COLORADO SPRINGS -- Another pandemic year, another year of solid growth for the FDMC 300. The woodworking industry’s top 300 firms grew by 7.9% in 2021.  Smaller firms prospered in 2021 as well. The Cabinet Makers Association reports that after surviving 2020, its members thrived in 2021. Yet, as the first quarter of 2022 winds down, the challenges and opportunities ahead remain unchartered territory for the woodworking industry.

Woodworking Network’s Executive Briefing Conference will once again explore topics vital to woodworking’s leaders in 2022: supply chain disruption, leadership and workforce development, and keeping abreast of new technologies and other trending innovations. EBC 2022 will return to the awe-inspiring Broadmoor in Colorado Springs September 15-17. The event consists of two and a half days of programming devoted to education, workshops, networking, and tours.

EBC 2022 will again feature case studies of successful, leading-edge woodworking companies. The first Case Study will feature an interview with Luke Elias, president of Muskoka Cabinet Co. in Ottawa, Canada. The 70-employee, 18,600 sq. ft. facility is a showcase of advanced technology and Industry 4.0.  “We call ourselves a high-tech company that makes kitchens,” said Elias. Among the recent additions to the company’s lineup are an RFID robotic panel processing cell and an RFID-enabled finishing line.

Another Case Study is an interview with Jimmy and Michael Thornberry, Powell Valley Millwork.  Powell is a large volume manufacturer of poplar products including primed interior trim, S4S boards, jambs, plantation shutter components, picture frame mouldings, stretcher bars, and moulder blanks servicing customers in truckload quantities or LTL shipments across North America.

Networking at EBC
Networking is an EBC mainstay. Past attendees have developed new and valuable contacts as they take in EBC’s robust agenda including roundtables, receptions, tours, and breakout sessions. Besides breaks and meals, EBC’s networking is highlighted by Woodworking Network’s audience recognition reception honoring Woodworking Network’s 40 under 40, the WOOD 100, Women of Woodworking, Market Leaders, and the FDMC 300.

Tours
EBC attendees will tour nearby woodworking facilities, to be announced. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the MiLL National Training Center, a 46,000-square-foot facility that focuses on lean manufacturing and uses the latest woodworking technology to develop work-ready employees for the industry.

About The Broadmoor
The Broadmoor welcomes guests to a legendary Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort with impeccable service and distinctive amenities. Here, the spirit of the West inspires the adventurer within, providing endless opportunities to explore the picturesque mountains, streams, and canyons that have inspired generations. Whether you are interested in zip lining adventures and horseback riding, Colorado fly fishing, or an indulgent day at the spa, you’ll find endless activities for every age in every season.

Stiles Machinery, Blum, Inc., Weima America, and Innergy are returning EBC sponsors.

See the preliminary EBC 2022 agenda.

About the Executive Briefing Conference
Since 2002, the EBC has been the premier venue for key manufacturers to network and explore new ways to succeed. By providing strategic and practical information that addresses manufacturing challenges, the EBC provides a unique forum to find out about new technologies and methods, and discover opportunities in a non-commercial environment. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Harry Urban at 708-373-4344, [email protected].

More upcoming Woodworking Network events
Wood Pro Expo Lancaster, Oct. 13-14, 2022, Spooky Nook Sports Center/Warehouse at the Nook, Manheim, Pa.

Salon Industriel du Bois Ouvré (SIBO), Oct. 27-29, 2022, Centrexpo Cogeco, Drummondville, Quebec.

Wood Machinery & Supply Conference & Expo (WMS), Nov. 2-4, 2023, International Centre, Mississauga, Ontario.

Closets Conference & Expo co-located with Wood Pro Expo Florida, April 12-14, 2023, Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach, Fla.