Navigating Uncertainty: WCMA’s Path Forward in 2026

Written by Jeremy McClain, WCMA President

Most of us remember the opening line of A Tale of Two Cities: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.” I can’t think of a better way to frame the current state of our industry. We’re living in a moment of real uncertainty—one where opposing truths can exist at the same time.

As 2025 gives way to 2026, whether we feel optimistic or pessimistic about the year ahead is largely shaped by where we sit in the industry and how we’ve been helped—or hurt—by forces that often feel beyond our control. International trade, demand shifts, and supply chain volatility continue to play an outsized role in shaping outcomes.

Those forces are cutting both ways. Some companies are running hot and expect that momentum to carry into 2026. Others are running cold and hoping that headwinds will finally turn into tailwinds. I recently read an article that described industry sentiment as “cautiously optimistic,” which to me feels like another way of saying “hopeful.” Hope has its place, but what most of us really want is clarity—and that’s something still in short supply.

Over the past year, WCMA made some meaningful pivots that I expect will be beneficial in 2026. Moving our Annual Conference & Plant Tour event to the spring eased crowded fall schedules, and repeating the single-day Spotlight Tour in 2025 added another clear must-attend event to our calendar. I have every reason to believe that those who join us in Green Bay, Wisconsin, in May 2026 will be glad they did. The conference is something we can look forward to regardless of uncertainties within the industry. Although there may not be much more clarity by then, I hope that won’t prevent us from getting together, asking questions, and trying to get each other’s perspectives.

At the same time, WCMA membership continues to deliver real value. Beyond the signature plant tour events, members benefit from the power of networking—connecting with peers, suppliers, and partners who share insights and solutions that help us all move forward. In 2026, WCMA is planning expanded access to education through a series of webinars hosted by members, tech partners, and industry colleagues, ensuring that knowledge and expertise are available year-round.

We’re also proud to represent our members at IWF2026 in August, where WCMA will continue to elevate the voice of it’s members and the wood components industry. In conjunction with IWF this year, we’ll release a new WCMA Buyer’s Guide, a resource designed to strengthen connections between manufacturers, suppliers, and customers.

In uncertain times, these touchpoints—events, representation, education, and networking—are what make WCMA membership so valuable. They provide clarity where there is confusion, community where there is isolation, and opportunity where there is challenge.

As we step into 2026, I encourage you to stay engaged, renew your membership, and take full advantage of the resources WCMA offers. Together, we can navigate uncertainty and find our path forward.

Learn more about WoodTech Connect 2026 scheduled for May 12-14 in Green Bay, WI
Learn more about WCMA Membership
Renew your WCMA Membership