OOLTEWAH, Tenn. — Mountain View Cabinets & Closets has hired Erin Kessler as its senior project manager. Ms. Kessler will oversee Mountain View’s client relations specific to production and installation, communications, scheduling, and internal systems management.

The event, the largest and longest-running hardwood industry gathering in North America, annually draws thousands of sawmill owners, lumber buyers, manufacturers, suppliers, and wood product professionals.

Researchers at the University of Osaka have developed a highly transparent material made entirely from natural wood without adding plastic and uncovered why some wood becomes clearer than others.

Southern Parallel Forest Products Corp., a subsidiary of Parallel Lumber Group, is closing its lumber plant in Albertville, Alabama, nearly three years after a shuttered lumber facility was reopened by Southern Parallel Forest Products.

The transition reinforces the company's commitment to U.S.-based production while expanding partnerships serving high-end resorts, boutique hospitality projects, and premium residential developments nationwide. The company will preserve its legaFcy of handcrafted hickory furniture while expanding capabilities in custom case goods, millwork, and large-scale project installations for hospitality and design-build partners.

Nominations are open through May 11 for Woodworking Network’s 11th annual Wood Industry 40 Under 40, which celebrates the next generation of industry professionals who are making an impact on wood products manufacturing in North America.

The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association released its February 2026 Monthly Confidence Index for the Equipment Finance Industry, revealing confidence in the equipment finance market rose to 67.6, up from 64.6 in January, and the highest level since January 2025. The index provides a qualitative assessment from key executives in the $1.3 trillion equipment finance industry.

Based in New York City and Toronto, Canada, Eventscape specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of high-design, complex architectural features for multiple applications including ceilings, feature walls and facades.

WalzCraft, a manufacturer of custom cabinet components, will exhibit at the Wood Pro Expo and Closets Conference, June 30 - July 2 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Visit booth #532.

Stiles Machinery has opened registration for its Spring Manufacturing Solutions Seminar (MSS), taking place April 1–2, 2026, at its High Point, North Carolina facility. The two-day event will bring together manufacturers, business owners, and other industry professionals from across North America to explore the latest advancements in automation, production efficiency, and integrated manufacturing technology.