WTC2026: Three Days of Insight, Innovation, and Industry Connection

Day 1: Welcome Reception at The Alley

The event kicked off on May 11 with a lively Welcome Reception at The Alley inside Hotel Northland. The venue’s relaxed, social atmosphere set the perfect tone for the days ahead, giving attendees space to reconnect with longtime colleagues, greet new members, and ease into the event with genuine enthusiasm.

Bowling lanes, billiards tables, and plenty of appetizers kept the energy high as conversations sparked across the room. The mix of casual fun and professional camaraderie created an immediate sense of community — momentum that carried through the entire three‑day program.

Stop #1 — KI–Bonduel
The day opened at KI’s Bonduel facility, where the employee‑owned company demonstrated why it is a leader in commercial‑grade furnishings for schools, public venues, and workplaces. Attendees observed production of table tops, workbenches, stools, powder‑coating operations, edge‑banding, and more. KI’s commitment to quality, people‑centered values, and responsible manufacturing was evident at every turn.

Stop #2 — Cruiser Yachts, Pulaski
Next, the group traveled to Cruiser Yachts for an impressive behind‑the‑scenes look at luxury boat manufacturing. From hull production and mechanical installations to their custom wood shop, attendees followed the build process all the way through final assembly — culminating in the chance to step aboard a $3 million yacht ready for delivery. The scale, precision, and craftsmanship on display made this stop a standout highlight.

Stop #3 — Valley Custom Door & Valley Cabinets, De Pere
The third stop brought attendees to WCMA member Valley Custom Door and Valley Cabinets, where owner Steve Mashl introduced the team and proudly unveiled their brand‑new facility — a project more than two years in the making. Designed with state‑of‑the‑art automation and a layout optimized for efficiency, the plant offered numerous takeaways for attendees, from workflow improvements to advanced equipment integration. Customer focus and market adaptability were discussed along with workforce incentives and engagement.

Stop #4 — Green Bay Packaging
The final stop of the day took the group to Green Bay Packaging, where attendees toured both the Mill Plant and the Container Division. The sheer scale of the operations, combined with sophisticated automation and digital process controls, left a strong impression. GBP’s dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainability was evident throughout the tour.

WCMA Dinner & Evening Program

After a full day of tours, attendees gathered for the WCMA Dinner — an opportunity to sit down, relax, and unwind while reflecting on the day’s experiences. WCMA Executive Director Amy Snell opened the program with remarks highlighting the strength of the WCMA community and the value of bringing members together for hands‑on learning and collaboration.

Federated Insurance, the event’s Platinum Sponsor, also addressed the group, with Jack West offering a brief presentation underscoring the company’s long‑standing support of WCMA members.

The evening’s featured speaker, Dana Lee Cole, Executive Director of the Hardwood Federation, delivered a timely and compelling address. She provided an overview of the Federation’s advocacy work in Washington, D.C. and discussed key issues facing the hardwood industry today — including Farm Bill inclusion, tariffs, housing market volatility, and import/export regulations. Dana emphasized the importance of member engagement, encouraging attendees to support the Federation’s efforts, communicate with elected officials, and sign on to letters presented to lawmakers on behalf of the wood industry.

Day 3: Final Tours and Closing Insights

The final day of WoodTech Connect 2026 began with another early departure as attendees set out for three final plant tours — each offering a unique perspective on efficiency, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.

Stop #1 — Granite Valley Forest Products
Attendees observed rigorous quality‑control systems, kiln‑drying operations, and expansive warehousing at this high‑production hardwood facility. The Tally Vision system and extensive grading lines sparked thoughtful discussion about accuracy, throughput, and workforce optimization.

Stop #2 — Oshkosh Door Company
The group then toured Oshkosh Door Company’s production lines for solid‑core, fire‑rated, commercial, and fully customized doors. Attendees were impressed by the company’s strong emphasis on safety mechanisms, workforce incentives, and a plant layout shaped by years of intentional planning and steady growth.

Stop #3 — Elipticon Wood Products
The final stop brought attendees to WCMA member Elipticon Wood Products. President Joe Hanson welcomed the group with an engaging introduction, sharing the company’s history and its evolution into a 100% employee‑owned organization. The tour featured demonstrations of custom moulding production, glued components, paint and stain operations, and tooling — a fitting and memorable conclusion to the three‑day program.

Sponsor Appreciation

WoodTech Connect 2026 would not be possible without the generous support of our event sponsors. Their partnership helps WCMA deliver high‑quality programming, meaningful networking opportunities, and hands‑on learning experiences for our members.

We extend our sincere appreciation to:

• Höcker North America
• Stiles Machinery
• Osborne Wood Products
• Federated Insurance (Platinum Sponsor)

Their support enhances every aspect of the event and strengthens the WCMA community.

Looking Ahead: WoodTech Connect 2027

WCMA is already gearing up for WoodTech Connect 2027, which will take place in Indiana. Planning is underway, and our team has begun scouting potential tour sites that will offer members another exceptional, hands‑on look at innovation across the wood products industry.

More details — including dates, tour locations, and registration information — will be shared in early 2027.

Closing & What’s Next for WCMA

WoodTech Connect 2026 wrapped up with attendees energized by three days of learning, collaboration, and firsthand exposure to the innovation driving our industry forward. As we look ahead, WCMA has several opportunities for members to stay engaged:

• WCMA at IWF2026 in Atlanta
• Spotlight Plant Tour — Fall 2026
• WoodTech Connect 2027 in Indiana

Thank you to all who joined us in Green Bay — and to those who supported the event from afar. We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming WCMA program and continuing to strengthen the wood products industry together.