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Dakota Smith
Assistant Editor

Dakota is an assistant editor at Woodworking Network, avidly exploring the woodworking industry.

Event Coverage

Rhode Island School of Design highlights emerging designers at ICFF

Rhode Island School of Design will participate in the International Contemporary Furniture Fair + Wanted at the Jacob K. Javits Center during NYCxDESIGN 2026 from May 17–19 in New York, NY. This year, RISD’s Furniture Design department will present Intrinsic Values, a selection of works from BFA and MFA students that examine the role of furniture in contemporary life and the values that shape its creation.

Woodworking Industry News

Second cohort of AmericCorps NCCC Forest Corps volunteers graduate

Forest Corps is a partnership between AmeriCorps NCCC and the USDA Forest Service that invests in the next generation of forestry leaders and advancing a shared commitment to public service and stewardship. Volunteers serving in the program mobilize nationwide create firebreaks to reduce wildfire risks and executing controlled burns in forests, support reforestation efforts, and assist in active fire response.

Woodworking Industry News

Virginia governor creates Wood Council, aims to strengthen wood product businesses

Virginia Wood Council is a new advisory body focused on growing Virginia’s forestry industry, supporting loggers, and making sure Virginia’s forests remain strong into the future. The Council will also help the industry contend with the challenges created by federal tariffs and support business expansion into new markets. Wood manufacturers are encouraged to participate in the council.

Woodworking Industry News

Builders FirstSource appoints Alena Brenner to chief legal officer, EVP role

Builders FirstSource, Inc. announced the appointment of Alena Brenner as Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, reporting to CEO Peter Jackson. Brenner will lead all legal, risk management, government affairs, compliance, corporate social responsibility, and insurance functions for the Company. She will also serve as the primary legal advisor to the Builders FirstSource Board of Directors.