon, and the infamous Paul Bunyan Party. We look forward to welcoming our current members and others in the industry who represent all segments of the forest products industry and keep our industry moving forward and changing the world we live in,” summarizes Puettman.
 
The Convention is also attracting a number of partners and sponsors, which already include: Western Wood Products Association, Hexion, Timber Products Inspection, Louisiana Forest Products Development Center/School of Renewable Natural Resources/Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, The Engineered Wood Association, TAPPI, Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau, American Wood Council and the Southern Forest Products Association.
 
For more information about the Convention, registration and sponsorship opportunities, please visit fpsconvention.org.
 
 

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About the author
Bill Esler | ConfSenior Editor

Bill wrote for WoodworkingNetwork.com, FDMC and Closets & Organized Storage magazines. 

Bill's background includes more than 10 years in print manufacturing management, followed by more than 30 years in business reporting on industrial manufacturing in the forest products industries, including printing and packaging at American Printer (Features Editor) and Graphic Arts Monthly (Editor in Chief) magazines; and in secondary wood manufacturing for WoodworkingNetwork.com.

Bill was deeply involved with the launches of the Woodworking Network Leadership Forum, and the 40 Under 40 Awards programs. He currently reports on technology and business trends and develops conference programs.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Bill supports efforts to expand and improve educational opportunities in the manufacturing sectors, including 10 years on the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation; six years with the U.S. WoodLinks; and currently on the Woodwork Career Alliance Education Committee. He is also supports the Greater West Town Training Partnership Woodworking Program, which has trained more than 950 adults for industrial wood manufacturing careers. 

Bill volunteers for Foinse Research Station, a biological field station staddling the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland, one of more than 200 members of the Organization of Biological Field Stations.