When it comes to new products, at IWF, Wilsonart is highlighting new surface introductions inspired by the beauty of natural wood for walls, doors, cabinets, and other interior products.

Two industry leaders — one a teacher, one a cabinet company, both focused on the future in their own ways — have been named winners of prestigious industry awards.

Along with standalone machines, at IWF Biesse is demonstrating two automated lines designed to simplify production and alleviate labor market shortages. The company says these solutions also are a direct response to the demand for smart automation in today’s manufacturing environment.

Owner Kevin McConnell started Oakridge in 1984 as a small shop specializing in the manufacture of wood windows and doors for new and remodeled homes.

Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in July for the fourth consecutive month and the 20th time in the last 21 months, says the nation's supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business.

Choice Machinery Group, a machinery manufacturer for the secondary wood products and panel laminating markets has acquired the assets of Forefront Control Systems, a provider of controls engineering, control panel building, and machine wiring services based in West Michigan.

Lines were winding at registration and bunched at booths, while young industry leaders were honored, challenge-solving technology was showcased and honored, and a full array of educational programming was kicked off with symposia on closets and organized solutions and a boot camp on CNC technology.

More woodworking companies and suppliers support SkillsUSA by supplying equipment, materials and supplies used in the competition. It underscores the growing support from the woodworking industry to help foster skilled trades education.

Woodworking Network's 2024 class of Wood Industry 40 Under 40 were honored at a special reception in Atlanta for their industry achievements.

Numerous beneficial qualities of plywood and the rising usage of furniture are expected to boost the market.