June 5, 2024 | Warren Shoulberg
The National Woods Board and the Woodwork Career Alliance of North America have announced a strategic partnership to advance the woodworking field.
The NWB and WCA collaboration is aimed at promoting careers in the field through coordinated educational and awareness efforts over the next five years. The WCA said the partnership will work to coordinate educational efforts with industry standards, promote career opportunities and develop talent within the field, as well as raise the visibility of woodworking in schools and throughout the industry.
The collaboration is kicking off with a pilot program that will allow high school woodworking instructors around the country to try out the NWB’s Foundations in Woods Manufacturing 1 curriculum that incorporates the WCA skill standards and credentialing system, in their programs this fall.
“I am excited to officially launch our partnership with Woodwork Career Alliance,” said Thomas Allott, chairman of the NWB. “Our education system needs a structured education and credentialing system that is built by industry to give students the opportunity to make a career in wood product manufacturing, and this partnership helps fill that need.”
“Our partnership with the National Woods Board represents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen the woodworking workforce and elevate industry standards,” said Scott Nelson, president of the WCA. “Together, we will provide the next generation of woodworkers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. By pooling our expertise and resources, we can address the challenges facing our industry and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.”
Added Allott, “This partnership will empower suppliers, manufacturers and educators to help build the next generation of educated, competent, and confident employees.”
International Woodworking Fair
Tuesday–Friday
August 25–28, 2026
Georgia World Congress Center
285 Andrew Young International Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30313