Boise Cascade shared additional details regarding its previously announced $140-million investments in its Alabama and Louisiana facilities. The upgrades will support the company’s EWP growth strategy.

• Chapman, Ala.: An existing plywood line will be converted into a parallel laminated veneer (PLV) line. The new PLV panels will be used to make Versa-Lam LVL and flanges for BCI Joists.
• Thorsby, Ala.: The facility is getting new BCI Joist line production capabilities. The new line is expected to be operational in early 2026.
• Oakdale, La.: The investment will expand veneer production. A $75-million investment is underway to enhance reliable veneer production through equipment refurbishment and replacement.

Timberlab confirmed its collaboration with Italian manufacturer SCM, for the supply of innovative technologies to Timberlab’s new CLT plant in Millersburg, Ore.

SCM will supply a CELASCHI XL profiling machine and double-end tenoner that will ensure the processing of panels more than 18 m long, at a rate of one every 15 minutes; and an AREA XL 5-axis CNC machining center with a mobile gantry structure and pendulum processing, developed specifically for the industrial production of large format CLT panels (up to 60 ft. x 11.5 ft).

With these two solutions, Timberlab expects to be able to achieve top-level processing efficiency and precision for a plant that promises to be one of North America’s largest in the industry, with an output of 100,000 m3 of CLT panels.

The partnership between Timberlab and SCM does not start with this new project. Since 2023 the U.S. company has had 6-axis OIKOS X and OIKOS XL CNC machining centers for the production of large format glulam beams and columns.

Jeffrey Tuma, Manufacturing Executive at Timberlab, comments, “SCM’s willingness to try new things and solve for cost effective solutions to enhance safety and quality in our production process is greatly appreciated. The entire team at SCM has been great to work with in our journey to manufacturing excellence in mass timber.”

Mid-South Engineering recently bid a happy retirement to President Marc Stewart after 27 years with the company. “Leaving my daily interactions with this team leaves a Mid-South-logo-shaped hole in my heart,” Stewart comments.

“While we’re sad to say goodbye, we wish Marc all the best in the next phase of his life,” the company stated.

Assuming the role of President is Chris Brown, who has been with the company for 28 years, most recently as vice president. Devoting his entire career to the building products industry, his vast project and process knowledge will allow him to support project execution in its entirety.

John Westerman becomes Vice President in Brown’s place. Westerman has served as project engineer, project manager, and more recently as Group Manager of Solid Wood Projects.

Con-Vey is planning an expansion of its operations with the acquisition of approximately 15 additional acres, including 150,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space. Strategically located with both highway and freeway access, and just 6.3 miles from Con-Vey’s headquarters, this new facility strengthens the company’s commitment to long-term growth in Roseburg, Ore. This space will provide the company with increased flexibility and operational capacity.

“We’re excited about the opportunity that this acquisition gives us for growth and diversification,” says Dave Larecy, CEO & President of Con-Vey, who spearheaded the purchase. “This expansion allows us to continue building on our legacy of innovation while increasing our manufacturing capacity.”

The facility, formerly occupied by Orenco Composites, was officially acquired on January 22, 2025. Over the coming months, Con-Vey will begin relocating select personnel into the office and manufacturing spaces, ramping up operations to accommodate increased demand. Initially, the facility will focus on the assembly and testing of automated equipment, with plans to further expand manufacturing capabilities in the future.

As part of this expansion, Con-Vey is planning to grow its workforce by hiring additional employees at the new facility.

After 40 remarkable years in the timber industry, Buddy Douglas has officially retired as Plant Manager of Scotch Plywood. “Over his career, Buddy exemplified dedication, leadership and resilience, especially in the face of challenges like the devastating fire in 2021. His commitment to rebuilding and supporting our employees during that time was a testament to his character,” according to a statement from Scotch Plywood, referring to the fire at the facility in Waynesboro, Miss. and the ensuing rebuild and startup.

Douglas joined Scotch Plywood in 1994 and became Plant Manager in 2008. He always credited the outstanding team around him, saying, “I have had so many people who have made my job easier. They are dedicated folks, and I give them all the credit.” 

“His humility, passion and vision have left an indelible mark on our company and community,” the company stated. “Thank you, Buddy, for everything you’ve done for Scotch Plywood and the timber industry. Wishing you a well-deserved, fulfilling retirement!”

As Douglas steps into retirement, he looks forward to working on his 850+ acres of land and traveling with his wife, Mary. 

Scotch Plywood, headquartered in Fulton, Ala., named Nathan Ferguson as the new Plant Manager.