As an introduction course, students will learn wood anatomy and the physical nature of wood and how these characteristics are used in species selection for industrial raw materials. Species identification will be covered in the lab portion of this course.

Covers the process of drying wood. Drying lumber is studied in depth, focusing on the relationship between wood, temperature, relative humidity and air velocity. Learners will focus on moisture content measuring techniques, types of kilns and controls, how to generate kiln schedules and procedures for sampling, while operating a conventional steam kiln, dehumidification kiln, and vacuum kiln.

Establishes the breakdown of logs into veneers, panels and wood composites. Learners identify and explore the basic breakdown processes, uses of these different material types, and their various applications in the woods and manufacturing industries.

Explores the general overview of plant layout, machine centers, and different product flow in a lumber manufacturing setting.  Learners focus on the mix of species, and how these can be utilized in various product lines, and examine the processing of lumber through sawing, edging, and trimming manufacturing operations.

Expands of the skills previously introduced through the use of more advanced standard grade classifications and methods.  Learners build additional experience in the grading of hardwood lumber and logs and enhance their merchandising knowledge and understanding with emphasis on hands-on exercises and techniques.

Expands of the skills previously introduced through the use of more advanced standard grade classifications and methods.  Learners build additional experience in the grading of hardwood lumber and logs and enhance their merchandising knowledge and understanding with emphasis on hands-on exercises and techniques.