May 2026 Component Manufacturing Advertiser Magazine by Component Manufacturing Advertiser

Component manufaCturing

A dverti $ er

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry

NEW

INNOVATION FOR TRADE STORES & FABRICATION PLANTS

Slowly gathering and organizing loose lumber manually is now a thing of the past. Stand-alone automated picking is here!

With a compact footprint and newly developed software, Vekta’s fully customizable PickFeeder system is built to fit your needs

It intelligently scans, selects, and delivers lumber to the stack at lightning speed – eliminating downtime, fatigue, and costly errors.

You can even combine multiple PackFeeders into your PickFeeder system to increase volume or range of product.

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Anna Stamm – Advertiser Forum: Watching Artemis II

Joe Kannapell: Home Building Technology, Part XVI: Roller Equipment Alternatives

Glenn Traylor: Do You Understand Deflection and Deflection Differential?

Wendy Boyd – Spida Machinery: From Blade to Data: Can Cutting Become a Measurable, Optimized System?

Jeff Vance – MiTek: Drag Trusses: The Hidden Component of Lateral Systems

Alpine Staff: Find Good People and Grow Old With Them

Ed Lim – LimTek Solutions: Dump and Chase is Just-in-Time

ROGworx Team: Come Meet the ROGworx Badger

Todd Drummond Consulting, LLC: Profit Leaks Where Work Is Not Visible Enough to Control

Zach Hubbs – Paragon: Aligning Paragon’s Leadership for Growth

Garry Roehr – AMT Robotics: Take a HyperLeap with AMT Robotics

Jeff Haider – WB Components: Building Future Builders and Truss Designers

Thomas McAnally – TheJobLine: Who’s Ghosting Who?

Geordie Secord – Design Connections: Is Your Tribal Knowledge Retiring or Expiring?

Lesko Financial Services Team: Economic Factors in the Second Quarter

Doan Tran – Simpson Strong-Tie: Celebrating the Lunar New Year with Simpson Strong-Tie Viet Nam

Sean Shields – SBCA: An Industry Best Practice for Informing Installers

Joe Kannapell – The Last Word: John Houlihan’s Contributions

THE MOST TRUSSED NAME IN LUMBER

Why do so many manufacturers rely on West Fraser for mechanically graded lumber? With over 30 North American mills, 14 of which produce MSR, we run a highly dependable supply chain in both SYP and SPF.

Our ability to identify higher grade lumber imparts predictable strength and consistency to high-performing trusses and other products. Why not let our high production standards support yours?

Truss us – we won’t let you down.

A dverti $ er Component manufaCturing

Serving the Structural Building componentS induStry

New & Used Equipment

Saws

Truss Equipment

Panel Equipment

Trucks & Trailers

Misc. Equipment

Door | Stair | Window Equipment

Calendar of Events

Safety First

TheJobLine - Jobs & Candidates

Industry News

Inside

Published Monthly

Publisher Thomas McAnally twm@componentadvertiser.org

Editor Anna L. Stamm 800-289-5627 x 3 anna@componentadvertiser.org

Distributed FREE Via e-mail subscription Download PDF or Read on line at www.componentadvertiser.com

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An Open Forum for many sources.

Deadline 20th of each month. Articles, Trade Names, and Logos are the property of their respective owner or creator unless otherwise noted

Disclaimer: We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or material that we deem not in the interest of the industry or the Advertiser. Permission to use content is the responsibility of the contributor including permissions to use any likeness of persons.

36,37,67

West Fraser

Wolf X Machina

Wood Tech Systems

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The Advertiser is provided “As Is” including typographical errors, omissions, and mistakes both intentional and unintentional.

Believe it at your own risk!

Component Manufacturing Advertiser

The Advertiser 7586 Becks Grove Road Freetown, Indiana 47235 no reproduction in whole or in part without permission from the component manufacturing advertiser

Archive Copies Available On Line www.componentadvertiser.com

Anna L. Stamm Director of Communications and Marketing Component Manufacturing Advertiser.

Advertiser Forum

Watching Artemis II

Ishouldn’t admit I wasn’t excited by the Artemis II mission, even though the TV was telling me I should be. I was unable to escape the coverage though, and I ended up with a few takeaways I hadn’t expected.

Bridging Entertainment and Inspiration

Even though I wasn’t enthralled, I became impressed that so many people genuinely were impressed! It turns out that the hype was real, and many of my friends were talking about watching the coverage and tracking the milestones. Who knew? My takeaway: maybe we aren’t all as jaded as we sometimes feel.

Fostering Imagination and Innovation

While watching an evening news broadcast, I saw an interview with the crew soon after they landed. I hadn’t sought it out, but I was glad I heard it. The excitement and joy they experienced was readily apparent. My takeaway: watching others fulfill their dreams can remind us of our own childhood innocence and aspirations.

Camaraderie and Comedy

That day was also when the floating Nutella jar was trending, so the crew was asked: whose spread was that? Their answer was simple: it was ours. They did not single out one person, nor did anyone exclaim, “not mine.” Instead, the interviewer himself remarked on how they took ownership as a team. My takeaway: the most successful projects are always those accomplished through camaraderie and commitment. Plus, being able to laugh about something is nice too.

Next up, Artemis III is planning a lunar landing. Will I be watching? Maybe. Will you?

“Capturing the Details of the Moon and the Beauty of Earth – (April 6, 2026) As the Artemis II crew came close to passing behind the Moon and experiencing a planned loss of signal, they captured this image of a crescent Earth. Seen from afar, it almost looks like a circular arc – except when backlit, as in other images captured by the Artemis II crew. Earth is in a crescent phase, with sunlight coming from the right. The dark portion of Earth is experiencing nighttime. On Earth’s day side, swirling clouds are visible over muted blue in the Australia and Oceania region. Credit: NASA”

YOUR COMPLETE PARTNER FOR HIGHER PROFITABILITY

Rising labor and time pressures demand solutions that reduce rework and keep projects moving. Accurate estimates, code-compliant structural systems, and connected modeling and takeoff services work best when they work together.

That’s the MiTek advantage—helping you streamline operations, create consistency at scale, and support better, faster, safer builds.

Monet DeSauw FWA 500 Floor Web Cutter

• Push Button Powered Blade Angulations

• Single Push Button Setting for 2 Blades per Side

• Electronic Digital Readouts

• Backup Mechanical Indicators

• Cuts 4 Angle Webs, Cantilever Webs (2 piece webs) & Square Blocks

• Magazine Lumber Feed for 3x2, 4x2 and 6x2 Lumber 12 1/2” to 48 1/2” Length Capacity (7” Minimum on Square Blocks)

• 60 Pieces per Minute

• (4) Internal 16” Blades & (1) External 16” Cut-Off Blade

• Pneumatic Blade Brake on External Blade

• Dust Hoods

• Belt Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Add $4,300 for 12’ Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Add $2,100 for Extra Set of Blades

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase FOBMO Call For Pricing

• Automated (Truss Design Software Download) or SemiAutomated (Touch Screen Entry) Operation

• All Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• 22” x 40 Tooth Blade on PAE Cut 1 or 2 Boards up to 20’ (2 Second Plunge Cut)

• Cut Chords, Webs, Rafters, Wedges & Stair Stringers

• Cut Long Scarfs by MultiPlunging

• Servo Positioning on Infeed, Angle & Outfeed Pusher

• Over Travel Protection

• Ink Jet Printer

• Lumber Optimization Program

• Belt Waste Conveyor

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase / 60 Amp

• Includes 5 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Optional Monet DeSauw Live Deck, Bunk Feeder & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor FOB MO Call For Pricing

• Touch Screen User Interface with Backup Mechanical Controls

• 3 Operating Modes: Auto, SemiAuto & Manual

• All 20 Axes of Movements are Computer & PLC Controlled

• Comprehensive Setup Screens Display Each Piece with Setup Data

• Anti-Collision & Optimizing Programming

• Auto Calibration Productivity & Time Tracking

• Maintenance Diagnostics

• Variable Speed Conveyor (0-50 Flights per Minute)with Powered Hold Downs

• (1) 30” x 80 Tooth Blade (27 3/4” Scarf on PAE)

• (4) 16” x 40 Tooth Blades (13 1/2” Scarf on Centerline)

• Pneumatic Blade Brakes on all 5 Blades

• 16 1/2” to 20’ Length Capacity (11” Minimum on Square End Blocks)

• Vibrating Waste Conveyor Under Saw

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Includes 4 Day Onsite Installation & Training

• Add $2,900 for Extra Set of Blades

• Optional Live Deck, Label Printer, Ink Jet Printer, Catcher Display & Incline Belt Waste Conveyor.

Monet DeSauw DeRobo Linear Saw

Monet DeSauw DeSawyer 2000 Automated Saw

By Joe Kannapell

Home Building Technology, Part XVI: Roller Equipment Alternatives

It’s about time that a serious contender challenges the dominance of the roller gantry. Its life has been extended with lasers and auto-puck systems, but no upgrade so far has taken the hammer out of the hands of assemblers, its greatest drawback. The only alternative, the vertical press, had been dismissed as too slow, but now it has returned to relevance via robotics. Although we were given a preview of how a press could be automated 20 years ago, three recent systems have taken that technology to new levels and are worth contrasting.

Surprisingly, the first automated assembly system was built by Jim Urmson, leveraging his leading-edge linear saw’s success. His client, ProBuild, with the backing of a financial powerhouse, was proving the viability of his TCT robotics in delivering lumber, assembling truss members, stapling joints, and retrieving and pressing connector plates. Of his many advancements, one of the least appreciated was his method of building trusses on the fly, which minimized the assembly area’s footprint. While Urmson’s promising work was put on hold by the Great Recession, several of the features he pioneered have become part of more recently introduced systems.

In 2017, True House installed the next roller gantry alternative, Randek’s AutoEye system, which both simplified and enhanced Urmson’s methodology. In their implementation, Randek replaced robotic assembly with workers fastening truss parts together with corrugated fasteners on an auto-jigging table. What distinguishes the Randek system is the vision technology that locates truss joints, moves the pressing platten to each of them in sequence, and rotates the platten as necessary to maintain the proper plate orientation. Two additional AutoEye Systems have since been installed in Canada.

While both the TCT and the Randek system plate the truss with a press suspended from a steel beam, the Trussmatic system, installed by Menards in 2020, plates the truss with C-clamps functioning as robotic endof-arm tools, after the truss parts are robotically assembled on a wall instead of a table. What is notable about Trussmatic is how web members are impaled upon protruding spikes on the assembly wall, to maintain their precise orientation and their proper abutment with adjacent members. When all webs are secured in place, chords are clamped tightly against them. Upon the successful implementation of Trussmatic, Menards has become an equity partner and now has installed 13 systems in their own plants. Soon, a Canadian plant near Toronto will be installing a Trussmatic system.

The most recent robotic installations combine vertical pressing of plates with conventional roller gantry embedment, supplied by House of Design (HoD) beginning in 2021. As with each of the above robotic systems, pairs of plates are retrieved robotically from magazines. What distinguishes the HoD system is the automated pre-plating of truss members with a vertical press before they reach the jig table, eliminating placement errors and over-plating. Although HoD went out of business two years ago, its technology is still being enhanced (for more information, see my Truss Tales post, “What Can We Learn from the Demise of House of Design?”).

One of the most promising HoD enhancements was underway in a Builders FirstSource plant in Texas that planned to automatically feed cut parts from saws into the pre-plating station. However, what was not addressed by HoD was properly securing web members, because they are set precariously upon the teeth of connector plates and sometimes require manual adjustment before hammering by an operator.

Other enhancements of HoD technology have been forthcoming from Sawtooth Robotics LLC, formed in July 2024 by HoD veterans Oscar Williamson and Chad Svedin. At BCMC 2025, they exhibited their Next-Gen PrePlater. They have also pioneered the use of wide-belt conveyors at The Truss Company for delivery of pre-plated parts, in lieu of robotics. This belt system delivers all pieces of a given truss in a single batch, thereby eliminating the need for sorting and sequencing saw output, which also precludes the separate handling and delivery of short pieces. To fasten the short pieces, assemblers can maintain a small stock of connector plates at their workstation and rely on an overhead video display to guide setup.

While these systems have not gained great traction, they are advancing the state of the art in several ways. Their stand-alone automated plate retrieval systems are now offered by two vendors. The 20 robotic systems currently building trusses are providing valuable data and insights. Their progress is also spurring other entities to work on further advances in truss assembly technology.

The most compelling rationale for these alternatives to the roller gantry is that the gantry does not embed plates completely and requires two additional processes: extended conveyance and a second pass through a finish roller. This runs contrary to the “do it right the first time” approach advocated by businessman and quality expert Philip B. Crosby in his 1979 book, Quality is Free: The Art of Making Quality Certain. Fundamental to that approach is the inefficiency of spending time fixing, checking, and redoing work. Clearly, the HoD system requires redoing the plating and sometimes the re-jigging of joints. Randek’s AutoEye requires stapling the truss together and then re-securing joints (reworking them) downstream with truss plates. Only the Trussmatic system does it right the first time in this regard.

Another, though largely unheralded, case can be made that the gripping strength and the field performance of vertically pressed plates consistently exceed that of roller-applied plates, even without accounting for damage done by hammering. But, whether the vertical press resurgence and demonstration of its benefits will lead to it overtaking the roller gantry remains to be seen.

Software. Equipment. Hardware. Service.

Transform your truss operation with an integrated solution from Simpson Strong-Tie. The industry leader in truss plates now brings you a full suite of software, equipment, hardware and services to drive truss component manufacturing from idea to installation. Start with CS Director™, CS Truss Studio™, CS EWP Studio ™ and CS Producer™ for design, layout, production and project management. Use our powerful Monet DeSauw industrial saws to cut webs, chords, stair stringers, rafters and wedges with speed and precision. Specify the optimal connectors, anchors and Strong-Drive ® structural fasteners for every project. You can also complement your team with our professional truss design services at any time. Altogether, you have a smart solution made to increase productivity, ensure high quality and take your business to the next level.

To learn more, contact

Sub Component Nailer

– Bill McAlpine, Co-founder of Alpine

In 1966, we designed 200 trusses for three customers. Since then, our team has helped build millions of homes in North America through high-quality component manufacturing.

A lot has changed in 60 years, but our commitment to partnership has always been at the core of what we do.

At Alpine, our team fosters lasting relationships with customers and collaborates on solutions. Our industry innovations have been driven by challenges we’ve seen component manufacturers face. We truly want to see everyone succeed.

Like the plaque in our Orlando office reads, “Find good people and grow old with them.” So here’s to six decades of innovative, solution-forward component manufacturing—all thanks to our team members and customers who made it possible.

A truss plant isn’t just about square footage. It’s about efficiency, safety, and flow.

CT Darnell Construction’s design-build approach delivers:

• Facilities tailored to your operation and equipment

• Smarter layouts for safer load-ins and faster turns

• Integrated storage and optimized SKU management

With nearly 40 years of LBM experience and more than 4,500 completed projects, we build turnkey truss facilities designed to perform from day one.

The truss industry relies on 3rd party quality assurance services to provide random visits to review the plants Quality Assurance program along with their operations. If your plant needs to comply with the IRC, IBC and to those who depend on solid, experienced QA expertise, we ask you to consider selecting Timber Products Inspection, Inc. (TP) as your choice for 3rd party inspections.

Proudly serving the forest products industry for over 50 years, TP brings the expertise you need to ensure your business is successful. As a responsible partner, TP delivers to clients, employees, and the industries we serve the confidence to drive value through the effective use of our diverse professional team.

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry!

• Al Coffman

• Jean Hart • Curt Holler • Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor • Elliot Wilson

If you have questions about how you can make this selection, please contact your authorized agent above or Glenn Traylor at 919-280-5905 or trusguy@gmail.com. https://www.tpinspection.com/ https://www.tpinspection.com/auditing-services/truss

By Glenn Traylor

Do You Understand Deflection and Deflection Differential?

Do you understand deflection and deflection differential — and how your truss systems and, more importantly, your clients’ perceptions will be affected? Deflection has been around for an exceptionally long time and always needs to be considered and addressed. To do so, however, we need some understanding as to why deflection causes a problem, and we need to understand that deflection is always going to be a metric involved in any design.

Probably the most common after-delivery problem a component fabricator encounters is a customer complaint that is either directly or indirectly related to deflection. Most often, this is related to floors, but other instances occur too, in particular with attic trusses. It’s very important to keep in mind this adage: “The customer’s perception is the primary measure of performance.” However, this perspective often does not consider the actual conditions within the floor system. Frequently, complaints may arise that are not based on comprehensive or accurate information.

Deflection Facts to Consider

1. Deflection cannot be prevented.

2. Deflection is not always caused by the component itself but is a factor in the overall system.

3. Deflection is not a problem if the design can accommodate for that deflection — see my article from July 2024, “What is Camber and Why is It Important?”

4. Deflection issues can be mitigated by adjusting the truss configuration — see my July 2019 article, “Compression or Tension Web

Configuration–Which is Better?”

5. Utilizing camber, deflection can be reduced. This needs to be incorporated into the actual assembly of the component.

6. The longer the member, the more the deflection is going to be (see figure).

7. Deflection tolerance is dependent on the type and class of the structure.

8. Deflection issues contribute to “Truss Partition Separation” and this phenomenon is often attributed (sometimes incorrectly) to problems with deflection — see “The Enduring Problem of Truss Partition Separation” by Frank Woeste, P.E. from November 2020.

9. Deflection issues can be a result of less effective drywall installation techniques that ignore the need for movement.

10. Deflection issues can sometimes be a result of improper loading calculations — see “Errors in Substituting Dead Load for Live Load in Wood Design” by Scott Coffman, P.E., October 2018.

11. De flection issues can also be caused by improper use of the structure. Scott Coffman’s article includes circumstances of cabinets stuffed full of heavy materials and situations in student housing. As a student at NCSU, I recall having a king size waterbed in the dorm. (It was the 1970s and not uncommon back then, so no judgement, please.) Hopefully, building designers of college dorms expect some idiosyncratic arrangements.

12. Per Scott Coffman’s article, localized deflection of floor systems is the primary serviceability complaint of homeownership.

13. Flooring elements are going to behave differently based on variations of dead loads.

Image of unbalanced cabinet load in “Errors in Substituting Dead Load for Live Load in Wood Design.”

14. Creep should be considered during design, as it refers to the long-term effect of dead loads that can become more pronounced as the building ages.

15. Gaps in fabrication can contribute to deflection issues — see my article “Why is the Gaps Limitation So Important to Truss Fabrication?” from August 2023.

16. Even when in compliance with ANSI/TPI 1, gaps can lead to long-term creep issues.

17. Bad installation habits (often attributed to lack of understanding) will reduce the positive impact that bracing, strongbacks, and sheathing nailing schedules provide to ensure the component acts as a system — see my June 2023 article, “Are You Providing Enough Information to Avert Failures?”

18. A floor truss can have deflection variations within the component. For example, the chase can present more flex than other parts of the truss — see last month’s article by MiTek, “Deflection Across the Chase in a Floor Truss.”

●Floor performance is greatly impacted by the variation of lengths of floor elements and the materials they use. The figure on the first page illustrates how stepping from the longer green element to the shorter blue element and then to the rigid wall support is going to result in a different user experience for each step because of what is under the floor. Mitigating these situations depends greatly on the incorporation of strongbacks and internal blocking and bracing. The installation of premium sheathing materials is a potential recommendation based on the customer’s needs and expectations.

● Camber should be introduced and incorporated in the design to counter the impact of permanent loads and live loads.

●Custom kitchen islands with granite, tall partition walls, and added loads not considered during component design must be addressed.

●Careful manufacturing procedures can mitigate deflection problems.

● Consider including an additional top chord element stacking longer panel areas in components that should have tighter restrictions.

● Promote the adoption of SBCA’s BCSI usage and tagging procedures to facilitate instruction for erection contractors.

The Bottom Line

Don’t roll over when you are confronted with complaints regarding deflection. Take this opportunity to help your client understand the nature of the product and their responsibilities of installation. But, even before you submit a proposal, consider all of the ways your team can minimize the negative effects of this very vulnerable issue.

An ANSI/TPI 1 3rd Party Quality Assurance Authorized Agent covering the Southeastern United States, Glenn Traylor is an independent consultant with over four decades of experience in the structural building components industry. Glenn serves as a trainer-evaluator-auditor covering sales, design, PM, QA, customer service, and production elements of the truss industry. He also provides project management specifically pertaining to structural building components, including on-site inspections, expert witness and ANSI/TPI 1 compliance assessments. Glenn provides new plant and retrofit designs, equipment evaluations, ROI, capacity analysis, and CPM analysis.

Elevate Your Wall Panel, Floor Truss or Roof Truss Manufacturing with 4Ward Design Solutions’ Precision Component Design Services!

Extend your existing capabilities with 4Ward’s design expertise. Without the hassle and expense of training your own designers, partnering with us guarantees that each wall panel, floor truss or roof truss will be designed for structural integrity and production and field efficiency.

Achieve cost efficiency without compromising on excellence.

Our cost sensitive approach ensures maximum value for your investment.

Build Smarter

Leverage our expertise, ensuring every component is attentively designed for optimal performance and durability.

Price Reduction!

2002 Monet B500 five-blade component saw – Single Sided Setup includes digital readouts, push-button movement controls for angles, manual movement for length, mechanical backup counters, (1) 30″ diameter blade, (2) 18″ diameter blades, (2) 16″ diameter blades, powered chain infeed with upper hold-downs and shaker pan waste conveyor. Cuts angles from 8 to 115 degree angles. Minimum 90/90 cut is 10 inches and shortest angle cut is 18 inches. Cuts 2×4 through 2×12 lumber up to 20 feet in length. Includes horizontal shaker-pan waste conveyor, spare set of blades, any available spare parts. 480 V, 3 Ph, 100 Amp electrical.

Fitzgerald Group, LLC

a blending of excellent services and products, with answers that work...!©

Not producing the results you need or want – getting conflicting info about what to do and the equipment and the systems you may need?

Before you Buy - Ask yourself –do I need a salesman or a guide?

If you want an Independent Guide that has your bottom-line results as the #1 priority, Call Me. If the salesman will do - we'll talk later...

Also, don't let Financing Deals influence your best solution. FitzGroup can arrange – Zero down & No payments for 90 Days!

Please be assured that your investment with any of our selected partners will not cost one penny more with the Fitzgerald Group as your purchasing contact. In addition, you will receive the full advantage of our Partner Relationships and Services NOT offered elsewhere.

Can you set up and build these seven trusses in twenty-three minutes?

The WizardPDS® - Perimeter Definition System is an automated jig system that reduces set up time by 99%. The WizardPDS® requires NO additional jig hardware or images to accomplish a complete truss set up in 20 seconds or less. Want to add automation to your existing line? With WizardPDS® ChannelS®, you can retrofit a portion of your tables or the entire system.

The WizardPDS® converts set up time to build time.

Your table, automated.

We bring the best together!

2005 Alpine ALS 276C Linear Saw

2005 Alpine ALS 276C Linear Saw: Cuts wall and truss parts from lumber depths 2×4 through 2×12, 60”+ scarf cuts, internally optimizes material (up to 11 7/8″ x 1.5″ EWP) Includes 20 foot idler roller infeed conveyor and 15 foot idler roller outfeed conveyor, and under-saw scrap conveyor with belt-type incline. All servo controlled functions, Microsoft Windows 10 Pro o/s (can be upgraded to Windows 10 LTSC for additional cost), 7.5 HP motor with 20” carbide tipped blade. Includes digital manual and Zebra brand label maker, model 105SL. No ink printer is included. 220 volt, 3 phase, 100 Amp electrical required. 125 PSI air required.

EZ-SET AUTO JIGGING EXCLUSIVE & PATENTED DESIGN

Automatic Truss Jigging System to drastically reduce setup times. Allows for 100% embedment on the table, with top & bottom chord pucks in the same slot. TopSider or standard configurations available for conventional kick-leg, walk-thru, or our new trackless 8' and 10' continuous table systems. Systems for other roller & hydraulic gantries are coming soon. Available in new machine installations or for retro-fitting your existing table. The TopSider is exclusively applicable for “kick or flip leg” style truss presses such as the Tri-Axis & Lumbermater®

FEATURES / APPLICATIONS

• Capable of 100% On-Table Nail Plate Embedment

• Two Pucks Per Slot

• 24", 26", and/or 30" Spacing

• Compatible with all current major design software

• Multiple Simultaneous Layouts

13 1/2” Capacity

• Foot Pedal Operation

• Dust Outlet

• TigerStop 16’ Programmable Stop

• Automatic Positioning of Stop via Simple and Intuitive Controls

• Infeed/Outfeed Plastic Top Tables with stands

• Excludes: Dust Collector and Adjacent Computer in Orange Cabinet $13,500 NOW $12,000 FOB NE Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Together the PieceGiver and PieceMaker streamline production, boost efficiency and reduce manual labor – all with just ONE operator.

Is truss cutting your bottleneck? Get in touch to learn how the power duo can transform your workflow!

The PieceMaker

An automated linear saw that cuts, prints and optimizes.

The PieceGiver

A high speed, fully automatic lumber loading system.

Wendy Boyd Chief Customer Officer Machinery Group Spida Machinery

From Blade to Data: Can Cutting Become a Measurable, Optimized System?

Walk into most structural component manufacturing facilities across North America and you’ll see a familiar contrast: highly sophisticated design software upstream, increasingly automated assembly downstream — and somewhere in the middle, cutting processes that still rely heavily on operator experience and static machine settings.

Despite decades of innovation in equipment, cutting often remains one of the least measured and least optimized parts of the production chain. That raises an uncomfortable question: are we leaving performance, cost savings, and consistency on the table because we’re not treating cutting as a data-driven system?

Cutting: Advanced Machines, Analog Mindset

Modern saws and cutting systems are far from primitive. Many offer programmable controls, automation features, and compatibility with digital workflows. Yet in practice, optimization often stops at setup:

• Feed rates are set based on experience or manufacturer guidelines.

• Blade changes follow rough schedules or operator judgment.

• Performance issues are identified only after defects or delays appear.

In other words, the equipment may be digital, but the decision-making process around it often isn’t.

This creates a blind spot that must be addressed. Without meaningful data, it’s difficult to answer basic operational questions. What is the true cost per cut? When is a blade actually no longer performing optimally? Where are we losing time — cutting, handling, or rework? These are the questions you should be asking.

What Would a Data-Driven Cutting Process Look Like?

A measurable cutting system doesn’t require futuristic technology— it starts with visibility. Imagine a better process where these things happen. Machines track cut time, throughput, and idle time automatically. Blade performance is monitored based on output quality and usage, not guesswork. Variability between operators, shifts, or facilities is visible and comparable.

Data should be fed back into production planning and costing models. In this environment, cutting becomes less of an isolated task and more of an integrated, optimizable system — similar to how many manufacturers now treat CNC machining or logistics.

The Opportunity: Small Gains, Large Impact

Cutting is a high-frequency operation. Even small inefficiencies compound quickly. Consider the potential impact of targeted improvements. A modest increase in cutting speed without sacrificing quality. Reduced material waste through better process control. Fewer unplanned stoppages due to blade failure. Less rework caused by inconsistent cuts.

Individually, these improvements may seem incremental. Across thousands of cuts per week, they become significant drivers of margin and throughput.

So Why Isn’t This Already Standard?

If the opportunity is so clear, why hasn’t data-driven cutting become the norm? Several barriers persist:

1. Fragmented Equipment: Many facilities operate a mix of machines from different generations and manufacturers, making standardization difficult.

2. Limited Instrumentation: Unlike other parts of the production line, cutting systems often lack built-in sensors or data capture capabilities.

3. Cultural Factors: Cutting has traditionally been seen as a skill-based task. Experienced operators rely on sound, feel, and visual cues — knowledge that isn’t easily quantified.

4. Unclear ROI: Without baseline data, it’s hard to justify investment in measurement tools or process changes.

Bridging the Gap: From Experience to Insight

The goal isn’t to replace operator expertise — it’s to amplify it. Experienced operators already make complex, real-time decisions: adjusting feed rates based on material behavior, recognizing early signs of blade wear, and compensating for variability in inputs.

Capturing and translating this tacit knowledge into data is where real progress happens. Even simple steps can move the needle:

• Tracking blade life more systematically.

• Logging downtime causes.

• Comparing performance across shifts or product types.

Over time, patterns emerge — and those patterns create opportunities for standardization and improvement.

Looking Ahead: Toward Smarter Cutting Systems

As manufacturing continues to evolve, cutting processes are unlikely to remain isolated. We’re beginning to see early signs of integration:

• Equipment that can report performance metrics in real time.

• Software that links design files more directly to cutting instructions.

• Increased interest in predictive maintenance and process optimization.

The question isn’t whether cutting will become more data-driven — it’s how quickly manufacturers choose to make that transition.

A Shift in Perspective

For many organizations, the biggest change isn’t technological — it’s conceptual. Cutting has long been treated as a necessary step in production. But when viewed through a data lens, it becomes something else entirely: a controllable, measurable system with untapped potential for optimization.

The manufacturers who recognize this shift early won’t just cut material more efficiently — they’ll make better decisions across their entire operation.

$118,997 FOB GA

2014 Monet DeSawyer 2000

(Non-servo) five-blade, automated component saw using a touch screen interface and Windows 10 OS for direct input. Operates in automated or manual input mode. (1) 10 h.p., 30″ diameter blade with PAE setup & (4) 5 h.p. 16″ diameter blades with center line setup. 16″ blades cut angles from 3º to 115º, 30″ blade from 3º to 100º . Minimum 90/90 cut is 10 inches and shortest 4-angle cut is 18 inches. Cuts 2×4 through 2×12 lumber up to 20 feet in length.

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

Hundegger leads the way in automation innovation for the truss component industry. Our advanced CAMBIUM software offers cutting-edge automation and digitalization solutions, revolutionizing operations, boosting productivity, and driving sustainable growth for manufacturers like you.

We go beyond standard mechanization; we champion true Automation. The Hundegger TD-II isn't just a saw-it's a transformative, comprehensive solution designed to streamline your production process. From retrieving lumber to optimizing, nesting, stacking, destacking, sorting, buffering, and precise delivery, our system ensures peak efficiency and productivity, tailored specifically to truss component manufacturing.

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Harness the power of data with Hundegger's advanced CAMBIUM TACTICAL software. It meticulously tracks and optimizes your production, ensuring more automated operations and significant productivity gains.

We provide state-of-the-art automation and control solutions that set the industry standard. Our focus on industrial automation and robotics positions Hundegger as the leader in enhancing performance and efficiency in truss component manufacturing and beyond.

Hundegger products are essential for future-proofing your business. Elevate your productivity and secure your competitive edge with our advanced technologies and automation solutions, meticulously designed to meet the unique demands of component manufacturers today and tomorrow.

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive.

2018 Spida Plate Marker with DeWalt Saw

• 20' of Steel Framed Table with Plastic Top

• Spida Automated 20' Length Stop/ Plate Positioner

• Auto Plate Positioning with Manual Marking

• Control Cabinet Enclosure with Touch Screen Computer

• DeWalt Model DWS780 Miter Saw

• Support Table for DeWalt Saw

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor

• Excludes Dust Collector & Spida Annual Support Fee

$19,900 NOW $18,900 FOB ND Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2024 ASI Chop Saw Automation

Wall panel cutting station with conveyors. Cuts and marks wall panel pieces up to (2) 2x-boards high. Includes a DeWalt 12″ dia. blade mitre saw, 20-ft long length measure, 16-ft long outfeed conveyor, ASI “Basic” wall panel cutting software with Lenovo PC, plate marker on two 1.5″ edges/1 edge per board and manual. Software reads EHX, TRS, Sapphire XML, EZY, CYB, WCD, ASI, BTL & BTLx files. HMI display available in English, Spanish & French. 120 volt, 1 phase electrical required.

$39,997 FOB NY Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1994 Timbermill Model MH5G-20

Component Saw

Five blades cut lumber from 2″ x 4″ through 2″ x 12″, 4″ x 2″ lengths from 12 inches to 20 feet, including four-angle floor webs from 18 inches. All powered movements. Saw includes (1) 30″, (2) 20″ and (2) 14″ blades, analog scales, chain-drag scrap conveyor with chain-drag scrap incline, and an extra set of blades. Additionally this saw includes an extensive spare parts inventory including: Contacts/Starters, fuses, push buttons, limit switches, crank handles, scales/rulers/dials, angulation, conveyor, and saw motors, universal joints, and arms for outfeeds. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$17-924 FOB NC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1994 Holtec Bunk Saw Station 20-ft long fixed frame with steel alignment stands, and rough-top waste conveyor belt. Cuts bunks of lumber up to 16-ft long with a 40″ x 44″ cross-section, in a single pass. Includes guide frame, manual / analog length measurement, manual rack & pinion gantry movement, an automated oiler (has a leak that needs repair) for the saw bar, one 0.404″ pitch chain, and OEM “longlife” saw bar. Also includes a flat conveyor under saw & an incline. (NOTE: This saw is not best suited for PET studs, instead great for precut bunks, and nominal cut EWP).

$19,897 FOB GA

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

$48,900 FOB BC

2019 Spida Automated Apollo Saw

• Automated Length Stop and Automated Saw Angulation as directed by Truss Design Software Output

• Touch Screen Computer with Truss Cutting Operating Software (GEN 8)

• Direct Drive 7.5 HP Motor (460 Volt / 3 Phase) with 18" Blade

• Automated 160 Degree Angular Movement

• Minumum Angle of 10 Degrees with 36" Stroke for Long Scarf Cuts

• Variable Stroke Limiter, Plexiglass Shield & Laser Pointer for Operator Safety

• 20' of Steel Framed/Plastic Top Table with Automated 20' Length Stop

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor

• Dust Collection System

• Excludes: Installation/Training & Annual Technical Support Fee

• Video available upon request

• Price in US Dollars

Alpine ALS 276C Linear Saw $39,990 FOB OH

Cuts wall and truss parts from lumber depths 2×4 through 2×12, 60”+ scarf cuts, internally optimizes material (up to 11 7/8″ x 1.5″ EWP) Includes 20 foot OEM auto-infeed conveyor and 15 foot OEM outfeed conveyor, and under-saw scrap conveyor with belt-type incline. All servo controlled functions, Microsoft Windows XP OS, 7.5 hp motor with 20” carbide tipped blade. Includes spare infeed/outfeed belt and any available spare parts. No printer is included. The door latch needs to be repaired. 220v / 3 ph power, 125 PSI air required.

Drag Trusses: The Hidden Component of Lateral Systems

Ihad a chance not long ago to grab coffee with an old college roommate. We’re both engineers by trade, but our careers took different paths — he went into structural consulting, while I went into component design, working with wood trusses. As often happens, the conversation quickly turned to work. He mentioned a recurring challenge in his projects: delegating truss design. In the middle of that discussion, he brought up a term he had only recently encountered — drag truss. He described trying to explain to a builder that a particular truss needed to be designed not just for gravity, but to transfer lateral loads into a shear wall below. That load condition had been missed in the initial truss design.

That conversation stuck with me. Because the more I thought about it, the more I realized something important. For most designers, trusses are intuitive when it comes to gravity. They support vertical loads and transfer them down through the structure. But lateral load behavior is different. And that raises a fundamental question: How are trusses used within a building’s lateral system?

Understanding the Load Path

In contrast to gravity loads, which move vertically through a structure, lateral loads are first distributed horizontally through the diaphragm — typically the roof or floor system — before being transferred into vertical resisting elements such as shear walls.

Drag trusses serve as collector elements within this system. Their role is to transfer forces from the diaphragm to the shear walls below, helping complete the lateral load path.

Unless the Engineer of Record (EOR) explicitly identifies drag truss locations and forces, it can be surprisingly difficult to determine where they are required, what forces they are intended to carry, and how they integrate into the overall lateral system.

Jeff Vance, PE Principal Optimization Engineer

Figure 1. Example of truss acting as a collector.

What Changes When a Truss Becomes a Drag Truss

When a truss takes on this role, its behavior changes significantly. Instead of carrying primarily gravity loads, the truss must now resist axial forces introduced by the lateral system. These forces can:

● Add significant tension or compression to chords and webs

● Introduce load reversal under seismic conditions

● Increase the demand on truss plate connections.

Equally important are the end and collector connections, which govern how forces enter and leave the truss. Without a clearly defined load path through these connections, the truss cannot effectively perform its role as a collector.

Where Drag Trusses Typically Occur

Based on their function, drag trusses can appear in several common conditions:

● At or above shear walls to deliver diaphragm forces directly into the lateral system

●At offset shear walls where forces must be transferred across the diaphragm

●Over large openings (such as corridors or storefronts) to redirect forces to adjacent shear walls

●At diaphragm discontinuities caused by complex geometry or framing changes.

In many cases, the truss is not originally intended to serve as a collector — but becomes one because it is the most direct available load path.

The

Real Design Challenge: It’s Not the Truss — It’s the System

One of the biggest challenges in designing drag trusses is that the problem is rarely isolated to the truss itself.

Figure 2. Drag load inputs from MiTek truss design software.

If the load path is not clearly defined in the construction documents, critical information is often missing, including:

● The magnitude of the drag (collector) forces

● How the diaphragm connects to the truss

●Where and how those forces are ultimately resisted.

Without this information, even a well-designed truss may not function as intended within the system.

Why Boundary Conditions Matter

A crucial — and often overlooked — aspect of drag truss design is understanding the boundary conditions, or how the truss is connected within the structure. Truss design software requires assumptions about how loads are applied and resisted. But in the case of drag trusses, those assumptions must align with the actual load path.

Key questions include:

● Are forces distributed along the entire bottom chord, or only a portion?

● Is the load transferred through the top chord using straps or collectors?

● Where are the forces delivered into the shear wall system?

These decisions directly impact how forces flow through the truss and whether the design accurately reflects real-world behavior.

Closing Thought: From Component to System

Understanding how trusses function — not just as gravity elements, but as part of the lateral load path — is essential for today’s wood construction. Drag trusses highlight an important shift in perspective. Trusses are not just individual components. They are part of a larger structural system. And when that system isn’t clearly defined, even experienced designers can find themselves filling in the gaps.

Figure 3. Example of drag truss connection.

1999 Alpine SpeedCut

Centerline Pull-Arm Saw

1999 Alpine Metra Cut, model SSA-17, pull arm, centerline saw. 16″ blade, maximum cutting depth of 6″, maximum scarf length of 31″, 164 deg. cutting range and 5 HP motor. Includes push-button on/off controls and analog angle measure on turntable. Need re-assembly. 220/440 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

Call For Pricing, FOB OR Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2023 Northfield Model 410 Upcut Saw NEW 2023 Northfield model 410 upcut saw available for immediate shipment. 90/90 degree cuts to 4″ x 10″ capacity (fence forward position) to 2″ x 14″ (fence rearward position). Saw is configured for material from left to right, with 3″ x 6″ air operated cylinder, filter, regulator, lubricator, 10 HP motor, enclosed steel base with cast iron table, magnetic starter and adjustable operating speed from 20 to 60 CPM. Includes optional two-palm controls, additional 4″ dust outlet, NEMA 12 electrics with fused disconnect and two 18″ diameter 60 tooth blades with 1″ diameter bore. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$18,630 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2005 Alpine ALS 276C Linear Saw 2005 Alpine ALS 276C linear-feed saw (Refurbished in 2015). Cuts wall and truss parts from lumber depths 2×4 through 2×12, 60”+ scarf cuts, internally optimizes material (up to 11 7/8″ x 1.5″ EWP). Includes 15-foot idler roller infeed conveyor, 15-foot idler roller outfeed conveyor, and under-saw scrap conveyor with belt-type incline. All servo-controlled functions, Microsoft Windows 10 OS, 7.5 hp motor with 20” carbide tipped blade. Includes any available spare parts. No printer is included. 230v, 3 ph power, 70A electrical required. Includes step-down transformer. 125 PSI air required.

$39,991 NOW $35,997 FOB OR Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1982 SpeedCut MetraCut Centerline Saw

GOOSENECK ROLL OFF TRUSS TRAILERS

1982 Speed Cut Metra Cut, model SSA-11, centerline saw, 16″ blade, maximum cutting depth of 6″, maximum cut length of 31″, 164 deg. cutting range and 5 HP motor. Includes push-button on/off controls and analog angle measure on turntable with air stop, 20′ long infeed conveyor with OEM SpeedMeasure, 20′ long outfeed conveyor and one (1) spare blade. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required (can be converted to 240v/440v).

$6,990 FOB WY Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1-800-237-5161 sales@precisionequipmfg.com

New Monet DeRobo Linear Saw

New, DeRobo linear saw by Monet organizes "fill" boards to increase optimization of each board, can produce unlimited scarf cuts, cuts 1 or 2 boards at a time and cuts webs, chords, wedges, rafters and open-stair stringers. Works with all major connector plate manufacturer's software. Features include 22 inch blade, left-to-right feed direction standard, lumber push and pull grippers for more accuracy, ink marking on the 1 1/2" face of the incoming boards and small piece capture and delivery to the front of the saw for easy access. Infeed deck and bunk feed are shown as options only. 480 volt, 3phase.

$257,000 FOB MO.

with

Roller

The Auto-Feeding RetroC

The Amazing RetroC by Enventek

A complete wood processing system proven to profitably feed cut lumber to truss plants of all sizes.

Easy to use, simple robust automation that is scalable with less labor. A RetroC holds calibration.

Out Produces Any Saw in Batch Cut or Cut by Truss Mode

Auto-Feeding, no upper hold-downs (just 15 automation axes) with electronic braking. Efficient material handling that will significantly increase cut piece production with reduced operating costs and improve truss build times with consistently accurate cut pieces.

The Magic of SpeedCatch - No Catching Labor

Catching labor is eliminated with our optional SpeedCatch cart system. Sophisticated SpeedCatch software enhances the efficiency of truss production by effectively collating and organizing the lumber at the truss tables. SpeedCatch upgrades the RetroC to a comprehensive one-person (sawyer) wood processing system.

Hain Systems Framer

The Hain Systems Framer (HSF) will help you build square and accurate wall panels for residential or commercial construction applications. It will help you cut building costs by saving time and improving your quality. It’s a reliable, efficient and proven system that features a ruggedly simple design. The HSF is based on a proven design with over 20 years of actual production use and maintenance experience. It comes fully assembled and is designed for portable job site framing or in-plant permanent installation. The table has many optional attachments and will support Mylar Tape wall layout or any other type of layout. The optional gun rails can also be retro-fit to any table.

Details:

Table Construction: Thick-wall Structural Steel Tubing, Jig Welded for Accuracy

Height: 12 inches

feet (720”)

Air Supply: 90 psi (10 CFM Air Flow Recommended)

Depth: 12 inches

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Powder Coat: Industrial Gray

Dimensions: Height: 43”

Length: 16’ or 20’

Width: Adjustable 8’ to 10’ or 8’ to 12’

Shipping Weight: 3000 lbs

If you are looking for the fastest, most consistent way to measure and cut your product, then the Hain Measuring System (MEA) is your answer. The MEA changes from one length t any length instantly, up to 60’, without changing the operator’s position on the line. It is also highly accurate (+/- .010) and quickly moves from one length to the next in seconds. The MEA is designed for quick and easy setup and is simple to use. Even a first time user will be productive with little or no training required. It can adapt to any saw and can be mounted to any surface so that you can integrate the MEA with your existing setup. The MEA is versatile allowing “left” or “right” handed operation and measurement in “feet and inches” or “inches” depending on your preference. The MEA is also available in a “Skid Mounted” version.

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

To see meaningful labor savings, quality improvement and production gains, SL Lasers with their easyto-see green light are nothing short of illuminating. They enhance worker accuracy and productivity, regardless of experience or primary language. They can reduce tedious setup time by up to 70%. No complex training or costly service agreements are required. And SL Lasers integrate seamlessly with any component design software and are quickly installed over existing equipment. We’ve been trailblazers in wood component laser projection since its very beginning, and we’re still delivering more rapid ROI for roof truss, wall and floor panel producers every day. Contact our enlightening team at Wood Tech Systems to see how SL Laser can deliver for you.

A dverti $ er

Striebig Optisaw, model

Optisaw Automatic (Type # 5164) vertical panel saw station, with angled frame supporting material being cut: Max. cutting height (vertical) 5′-4″, max. cutting length (horizontal) 15′-1″, max. cutting thickness 2.36″. Both vertical and horizontal analog measuring scales on frame. Cutting head manually rotates from vertically to horizontally for rip vs. cross-cutting, adjustable spacers for repetitive cuts, 5.25 HP saw motor, 9.84″ diameter blade, guide bearings for travel , push button controls, e-stop button and dust extraction hose (no vacuum included). Overall footprint of station 19′-1″ wide x 4′7″ deep x 7′-10″ height. Sold for $36,000 new. 208 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$14,490 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

• Model 349A

• Automated Setup via Download or SemiAutomated Setup via Touch Screen

• Servo Controlled Saw

• 23 Axes of Automation

• Typical setup time is less than 14 Seconds

• Five Blades (3-18", 1-20" and 1-32") with Blade Brakes

• Cut 2x3 thru 2x12 from 2'-6" to 20'

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• Spare Parts: Danaher S1808 Module and Fox Drive Six Pack

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• E xcludes Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Video available upon request

• Price is US Dollars

FOB AB

2000 Alpine AutoMill Component Saw 2000 Alpine AutoMill model 343H, (5) blade component saw, cuts lumber from 2×3 through 2×12, from 18″ to 20′, 4-angle floor webs from 18″. Includes powered length and angulation, digital readouts, (1) 32″, (3) 18″ & (1) 20″ blade, shaker under-saw scrap conveyor, incline, PC with Windows 98 o/s, and outfeed conveyor. Decommissioned in 2018. Stored indoors. 480 volt ,3 phase electrical required.

$10,497 NOW $5,997 FOB ON Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Alpine AutoMill RS Parts

Alpine AutoMill RS Parts per Uploaded PDF

$23,500 NOW $19,500 FOB GA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

NEW Hain 20' Powered Measuring System

Adapts to Any Saw. Left or Right Hand Operation. Feet & Inches System (Stops at 12” Centers) or Inches System (Stops at 10” Centers). Motor: 1/4 HP Linear Actuator (110 Volt). Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4” Aluminum Extrusion. Stops: Jig Bored Steel. Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum. Optional Lengths from 5’ to 60’. Optional Gang Stop. Add $890 per 10’ Section of Heavy Duty Roller Conveyor with Stands

$8,990

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2024 Hundegger Turbo Drive II Linear Saw

Configured for I-joist cutting of material 2×3 through 2×12, and EWP up to 17″ in width in lengths from 6′ to 32′. Saw includes Cadmium software and PC, outfeed monitor, UPS, frame for future install of tool carrier & motor in the future, central lube, bronze gilding, 5-arm infeed with additional 3 arms for loading EWP, extendable infeed supports, outfeed conveyor with storage arms, OEM waste system with controller, rear Ink-Jet printing, stacked timber processing, remote monitor, etc. Sold for over $410.000 new + freight and duty. Ready for immediate shipment. OEM Installation required.

Truss & Wall Panel Design Staff

EWP Layouts and much more!

Sub Component Nailer

Block Sizes: 2x4 & 2x6 framing lumber, any length

Nail Cycle Time: 1 nail 1 sec; 2 nail 2 sec; 3 nail 3 sec

Machine Set Up Time: 1 sec from any prior set up

Air Supply: 125 psi at 30 CFM, nothing less

Electrical Supply: 120 VAC

Frame: 1/4” steel plates mounted to heavy duty roll top tables and 2x2 skids mounted no install

Find Good People and Grow Old With Them

By Alpine Staff

Six decades of partnership, practical innovation, and growth: That is the legacy Alpine® celebrates as it marks its 60th anniversary. Turning the big 6-0 is something that hits some people hard, while others consider themselves lucky to reach that milestone. But a business in a competitive landscape, particularly one that started from objectively humble beginnings — marking its Diamond Anniversary?

It’s worth celebrating — recognizing the people, hard work, and innovation that helped the company thrive while also looking forward. As Alpine turns 60, reflection shines a light on the history and trajectory of the organization that has helped define — and frequently redefine — the component manufacturing industry.

The legacy began in 1966 when Bill McAlpine and Charlie Harnden left Sanford Industries to form Alpine Engineered Products in Pompano Beach, Florida. Truss design was done using only “paper, pencils, and slide rules,” but the duo, working from a small shop, churned out 200 truss designs for three customers that first year. In doing so, they established our hallmark: practical innovation, grounded in customer needs.

Within a year the founders had already expanded, acquiring a small nail plate manufacturer. This growth mindset set the tone — within the first decade, they acquired three more companies, expanding service capabilities and territories.

Industry-Shaping

As the structural building components industry grew, Alpine helped shape the conversation around innovation and best practices. The company wrote the industry’s first optimizing and pricing software in 1970, while also researching and developing truss assembly equipment that year. A decade later, Harnden helped co-found an industry institution: the first BCMC equipment exhibition, in Louisville, Kentucky.

Our innovations evolved in lockstep with that progress — from advances in layout software and CAD-type graphics that helped pave the way for today’s design environments, to plant-level concepts that reshaped operations, automation, and optimization.

Alpine® founders Bill McAlpine and Charlie Harnden

The company’s growth has also reflected an important tenet of component manufacturing: one material or method doesn’t fit every project. In 1995, Alpine introduced TrusSteel, expanding into cold-formed steel truss systems and serving a wider range of structural needs.

Over the decades, the company has developed a comprehensive suite of solutions, including software, engineering services, connector plates, and equipment — designed to help customers manufacture better buildings while becoming more competitive.

A defining moment in Alpine’s modern story arrived in 2006, when Illinois Tool Works (ITW) acquired Alpine Engineered Products. As a division of ITW, we continue to invest in innovation, software development, and engineering services, while remaining committed to component manufacturer needs.

Mike Johnson joined Alpine over 35 years ago and serves as the Southern Region Sales Manager. He explained that the company has always been tremendously fluid and agile in meeting customer needs. “We all try to run our departments like it’s our own business — making good decisions and focusing on what truly serves our customers. That allows us to build trust and form lasting partnerships.”

The Story is in the People

Now with the company for over half of its existence, Engineering Manager Bill Krick, P.E., joined Alpine straight from college. Asked about the secret to its success and longevity, he replied: “It’s the people, whether it’s the people who stamp the plates and ship them, the sales team, the programmers, the engineers, or the administration, marketing, and HR — it’s all of them.”

A plaque in the Orlando office represents an idea that has become a foundational principle. “Find good people and grow old with them” is a sentiment from McAlpine that captures Alpine’s belief that strong relationships, trusted partners, and committed, passionate teams are at the core of our business. The fact that so many staff members pride themselves on decades of experience here also speaks to the enduring nature of its positive culture.

Krick added that even as the company has weathered acquisitions, ownership transitions, and challenges like the 2008 economic downturn, COVID, and others, new staff members typically embrace the company culture quickly. That culture has remained steadfast as the company has continued to help component manufacturers design and make high-quality roof, floor, and wall components. In fact, the culture is also measured in outcomes: millions of homes built in North America under one name.

Alpine supports advanced sustainability throughout the industry. Component-based construction improves material efficiency and reduces jobsite waste, which are crucial benefits in today’s builds. Additionally, Alpine design software enables technicians to value-engineer and optimize component designs, reducing unneeded material from the outset.

Cultivating Talent

As a longtime leader in building innovation, Alpine has always understood that shaping the industry’s future requires more than technical excellence and leadership: it requires cultivating diverse talent and growing from within when possible.

When Cathy Hill first joined the company nearly 30 years ago, there weren’t many women in the room. Now serving as Product Owner and residential architect, she oversees the core truss design and engineering software, and she has appreciated seeing more female colleagues joining the conversation. “While it has traditionally been a male-dominated field, women are embracing construction and it’s becoming increasingly balanced,” she said.

Hill, a strong advocate for women in the industry, partially attributes her success to having excellent mentors throughout her career. “I’ve been fortunate to work with so many great mentors who’ve consistently encouraged me to push myself or take on new challenges, and that has helped me grow in ways I haven’t yet imagined.” However, she added, much of her success — and Alpine’s — ties directly back to delivering value to customers. “Each day brings new challenges, a new problem to solve, and we’re committed to meeting them, whether it’s creating new features or resolving issues — our goal is always helping our customers succeed.”

Partnering Remains Paramount

With the company for nearly four decades and having served customers from nearly every department, Marty Hauge, Senior Software Trainer, said the culture that Harnden and McAlpine established six decades ago has not only survived but flourished. “The focus has always been on partnering with the customers, providing solutions to their problems, and helping them grow. And by doing that, we grow.” Industry buzzwords and acronyms come and go, he added, “but at Alpine® , being a good, true partner to our customers doesn’t change. That theme hasn’t changed in the 37 years that I have been here.”

From a small Pompano Beach shop designing trusses with slide rules to a global division of ITW, Alpine’s trajectory over 60 years has been remarkable. Matt Davis, Group President, noted that this anniversary “presents a perfect opportunity to take stock of where we’ve been, where we are, and look forward to the opportunities and a bright future.”

Looking ahead, that original vision — partnering with customers to drive innovation and shared growth — will continue to guide every decision.

2016 Alpine AutoMill HP Component Saw

Alpine AutoMill HP, model 349C component saw. Servo controlled computerized saw sets up in 2 to 19 seconds and downloads from a network, or by using a touch screen for ease of operation. Five-head automated component saw works in both automated (downloading files), semi-automated control (via touch-screen input) or manual mode. It has (23) axes of automated movement, enhanced diagnostics, and auto management reporting.

The HP cuts from 2′-6″ to 20′-0″ long material in size range from 2×3″ through 2×12″, and 4-angle floor webs from 2′-0″. Includes [3] 18″, [1] 20″ and [1] 30″ blades with air brakes, Windows 7 o/s and under-saw scrap conveyor. The Windows 7 o/s can be upgraded to a version of Windows 10 that will be supported until 2032, at an additional expense.

Also includes over $8,000 in spare parts. 480 volt, 3 phase, 100 Amp electrical required. 90 PSI @ 69 SCFM air required.

$129,997 NOW $119,990 - FOB OR

2004 Hundegger SC1 Linear Saw

• Serial #9029

• Servo Driven Single Blade Linear Saw

• Automated Cutting with Software Download to Operator Console

• 20' Capacity Loading Conveyor Systems

• Automated Infeed Wheel

• Automated Clamping & Positioning System

• Angle & Bevel Drive for Roof Truss,

Floor Truss & Wall Panel Cutting

• 20' Capacity Outfeed Table with Ink Jet Printer

• 5 Arm Storage Deck (adjacent to saw outfeed table)

• Waste Conveyor (under saw, parts to the rear)

• A/C System for Control Cabinet

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes Incline Waste Conveyor & Dust Collector

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

• Automated Wall Panel Component Cutting & Marking as directed by your Wall Panel Design Software

• S600 Up-Cut Saw (Square Cut Only)

• 7.5 HP / 3 Phase Braked Saw Motor with 24" Blade

• Enclosed Hood & 2 Hand Control for Operator Safety

• 20' of Steel Framed/Plastic Top Table with Automated Length Stop/Plate Positioner

• 10' Infeed Steel Framed/Plastic Top Table

• 24" Industrial Touch Screen Computer

• Ink Jet Printer marks Wall Member Locations, Wall ID & Job Name

• Dust Collector

• Current use is a low volume shop

• Excludes: Installation/Training & Annual Technical Support Fee

$79,000 FOB MO

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

• Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press

Monet DeSawyer ESC Component Saw

Enhanced servo-controlled (ESC) component saw with touchscreen user interface and backup mechanical controls. Includes three operating modes: Auto (download setups from LAN or USB), Semi-auto (touch screen setup entry), and Manual (backup push-button switches for powering all movements). Includes

Windows 11 operating system, over-travel protection, setup screens, auto sequencing, auto-calibration, and pneumatic brakes on all five (5) blades; one (1) 30” blade and four (4) 16” blades. Manual cut limits are 18” min. angled roof web, 11” min. square edge blocks, 20’ max cut length. Belt under-saw waste conveyor.

Component Warning Notice Tags

An industry best practice to help component manufacturers inform installers about the safety risks associated with the handling and installation of trusses and components.

SBCA has created the Component Warning Notice (CWN) to clearly and effectively share important installation information with a triangular approach.

The CWN Website contains up-to-date warnings and guidance: componentwarningnotice.com.

The CWN Tag is applied to every truss and component, and directs installers to the website.

The CWN Sheet is included in wood-based SBCA Jobsite Packages with key information.

NEW!

Terminailer

Price: $237,900

FOB: ND

The Terminailer all but shatters the stereotypical myth that sub-component equipment is essentially peripheral – unimportant. And it does so by quickly and accurately driving far more framing nails in your wall panel jobs than ever before. Whether in your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality, which reduces labor costs and other aspects of overhead.

The new Terminailer V.8 improves on the previous generation Terminailer in several key ways:

All new HMI/Software

• Siemens Pivoting HMI Touchscreen display to operate from either side

• On-screen tutorial for all menu items

• Operator now controls functions such as process speed, nail spacing, nail patterns, etc.

• Simplified input commands

Nail Feed Complete Redesign

• All new frame to allow for redesigned nail coil placement with direct feed path

• EverWin PN90-PAL industrial tools now standard equipment

• New nail guides with spring-loaded tensioners

• Nail coils move with vertical travel of the nail guns

Reengineered air system

• SMC “Soft–Start” Pneumatics

• Simplified air for control to all components: lift–cylinders, triggers, stop–gate, etc.

• Direct air supply to each nail gun for improved nailing performance

• All pneumatic elements are clearly labeled for EZ service and adjustment

Overall Features

• Pharmaceutical grade assembly, industrial grade durability

• “Block–wheel” redesign for 3X increased applied force

• Approximately 1,200# of applied clamping force resulting in straighter finished

• Subcomponents from even the poorest lumber

• Larger doors for easier access to interior elements including coil–nail spools

Terminailer is an event-driven, sub-component assembler that will quickly and accurately drive 30% to 70% of the framing nails in any wall panel job. In your shop or in the field, one operator sets the pace for production and quality. The Terminailer functions independent of design software, requires zero set-up time when switching between any configuration, and requires no special operator training.

The Terminailer is easy to move around the shop so its location can evolve as your shop evolves. With all of the nailing occurring in the closed main chamber, nail injuries and nail location misfires are eliminated, making your plant that much safer.

With nearly ten years of development from people that know machinery, it is assembled to exacting standards, well supported, and it is easily maintained with shelf-item parts. Terminailer: vetted, tested, and ready to drive maximum productivity for you. Be sure to check out our videos below for a quick review of this revolutionary machine!

208 volt, 3-phase, 21 (full load) Amps, 60 Hz electrical required. 50 SCFM @ 100 PSI air required. Net weight 7,000 lbs..

Edmond Lim, P.Eng. LimTek Solutions Inc.

Dump and Chase is Just-in-Time

In hockey, “Dump and Chase” is highly effective depending on how deep the puck is dumped into the opposing team’s defensive zone, and how hard the dumping team will chase and fight to get back possession of the puck. The strategy is to physically punish the defending team and to wear them out to create puck turnovers and scoring opportunities.

In lean manufacturing, Just-in-Time is a “Dump and Chase” strategy that can be very efficient and effective by integrating processes, buffers (dumping), and automation (chasing) to build more trusses. A Fully Loaded RetroC is a textbook study of JIT manufacturing that has proven to be highly reliable and flexible. It is a total plant solution that will feed multiple truss tables without wearing out your workers as the RetroC and SpeedCatch will do all the chasing.

Symmetrical Cut-by-Truss Optimization is the intelligence underpinning Enventek’s Lumber PickLine, RetroC, and SpeedCatch systems. The auto-feeding RetroC cuts at such high velocity that sophisticated custom software had to be developed by Enventek to feed the RetroC. What’s more, the Lumber PickLine was born from necessity because forklift lumber picking could not handle the physical demands of the optimized cut-by-truss picks. Having bigger truss batches was another major productivity improvement by leveraging the PickLine to eliminate inefficient “mini-batches,” enabling larger collated truss runs that drastically increase truss build throughput.

A PickLine is more “dump” than “chase.” The lumber picker simply follows a WiFi-enabled tablet, dropping material into the PickLine trough that will bring the lumber up to the SmartConveyor and to the RetroC.

The SmartConveyor live deck serves as the critical JIT buffer between the picker and the RetroC. Did you know that a PickLine can feed any automated saw? For more on that, see my previous article, “Do You Have CapEx Room for 2026?”

The Magic of SpeedCatch is possible with orchestrated lumber picking so that SpeedCatch can collate the cut parts that are spilling out of the RetroC at high velocity, filling four cart slots with up to 30 pieces each in synchronized batches for left and right of the truss build table. For a more detailed explanation of that, see “In-Line Truss Production Starts With Lumber Picking.”

It is human nature to build faster when there are rows of collated lumber carts lined up in front of the truss build tables. It does not take long for a Fully Loaded RetroC to fill all the carts with minimal labor.

When you’re ready to Feed Your Beast and see these efficient and effective systems for yourself, let us know! Inside and out, LimTek Process Organization Technology will help you squeeze out more truss production and deliver quality trusses with shorter lead times to better service your customers by organizing your truss fabrication processes to maximize your investment in automation. https://limteksolutions.com/#solutions

Truss solutions from idea to installation.

Transform your truss operation with an integrated solution from Simpson Strong-Tie. The industry leader in truss plates now brings you a full suite of software, equipment, hardware and services to drive truss component manufacturing from idea to installation. Start with CS Director™ , CS Truss Studio™ , CS EWP Studio™ and CS Producer™ for design, layout, production and project management. Use our powerful Monet DeSauw industrial saws to cut webs, chords, stair stringers, rafters and wedges with speed and precision. Specify the optimal connectors, anchors and Strong-Drive ® structural fasteners for every project. You can also complement your team with our professional truss design services at any time. Altogether, you have a smart solution made to increase productivity, ensure high quality and take your business to the next level.

To learn more, contact your representative at (800) 999-5099 or visit us

2012 Vista "Angle Boss" Saw with 20' TigerStop

• 2012 Vista Model M-20 AutoSet Cut-Off Saw

• 0 to 75 Degree Left & Right Blade Rotation

• 10 HP/460 Volt Motor with 20" Blade

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor & 20' Outfeed Roller Conveyor

• 2012 TigerStop (250" Cut Length)

• TigerStop Software Version 5.30

• Excludes Dust Collector

• Video available upon request

• Price in US Dollars

$18,880 NOW $17,000 FOB MB Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2004 Manual Apollo Saw

• 5.5 HP Motor (3 Phase) with 18" Blade

• 6" Maximum Cut Depth with 36" Stroke for Long Scarf Cuts

• Minimum Angle of 10 Degress (160 Degree Angular Movement)

• Turntable Air Brake

• Variable Stroke Limiter & Saw Barrier Guard for Safety

• 15' of Roller Conveyor with Stands

• New Blade Guard (in box) $11,500 FOB NE Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Safety Speed Cut Model 7000 Panel Saw

Safety Speed Manufacturing model 7000, vertical panel saw, 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2-inch maximum thickness, accuracy within 1/64th of an inch, 96" tall x 10-foot-wide welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. Dust collection ready. Options available include lower frame width extension to 13-ft, digital readouts, laser guide, stop bar, vacuum, and midway fence.

2007 Alpine ALS 276 Linear Saw

Cuts wall and truss parts from lumber depths 2×4 through 2×12, cuts bevels from 90 to 25 degrees, 60”+ scarf cuts, optimizes material, production rates +2000 pieces per 8 hr. shift. Includes 16- foot ICC-brand infeed deck, 20-foot-long infeed roller and 16-foot powered outfeed conveyor, Matthews “Mperia V” series 8000 printer (one 3

½” face) added in 2022, and undersaw belt scrap conveyor. All servo controlled functions. Windows 10 o/s. Includes Servotronix upgrade, recent saw head bushing, bevel motor and gearbox installed in 2024, spare blade, all available spare parts and digital operator’s manual.

FL

• New saw design with double slide minimizing footprint

• Roller slide reducing risks of injury by lowering the effort pulling the saw

• Hybrid aluminum-steel construction combining the robustness of steel for the frame with the lightness of aluminum for the moving head

• High resistance powder coat paint surface finish

• Blade travel adjusts automatically depending on the saw angle

• Saw arbor type 5 HP motor with integrated mechanical brake

• (575 Volts – 3 phases)

• Angles from 10° to 110°

• Head overall travel length of 26in

• 18in saw blade

• 5.5in cutting height

• Complete « wrap-around » blade guard

• 4in dust collector connection

“Over the years Alpine ensured our quality and production kept improving. Working with Alpine has been a 22 year friendship as well as a partnership!”

— Roy Bedient

Manager/ Production Manager, Warman

Truss

Alpine has it all—the right equipment, user-friendly software and dependable hardware to improve your teams efficiency. Alpine delivers the complete package for success—including comprehensive support and service that sets us apart within our industry.

Ask those who know. They’ll tell you about the people at Alpine who make a difference.

Used Hain Quick Rafter Cutter

• Reconditioned in December 2020

• Board Sizes: 2x4 and 2x6

• Motors: Two 1 HP / 220 Volt or 440 Volt / 3 Phase

• Saw Blades: 7 1/4" Carbide Tipped (set at 45 degrees)

• Angle Adjustment: Manual Rotation with Air Brake

• Air Supply: 90 PSI

• Carriage: Steel Rails with Steel Dual V Rollers

• Pedestal: 3/16" Formed Steel

• Saw Housing: 1/2" Billet Aluminum

• Covers: 10 Gauge (1/8" thick) Steel

• Fully Enclosed for Safety

$12,500 NOW $9,900 FOB AZ Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

In answer to the demands of high-volume customers comes the Monet DeSauw FWA 500 CA (Automated Controls) floor web saw. The 500 CA is perfect for component manufacturers who routinely run floor trusses in high volumes with variable web geometry. Another primary feature is enhanced safety through automation which eliminates the need to open the saw motor cabinets other than for periodic service. The 500 CA includes automation for all blades, including the fixed cut-off blade for minimal waste. Lumber infeed speed is variable up to sixty (60) boards per minute, while the powered carriage utilizes rack and pinion drive with airlock for set accuracy throughout the production run. Your operator will easily download batches to the 500 CA saw from your design software via an ethernet connection to a MS Windows 10 industrial PC with a 17″ monitor housed in a stand-alone console. If you frequently batch floor web cutting, and if enhanced safety with increased productivity are a concern, then an automated Monet FWA 500 CA may be the right selection for you. More information click Here

Price based on configuration.

todrillstudsforrunningRomexorotherelectricalwireinthewallpanels

Motor: HeavyDuty5HP-3phase-220vor440v(Pleasespecifywhenordering)

MotorcarriagebearingandspindleassemblymountedonBlanchardgroundsteelplate LinealmotionishardenedandgroundVbearingsandrails

BlockSizes: 2x4through2x12infiniteheightsettingtocenter

AirSupply: 100psi10CFM

Drills: 2wing3/4'”CarbideTippedcanaccommodatesmallerorlarger

Spindles: AlloySteelpolishedandgroundprecisionshafting

Frame: 2"SteelWithPowderCoatFinish

Covers: 10Gauge(1/8"Thick)Aluminumremovable

Dimensions: Height-60inches,Width-33inches,Depth-33inches

Shippingweight: 750lbs.-(Includingcrate)

MADEINAMERICABYAMERICANS

Experience High Output Roof Truss Production with our Roller Plant

The robust Roller Plant streamlines the assembly of roof trusses – combining technology, precision and efficiency to produce high quality trusses!

INCREASED PRODUCTION

EASE OF OPERATION REMOVES MANUAL HANDLING +

With the Roller Plant you’ll gain more than a press, you’ll get a whole truss manufacturing system that will make a world of difference to your production numbers!

• 4.0

• 230 Volt / 3 Phase

• Cutting Length: 14’ / Cutting Height:

• Automatic Mode: Plunge, Saw & Return with Variable Speed Control

• Top & Bottom Sawing Beams with Pneumatic Arrest

• Digital Horizontal Cutting with Motor-Driven Precision Adjustment

• Digital Longitudinal Stop with Fine Adjustment

• Pneumatic Support Grid

• Dust Extraction Port

• Like New Condition

• A 2016 COIMA FI6000 Dust Collector is available at additonal expense Panel Saw - $21,900 Dust Collector - $7,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

$15,399 Base FOB MN

Safety Speed Manufacturing Model 7400 XL Panel Saw Ready for long hours of accurately cutting OSB, fiberglass reinforced sheathing, and virtually any other sheathing material specified. The 7400 XL features a quiet 3 HP induction motor, 64 inch crosscut, 2 1/8″ maximum thickness, accuracy within 0.005 inches, 96" tall x 13-foot-wide welded steel frame with integrated stand and linear V-guides, enclosed counterweight system, adjustable vertical and horizontal rules. Quick changes from vertical to horizontal cutting. Includes machined aluminum material rollers, hold down bar, wheels, quick stop gauges and material hold downs. The 7400 XL is dust-collection-ready for easy connection. Options available include digital readouts for vertical cuts, laser guide, stop bar, dust vacuum and midway fence.

By the ROGworx Team

WCome Meet the ROGworx Badger

e know how great the Badger EWP Processing Center is, and now you can come see it in action too. We’re pleased to offer LIVE demos in Emporia, VA, Lavonia, GA, and Columbia, MO. Just contact us to schedule a tour. Here are a few reasons why you should check it out:

The Badger Doesn’t Play Favorites — You can run all brands of I-joists on the Badger. This gives you the flexibility and freedom to use the best product mix for your jobs. Run preoptimized cut files from BC Connect or Stellar, or use our ROGware optimizing software. Why limit yourself to one brand when you can cut them all?

Built For The Job — Engineered with heavy, precision-machined steel components, the Badger is a true heavy-duty machine designed to handle the most demanding materials without compromise. Its rugged, solid construction ensures exceptional strength and durability, so you can rely on it shift after shift, year after year. This saw is built to last.

CNC Router — Its integrated 3-axis CNC router makes utility cutouts effortless, handling round, rectangular, and oblong openings with precision and speed.

Inkjet Printer — You can label cut pieces in real time with sharp, high-contrast lettering on every pass. High-resolution printing clearly marks job name, part ID, and length for instant identification. Apply labels to one or both ends of the joist. It’s accurate, consistent, and built to keep production moving.

Controls — Import cut files in SawTek, Stellar, and ROGware formats for seamless operation. Its 24” touch-screen monitor runs Windows 11 for an intuitive HMI interface, and its full integration with Auto-Infeed, Auto-Outfeeds, and CNC Router upgrades ensures smooth system operation and scalability.

ROGware Equipment Management Software — With cloud-based control, you can effortlessly manage multiple facilities and production areas with a powerful, scalable solution designed for performance and precision. Import and manage load orders from multiple design files. Provide cleaner, more accurate cuts with built-in rounding rules. Automatically consolidate like parts to reduce redundancy. Easily assign parts across multiple workstations. Batch multiple orders for streamlined processing. Choose from multiple optimization strategies. Optimize using a variety of raw length inputs. Automatically return off-cuts to inventory.

Processing EWP doesn’t get better than this. Come meet the Badger.

$355,000 Location: MO

New, Monet DeSawyer 2000, computerized, five-bladed component saw, sets up in 15 to 17 seconds, can run in manual mode, downloads projects from a network or manually using display screen controls. Features all powered movements, cuts from 15" 90/90 cuts to 20 foot length, 2 x 3" to 2 x 12" lumber depths and internal brakes are standard. Options include enhanced servo controls featuring autocalibration, catcher's display and either shaker or belt scrap conveyor and incline. 440 volt, 3 phase electrical.

OPTIMIZE WITH THE INNOVATORS

REAL-TIME OPTIMIZATION IS HERE

Vekta’s innovative Real-Time Optimization software leverages decades of technology advancements and intelligent algorithm development to provide unparalleled flexibility and control of your cutting and production planning.

RTO is designed specifically to make considerable improvements to operational and material efficiencies in plants with a direct delivery system, but can also benefit smaller setups as well.

KEY FEATURES:

• SIMULTANEOUS OPTIMIZATION – instantly optimize multiple jobs across assembly stations, minimizing waste.

• REAL-TIME ADJUSTMENTS – adapt cutting volumes and flow to meet dynamic point-of-use demand.

• DECENTRALIZED INTERFACE – empower your operators with the ability to schedule zero-disruption recuts directly from the point-of-use. Load, adjust, reorder and reroute in real-time from any network device.

• MULTI-SAW MANAGEMENT – efficient single operator control of multiple saws, reducing labor requirements and costs.

• CONTINUOUS CUTTING LISTS – eliminate end-of-file waste through seamless job transitions, optimizing material usage.

Simply put, RTO is a comprehensive solution to provide significant improvements in productivity and waste reduction.

2006 Alpine Speed Rafter Cutter

• Simplified compound cutting for hip, valley and jack rafters (double & single compound cuts)

• Two Worm-Drive Circular Saws (110 Volt / 30 Amps)

• Saw Turntable (for angle cutting)

• Saw Carriage (for up to 45 degree bevel cutting)

• Infeed & Outfeed Roller Conveyor with Stands

$4,900 NOW $4,250 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Used - Metra Cut Radial Arm Saw (2x) Parts Machine

$500 – Make Offer

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com

Used - 2005 Model 305 Infeed Conveyor Designed for use with all component saws. To include: Soft Start ~ Soft Stop Inverter System. Programmable load sensing; Overload / Jamb sensing shut down feature. Gear motor providing conveyor speed of 36' per minute. Forward and reversing controls for location at both ends of conveyor unit. Material capacity range - 4' through 24' lumber. Chain deck pedestals 20' long with cross bracing. Staging area at the saw independent of the live deck system. 30,000lb. Deck capacity. Call for pricing

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

Safety Speed Manufacturing

Gypsum Cutter

Lose the dust and noise for processing material such as DensGlass®, or other gypsum products with the Safety Speed model VGC 515 cartridge cutting system. Easily process full sheets of gypsum wall panel sheathing of material in widths up to 64". Fully portable, and with NO power or air required, the VGC 515 is dust and noise free to easily score gypsum material that rolls effortlessly to an integral edge used for breaking scored material. Features blade cartridges for quick exchange in less than a minute and uses off-the-shelf utility knife blades. Includes two cutting/scoring cartridges, removable clamping bar, integral counterweight, both left & right measuring tapes, wheels for portability, free-standing 90" tall x 10-ft wide frame and 5-foot

Quick Stop system for accurate, repetitive cutting.$6,399 FOB MN Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2003 Koskovich Auto Omni Component Saw

• 5 Blade Automated Component Saw

• Cuts 2x3 through 2x12 from 11" to 20'-0"

• Computer, Enclosure & Stand

• Waste Conveyor (under saw)

• E xcludes Incline Waste Conveyor (adjacent to saw)

• Video available upon request

• Add $12,500 for 6 Chain Live Deck $16,500 NOW $14,900 FOB ND Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

The

NEW!

New SpeedWorx Automated Sheathing Station

Reduce labor and operator fatigue by taking advantage of the SpeedWorx automated vertical panel saw. This one-person station cuts wood sheathing sheets up to 50 inches x 10 feet, and up to 2-inch thickness, using a fast 1-button cutting setup with CNC accuracy to 1/32 of an inch (0.03125″). The usage of each sheet is optimized through automated sequencing. The photos of raw materials illustrate the drastic reduction of scrap material thanks to implementing the Rogworx saw station.

Visual user interface with standard ‘Auto Fill’ feature makes choosing the job and sheet-cutting order easy to determine. Files are downloadable allowing for minimum waste. Saw station reads WBX file format (Alpine) or EHX file format (MiTek) or CSV files with manipulation. System offers full optimization and sequence panel parts, looking ahead through the job based on your specification. The cutting chamber automatically switches from rip to cross-cutting. All this in a 100-square-foot footprint, approximately 25′ long x 4′ deep, so it can fit within existing facilities. Includes advanced dust collection. Integrated printing for labeling parts is available as an option (additional $14,000).

$143,500 (Base)

FOB MN

• High Performance Linear Feed Saw (Non-Beveling)

• H igh Performance L1 & L2 Motors and Gear Boxes

• Servo Blade Motor with 20.5" Blade

• Blade Motor was replaced in Late 2024

• Touchscreen Monitor

• Mattthews Ink Jet Printer

• 8' Automated Live Deck

• Outfeed Queue System

• Waste Conveyor

• 230 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes Dust Collector

• V ideo available upon request

• Price in in US Dollars

interface and Windows 10 O/S for direct input. The DeSawyer 2K Can operate in automated or manual input mode. (1) 10 h.p., 30″ diameter blade with PAE setup & (4) 5 h.p. 16″ diameter blades with center line setup. Mechanical backup counters and scales, powered chain infeed with upper hold-downs, and shaker pan waste conveyor (no scrape incline). 16″ blades cut angles from 3º to 115º, 30″ blade from 3º to 100º . Minimum 90/90 cut is 10 inches and shortest 4-angle cut is 18 inches. Cuts 2×4 through 2×12 lumber up to 20 feet in length. 480 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical 90 psi air required. (Seller reserves the right to decline sale based on buyer’s regional trade area).

New

Monet FWA 500 Floor Web Saw

New Monet 5-head, floor truss web saw, cuts 4-angle, 4×2 floor truss webs from 13 inches and 90-90 blocks from 7 inches, to 4 foot long maximum length. Features 10-board magazine feed, powered, fixedquadrant angulation, manual carriage standard, scrap conveyor and cut-off blade. Options available for longer carriage length, incline scrap conveyor, and choice of shaker or belt scrap conveyor. 440 volt, 3 phase, 60 Amp electrical. 50 PSI air at 5 CFM required. $83,000 FOB MO

www.woodtechsystems.com

• 10 Each - Standard 20 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 10" Platens (refurbished in 2011)

• 6 Each - 2011 Double 40 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 15" Platens

• 2 Each - 2021 Double 40 Ton Track Mounted Heads with 10" x 15" Platens

• 2 Each - 10 HP Two Stage Hydraulic Systems with Controls (230 Volt / 3 Phase)

• Track System for 55' Scissor & Flat Bottom Trusses

• 1 Each - Peak Head Track (perpendicular to base line)

• 2 Each - Movable Bottom Chord Tracks (to adjust for pitch)

• 8 Each - Floating Tracks for Top Chord Head

• Clamping Package: Peak, End Stop, Camber Stops & Air Clamps

• Air & Hydraulic Manifolds with Quick Connectors for Heads

• Pn eumatic Pop-Up Skatewheel Ejectors (for truss removal)

• 56' Powered Transfer Roller with Stands

• 26 Each - 14' Powered & Idle Exiting Rollers with Stands $89,900 NOW $59,900 FOB AR 765-751-9990

Profit Leaks Where Work Is Not Visible Enough to Control

When business gets tougher, hidden weaknesses stop being minor frustrations and start becoming profit leaks. Leaders cannot afford recurring quality issues, unclear job status, missed follow-up, or managers spending hours chasing information that should already be visible.

Most companies do not lose profit in one dramatic event. They lose it through delays, rework, poor handoffs, unreliable schedules, and follow-up that depends too much on memory. That is not just a communication problem. It is a cost problem.

When leaders look for cost reduction, they often start with labor, purchasing, overtime, or delayed investment. Those areas matter, but they are not always the root cause. In many operations, the real cost is weak visibility. Work is happening, people are busy, and managers are trying, yet the system still relies too much on verbal updates, disconnected files, spreadsheets, whiteboards, and individual effort.

The appropriate question is not, “What new system should we buy?” The better question is, “Where is the work becoming too hard to see, too hard to follow, or too hard to control?” That question moves leadership away from chasing symptoms and toward understanding the process problem underneath the cost.

Visibility Comes First

Good people working inside an unclear system still produce waste. When standards are buried, people guess. When follow-up is not visible, problems drift. When job status is unclear, schedules become unreliable. When departments rely on separate systems, managers spend too much time finding information rather than improving operations.

This is one of the core ideas behind my new book, Lean Manufacturing Made Obvious for Leaders: if the work matters, it should be visible. If the standard matters, it should be easy to follow. If the follow-up matters, it should not depend on someone remembering to ask.

Two Places Where Visibility Breaks Down

Before adding tools, leaders should look at where the operation is losing control. Most visibility problems fall into two practical areas: standards and controls or workflow coordination. One protects consistency. The other protects flow. Both affect cost, customer confidence, and net profit.

Standards and controls include quality checks, safety inspections, audit requirements, corrective actions, compliance reporting, training records, and internal procedures. When these items sit in paper, binders, PDFs,

Todd Drummond

spreadsheets, emails, or shared folders, they may technically exist, but they are not truly managing the work.

Workflow coordination includes projects, schedules, assignments, job status, handoffs, customer commitments, department communication, and capacity planning. When workflow is scattered across disconnected systems, everyone may be busy, but leadership still lacks a reliable view of what is ready, waiting, late, or blocked.

Visibility is not a soft improvement topic. It is a financial control issue. Furthermore, technology should not replace leadership thinking. It should make the clarified process easier to run, verify, and improve.

Turning Standards Into Daily Controls

During challenging times, companies cannot let quality, safety, compliance, inspections, and corrective actions drift. Most companies have forms, checklists, reports, procedures, and internal requirements. The problem is that too much of this information sits in static documents instead of driving daily action.

For example, QualityReports.ai supports the standards and controls side by turning existing reports, inspections, forms, and procedures into usable daily controls. Written documents can be digitized into digital forms, inspection tools, alerts, dashboards, and follow-up systems.

That makes inspections, reminders, corrective actions, and reports easier to use in daily operations. Employees gain clearer expectations, supervisors gain better follow-up, and leaders gain better evidence before small issues become repeated problems.

The deeper issue is not reporting, it’s control. Reporting should help the company manage the work, not simply document what already went wrong.

Turning Workflow Into a Shared Source of Truth

Once standards and follow-up are clearer, the next major cost driver is workflow coordination. Jobs still need to move, projects need to be scheduled, assignments need to be clear, and customers need reliable answers. Sales, administration, design, production, shipping, installation, and leadership need the same version of the truth.

This is where many companies struggle. Everyone is busy, but work is still late. People put in effort, but handoffs remain weak. Managers ask for updates, but the answer depends on who they ask. Schedules exist, but people do not fully trust them.

This is where AppWright fits into the workflow side by bringing projects, tasks, schedules, assignments, and job status into one connected system. More of the company can then work from a single shared source of truth.

When leaders see status sooner, they act sooner. When employees know their assignments, they lose less time waiting. When schedules reflect real work status, promises become more reliable. When departments work from the same system, fewer jobs fall into the cracks. That is not software convenience. That is operational control.

The Executive Question

A common mistake is believing a tool will fix a process that leadership has not clarified. Software can make a good process easier to manage, but it can also make a bad process more expensive and harder to unwind. Leaders should begin with the problem. Ask these questions: Where are people waiting? Where does follow-up disappear? Where does job status become unreliable? Where are customers asking for answers the company should already know?

Once leaders answer those questions, selecting the right tools becomes easier. QualityReports. ai fits when standards, inspections, reporting, alerts, compliance, corrective actions, and repeated issue visibility need better control. AppWright fits when project status, scheduling, assignments, handoffs, job tracking, and department-to-department workflow need one connected system.

During challenging times, cost reduction should not only mean cutting people, delaying investment, or asking everyone to work harder. That often creates more strain without fixing the system. The better executive question is simple: Where are we losing money because the work is not visible enough to control?

Start there. Walk the process. Look for where people wait, where managers chase, where follow-up disappears, and where customers ask questions the company should already know how to answer. That answer usually tells leaders where to begin: strengthen the standard, clarify the workflow, or fix both.

If your operation feels harder than it should, there is usually a reason. The answer is not to add more pressure, more meetings, or ask good people to work around unclear systems. The answer is clarity.

Todd Drummond Consulting helps manufacturers identify what is limiting performance, whether it starts with workflows, labor visibility, capacity planning, training, scheduling, handoffs, or leadership decisions. With nearly 40 years of manufacturing experience and almost 25 years as a full-time consultant, I bring practical guidance that helps leaders simplify work, improve flow, reduce waste, protect margins, and move forward with confidence. Check out my Testimonials of Services for comments from my clients.

Reinvest In What Works Best For Your Business!

Rebuilt Machinery!

Don’t let aging equipment slow you down. With Eide’s Machinery Exchange, breathe new life into your trusted truss manufacturing machines. We specialize in complete upgrades and reconditioning, transforming outdated or discontinued equipment into like-new performers.

Since 1927, Eide has been your partner in productivity; offering the right equipment, parts, services, and support to keep your business thriving. Contact Eide Today to discuss how we can help you upgrade, recondition, and optimize your operations!

Comprehensive Rebuilds: Everything mechanical is replaced, including controls, electrical, and drive systems.

Superior Warranty: Warranty on an exchange meets or exceeds the original OEM coverage.

No Downtime: Keep your old machine running until your new machine arrives.

Expert Installation & Training Available: Seamless integration and skilled operator training for a confident start.

Rediscover the potential in your machinery!

Alpine EasyRider

Robbins No Rail

Klaisler Recessed

Alpine Finish Press

MiTek TOF

Klaisler Finish Press

• 14’ x 24” Diameter Gantry Roller (Model 14RT)

• 7 1/2 HP Motor (208 Volt / 3 Phase)

• 14’ x 64’ Steel Slotted Top Table with End Eject Rollers (Raised Track)

• Park Section and Uplift Ramp Section

• Wizard (GEN 1) Automated Jigging (32 Rails)

• Add $40,000 2005 Pacific Automation 14’ Finish Roller

• Prices are in US Dollars

• 4 Pedestal Peak-Up Stacker (stack

• Crash Bar/Target (for

• Motor was recently replaced

• 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes Truss Conveyor

FOB

Increase Your Market Share by Adding Floor Truss Manufacturing

We have a range of products suitable for floor truss manufacturing and we offer floor truss solutions customized to your requirements too! Choose from side or end eject options to suit your operation and space.

Get in touch to learn more about adding floor trusses to your production line and how it could benefit your factory!

Baumeister Lumber Splicer

• Vertical Hydraulic Press with 3"x 12" Platen Size

• 2x3 and 2x4 Lumber Material (3" x 10" maximum plate size)

• Magnetic Platens to hold plates in the correct position

• Working Pressure: 1600 PSI

• Dual press cycle activation for safety

• 208, 240 or 480 Volt / 3 Phase (10 HP)

• Video available upon request

• Excludes: Infeed/O utfeed Roller Conveyor

• Optional 2x6 Capacity (up to 16" long plate) Splicer is available

Call for pricing FOB PA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

• 12’ Long x 18” Diameter Rollers

• Front and Rear Safety Bars

• Adjustable Roller Height (1 1/2” and 3 1/2”)

$14,900 NOW $13,900 FOB IA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

EMSI Field Repair Press

EMSI 10 Ton Field Repair Truss Press

System. Complete with: 1/2 HP, 115 Volt, 50/60 Cycle Universal Motor – Operates at voltage as low as 60 volts. 10,000 PSI Portable Power Pack with Two Speed Operation – 200 cu in/min @ 0–200 psi, 20 cu in/min @ 200–10,000 psi and Externally Adjustable Relief Valve (unit weight 55 lbs.). C-Clamp Assembly with 8" Maximum Reach, 4" x 5" Pressing Platen (optional platen available for 4” x 2”). Independent 10 Ton Hydraulic Cylinder. 10’ Hydraulic Hose Assembly with Quick Disconnect Coupling. Handle with 24 Volt Remote Electrical Pendant.

Call for Price Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193 www.eidemachinery.com Four Eagle Production Presses with Jig Table

• (4) Eagle Production Presses (1 new in 2023, 2 with new pumps within the last 3 years, 1 with older Simplex motor)

• (2) TP300 C-Clamps (Roof & Floor Trusses)

• (2) TP600 C-Clamps (Extra Throat Depth for 2x8 & 2x10 Roof Trusses)

• 25 Ton Cylinder

• 5 1/4" x 6 1/4" Platen

• 220 Volt / 1 Phase

• Jig Table

• (2) 40' Steel Beams

• (4) Beam Trolleys

$37,500 FOB CO Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Floor Truss Machine

End-eject floor machine with floor finish roller press, 40-ft working length, builds 12″ to 24″ deep 4×2 floor trusses. Clamping is ontable air cylinders with toggle controls. Includes idler roll leading to floor finish press. Gantry press head has a 7 HP drive motor. Includes electrical panel and inverter installed in 2024. Needs safety bar repairs. Model RF2300. Made in the Czech Republic. Floor finish press, 12″ diameter rolls, 5 HP motor.

The TruStance Pedestal Jig System was developed to solve the problems associated with pedestal jig systems, while retaining and enhancing all the advantages. The system features track mounted pedestals with a track and lockdown design, movable pedestals, and a roller lift assembly. The pedestal tops are 30″ above the floor, creating a comfortable working height. The ability to configure the system in a very small footprint makes it ideal for any size truss plant. It is designed to use with a ‘C-clamp’ type press.

With the ability to install the interchangeable crossmembers and angle iron stops on both track mounted and movable pedestals, the system can be configured to meet the needs of even the most complicated truss designs.

Movable pedestals can be moved and locked down efficiently; the 4″ thick steel base provides the weight needed to keep them in position.

Bottom chord pedestals are installed on the steel track mounted to the floor. Pedestals are easy to move and rigidly lock into place with threaded rod locks.

The optional air activated roller lift assembly raises the truss above the jig to be easily ejected. Its versatile design allows it to be configured for any set-up.

TruStance recommends a (16) pedestal system for roof trusses to 60-ft in span. 120 volt, 1 phase, 20 Amp electrical required. 50 PSI air required.

New Replacement 14' x 24" Roll for Finish Roller

• 14' Long x 24" Diameter Roll

• .0969" Wall Thickness

• 3 7/16" Shaft (keyed at each end)

• Taper Lock Bushings to Secure the Shaft (no welding & easy to replace)

$15,900 FOB PA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

C-clamp system with strut table, 48-ft maximum span, 14-ft maximum height trusses. Includes 48-ft of stand-alone strut frames, (3) complete boom sub-assemblies with hydraulic fluid reservoirs, (1) boom sub-assembly for parts, (1) ’07 MiTek TK8 clamp with 8″ throat, (1) ’12 MiTek TK6 clamp with 6″ throat, (2) ’23 Eagle TP-300 clamps, and one Eagle clamp for parts. Includes any available spare motors, strut / strut extenders and hardware. Decommissioned January 2025. The MiTek presses are 110 volt, 1-phase. The Eagle presses are 220 volt, 1-phase.

$37,997 FOB TN Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

1998 Pacific Automation Auto 8 Press

1998 Pacific Automation model Auto 8 beam press table: 8’ x 40’ system specifically designed for smaller trusses. The Auto 8 is a fully integrated hydraulic press capable of handling 2” x 4” and 4” x 2” trusses with no adjustment. System includes plastic building surface with wood underlayment, riding operator platform with joystick control, heavy duty 15 HP hydraulic drive system and 2′ x 9′-10″ x 1¼” thick steel platen. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required. Please view video below

New Baumeister DuraPress

Finish Roller

• 24” Diameter x 14’ Long Rollers (custom lengths available)

• Removable Shaft Replacement in Rolls

• Simplified Roll Height Adjustment

• Front &

• 14' Long x 4" or 5" (Inside Diameter) Schedule 40 Pipe

• Tube Steel Stands (7" Height Adjustment - Height to be Specified)

• 4 Bolt Flange Bearings

• Idle and Motorized Rollers

• 1/4 HP Motors (240/480 Volt-3 Phase) with Controls

• 1" and 1 1/4" Cold Rolled 24" Shafts Baffled

• 6 to 8 Week Delivery

By Dr. Zach Hubbs

SAligning Paragon’s Leadership for Growth

tepping into the CEO role at Paragon comes at an interesting moment, both for our company and for the building components industry as a whole.

Paragon recently turned ten years old. In software, especially software aimed at a domain as technically demanding as structural components, most of the work in the early years happens well before the market ever sees the product. That was us for a long time. But, the last two years have been different. We’ve moved out of the build-it phase and into growth — and growth asks different things of a company than development does. This leadership transition is how we’re answering those questions.

My role as CEO is primarily outward-facing for growth, partnerships, and helping more of the industry benefit from what we’re building. John Holland’s role as President and CTO will stay focused where his strengths have always been most powerful: the product, the software engineering team, and the technical work that has defined Paragon from day one. This is not a change of direction, but rather a sharpening of it.

The timing matters because the building components industry is in the middle of change. Component manufacturers are wrestling with practical questions about labor, margin, succession, and how fast to adopt new technology. The answers individual companies land on will shape the next decade of this industry significantly.

Component design and manufacturing software is getting genuinely more capable. AI is advancing quickly. Workflows that used to live in separate silos are starting to connect. The manufacturers willing to adapt have a real chance to improve how structural components are designed, built, and delivered — all on their own terms.

Before Paragon, I spent years running a lumber and building materials business. I know what it’s like to operate in a market where relationships carry weight, margins are tight, and every operational decision lands on somebody’s truck or jobsite. That experience shapes how I think about software now. Our goal isn’t to sell software, but rather help our customers run stronger businesses. Technology earns its keep when it sharpens decisions, frees up people, and makes the business more efficient, not when it adds another login to somebody’s morning.

This lens shapes how I think about growth. Growth is about stronger partnerships with the manufacturers we work with, a deeper ability to help them navigate what’s changing, and a wider sense of what’s possible for their operations. I’d argue trust gets more important as technology gets faster.

Partnership is going to be central to Paragon’s next phase — partnerships both with our customers and across the wider ecosystem of people who care about moving this industry forward. The best outcomes in any business come from people with complementary strengths pulling in the same direction.

We have an exceptional team. We have a platform built for a moment when agility matters. And we’re operating in a period where the technology underneath our industry is shifting in ways that will reshape what’s possible. John’s transition gives him room to go deeper on the technical side, particularly as AI starts to change what software can do for a component manufacturer. Mine gives me room to focus on making sure the value of that work reaches more of the industry.

Both roles matter and both are needed. Put together, they position Paragon well for what’s next.

What truly excites me most about this transition is the expanded capacity for connection and collaboration we now have. As we look ahead, we are committed to forging stronger ties, not just through our products, but through direct conversation.

Part of that effort is seen by our interview video series, The Common Chord. This platform is designed to connect with our peers and customers across the industry, inviting dialogue and shared learning. We are genuinely looking forward to partnering together with other leaders and innovators across the wider ecosystem to understand, discuss, and ultimately create innovative solutions to the biggest challenges component manufacturers face, from labor and technology adoption to margin pressures. This is an industry defined by relationships, and by working alongside those who care about moving this industry forward, we can ensure that Paragon’s work is constantly grounded in real-world needs.

Paragon was founded with a clear goal: to bring greater openness, flexibility, and capability to the design and manufacturing of structural building components. The industry is moving toward better tools, more connected workflows, and more intelligent features, with rising expectations around speed, collaboration, and transparency. We’re building to meet that. There’s a great deal ahead: for Paragon, for our customers, and for this industry. In a lot of ways, we’re just getting started.

• 2 Each - Tee-Lok 14' x 18" Diameter Gantry Rollers with Ride Platform

• Gantry Floor Rail with Table Support

• 15 Each - Tee-Lok 8' x 14' Drilled & Tapped Steel Top Tables (stored outside)

• Roof Truss Jig Hardware

• Skatewheel Ejectors (between tables)

• Skatewheel Receivers (between truss rollers)

• Tee-Lok 14' x 24" Diameter Finish Roller (stored outside)

• Excludes Inside & Outside Truss Rollers

• Available Early May

• Video available upon request

1987 Alpine RAM Roof Gantry Line with 1995 2nd Head

1987 Alpine tracked roof truss gantry with 1995 second gantry press head: 14′ x 151-ft working length system includes (1) 1987 14-ft x 18-inch diameter gantry head with 5 HP motor, (1) 1995 Alpine model 700 RAM Roll-AMaster gantry head, 14-ft x 18-inch diameter roll and 5 HP motor, (21) 14-ft x 67-inch wide tables with slotted steel tops and skatewheel ejectors, (21) receiving arms, (313) feet of crane rail, all available aisle pads & hardware, and electrical bus bar supply. 208 volt, 3 phase, 21.5 Amps electrical required for each press head. Center conveyor and finish press shown in some of the photos are not included.

$211,993

NY

HUNDEGGER

lnnovationen fur den Holzbau

HUNDEGGER

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR TRUSS MANUFACTURING WITH THE HUNDEGGER TD-II

Don't get left behind. Invest in the future with true automation from Hundegger and see your business thrive.

Teelok 115-ft Side-eject Roof Gantry Line

Teelok Roof Gantry -115-ft working length, side-eject system with (18) Tee-Slot tables 6×14′ each, (2) Tee-Lok 14’x18″ dia. roller gantries, (2) 6×8-ft slotted steel parking stations that can be used to build heel conditions, (2) end masts, festoon electrical supply cable and any available jigging hardware. Tables are slotted steel with skate wheel ejectors. Four of the tables are missing ejectors. The center conveyor system and transfer roll shown in some of the photos are not included. 230 / 460 volt 3 phase electrical required.

$280,000 FOB AB

• 14' x 24" Diameter Gantry Roller (Model 14RT)

• 7 1/2 HP Motor (208 Volt / 3 Phase)

• 14' x 72' Steel Slotted Top Table with Side Eject Skatewheel Ejectors (Raised Track)

• (2) 5'-6" Park Sections

• Wizard (GEN 1 and GEN 2) Automated Jigging (36 Rails) with Computer/Cabinet

• Excludes: Exiting Truss Conveyor/Receivers and Finish Roller

• Add $40,000 for Used Pacific Automation Finish Roller

• Prices are in US Dollars

80′ Side Eject Klaisler Tracked gantry System

80′ Side Eject Klaisler Tracked gantry System – 80′ working length side eject gantry system includes (19) 56″ x 14′ plastic top tables, (2) 24″ diameter gantry rollers, Klaisler model #: TR214-24, 14-ft final roller with 24″ diameter rolls, and rail track.

$83,893

FOB KY

www.woodtechsystems.com

Klaisler 40′ Floor Truss Gantry

Klaisler Floor Truss Machine with riding platform and 24″ dia. roller. Builds trusses up to 40′ in length. Side-eject, push-button controls with riding operator’s platform. Twin 5 h.p. gear-drive systems, raised crane rail, 230v, 3 phase, with dual-safety bars.

$44,997

FOB KY

New Monet DeSawyer ESC (Servo Controlled) Component Saw

Monet DeSauw model Desawyer ESC enhanced servo-controlled ( ESC) component saw with touch screen user interface with backup mechanical controls. Includes three operating modes: Auto (download setups from LAN or USB), Semi-auto (touch screen setup entry), and Manual (backup push-button switches for powering all movements). Includes over-travel protection, comprehensive setup screens, auto sequencing, auto-calibration and pneumatic brakes on all five () blades. One (1) 30” blade and four (4) 16” blades. Manual cut limits are 18” min., 11” min. square edge blocks, 20’ max cut. Belt under-saw waste conveyor. Voltage: 480 volt/3 phase/60 Amp. Air: 50 PSI at 5 CFM. One-year warranty included. Can be paired with a model PD-6 lumber feed system at an additional cost. Heavy duty 80 RIV chain feed system. 16’ wide x 20’ long x 36” deck height. Transfers 3’ to 20’ lumber. Includes auto-feed control, foot pedal override, forward & reverse, variable speed control with HD double-bearing construction. Other additional-cost options include, inkjet marking, label printing, backside screen display, spare blades and incline scrap conveyor.

$386,000 FOB MO

By Gerhard (Garry) Roehr, P.Eng.

Take a HyperLeap with AMT Robotics

Last month, I introduced our Datum Squaring Table. This month, I’d like to focus on our HyperLeap Sheathing Bridge. You’ll find that our modular approach allows you to install the machine that best suits your current needs while giving options to expand your capacity and further automate in the future. Being an owner in the All-Fab Group for almost 30 years, I learned the best ideas often come from factories that have space and budget constraints. Some of our design criteria to provide the best long-term solutions while keeping costs down listed below

• You don’t save labor unless a Sheathing Bridge is fully automated.

• Nailing heads that hold two mega coils mean multiple coils can be reloaded at the same time.

• A bridge should be capable of being installed over an existing wooden or steel table – many customers already have a squaring table or love the flexibility that comes with a wooden table.

• A bridge should be able to accept additional tooling in the future so you can add functions and capacity as needed.

Here are two examples on how we deliver affordable automation. Customer A – Enjoys building all kinds of shapes and sizes on their existing wood or steel table but nailing the sheathing by hand slows down production, is hard on the back, and results in missed studs and inconsistent spacing. Solution – An AMT Bridge over an existing table can drive sheathing nails into tall walls, rake walls, and floor cassettes spun 90 degrees to standard walls. ROI with improved capacity, productivity, and quality is less than 2 years on one shift. More heads can be added as needed.

Customer B – Has an AMT Bridge and wants to increase capacity. Solution – An AMT Datum Squaring Table with powered conveyor, auto clamping, and multi-panel staging saves more labor and propels growth. After framing the wall and tacking the sheathing, the panel is pushed onto the start of the powered conveyor and moves down the line where it waits in the buffer zone. When the previous panel ejects from the sheathing station, it then moves to the end stop, is squared and clamped, and the sheathing bridge resumes its work without any operator intervention. When done, the panel ejects onto roller conveyors to be stacked onto a bundle. ROI is 2–3 years on one shift. Adding heads further improves line speed and ROI.

Reach out when you’re ready to eliminate your sheathing bottleneck.

Roof Truss, Floor Truss & Wall Panel Plant

• 300' x 80' Building & Adjacent Land (for sale or lease)

• Used CMF 14' x 60' Roller Gantry System

• Powered Transfer Roller & Powered Exiting Conveyor

• Reconditioned Klaisler Finish Roller

• Outside Non-Powered Conveyor

• 2025 3 Head SL Laser Truss Projection System

• 2025 ASI Automated Truss Saw

• 2022 Spida Automated Apollo Saw

• Used CMF Trackless Floor Truss Machine

• 2022 Complete Wall Panel Line (Component Table, Framing Table with Panel Bridge, Conveyor)

• 2022 Craneveyor Crane System with Electric Hoist & Wall Panel Lift

• 2022 Spida Ink Jet Plate Marker

• 2024 Lakeside 40' Gooseneck Roll-Off Trailer

• Material Carts & Wall/Truss Dollies

• Located in Edmond, OK (north side of Oklahoma City)

New TruStance Portable Plate Press

This is the first, self-contained, truly portable repair unit used to press metal truss plates into dimensional lumber at virtually any location. Wood component (roof and floor truss) manufacturers, as well as builders, frequently require a tool to repair metal plate connected, wood truss components. The complete unit is mounted to a wagon built from square tubular steel. Extremely compact at only 28” wide and about 32” long the wagon features four wheels on soft-rubber solid tires, and a steering axle on the front with a handle that makes the unit easily maneuverable. The wagon contains the hydraulic power unit and an area for a portable gas generator. A rack in the back securely stores the C clamp, a standard 25′ hydraulic hose, and an electric power-supply cable.

The clamp is manufactured from T1 steel, cut into a C-shape with a steel tube welded to the front that securely holds the hydraulic cylinder. Pressing is easily performed with a 4×4 magnetized steel platen that holds and presses the truss connecter plates. The C-clamp that weighs less than 30 pounds, features a throat that opens to 4-1/2” inches to accept either 4 x 2 or 2 x 4 lumber. It has a push on and release off switch to cycle the unit. A 10,000-psi electric-overhydraulic power unit pumps hydraulic fluid through a 10,000-psi hose to activate a 10-ton hydraulic cylinder with a 3.9 inch stroke. The unit can be powered by 120v electric power or an optional 120v, 2200-amp (output), gasoline powered Honda generator, which can also act as a portable power supply out in the field for other singlephase equipment.

• Pressing Capability: 4.5” throat opening presses 2×4 through 4×2, includes a standard 25-foot, HD 10,000 PSI hose, with a 10 TON, 4”x4” magnetized pressing platen.

• Electric/Hydraulic: SPX Hydraulic Technologies – Rockford, IL USA 10,000 PSI / 700 BAR. 10 ton pressing capability

• Power Source: The unit is powered by a standard 120v/15 amp electric power or an optional 120v, gasoline powered Honda generator with 2200-watt output capability, which can also act as a portable power supply for other single-phase equipment.

• Warranty: One year from date of purchase on manufactured unit, OEM warranties on hydraulic and optional gas motor $11,800 FOB

• 2 Each - Klaisler 14' Gantry Roller with Safety Bars

• Klaisler 14' x 24" Diameter Finish Roller

• 25 19 Each - 4' x 14' Plastic Top Tables with Skatewheel Ejectors

• 178 LF of Floor Rail

• Excludes:

As-Is, Where-Is Set of (2) 30 mW

LAP Lasers. Includes mounting brackets, distribution box, projector cables, remote control, and all available system hardware and instructions. 30 mW lasers are better suited to Canadian facilities, but could work in a US location with some additional steps due to regulations. $39,890 FOB BC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• Klaisler Model GR1424 Gantry Roller

• Re cessed Floor Mounted Rail

• (5) 6' x 14' WEG-IT Tables with Ejectors

• 460 Volt / 3 Phase

• Excludes: Inside Exiting Conveyor, Finish Roller & Outside Conveyor

• Price in US Dollars

Clark Floor Truss Jig

The Clark floor truss jig allows for on-table building of floor trusses for hydraulic press tables. The jig has pneumatic clamping and allows you to build floor trusses from 10″ to 24″ in depth up to 40 ft. long.

$5,990 FOB OH

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Gang Nail Mark V Press & Table

• Gang Nail Mark V 50 Ton Press with 2' x 14' Platen

• 15 HP / 480 Volt / 3 Phase

• Floor Track & Kicklegs

• 13'-10" x 104'-10" Table (Steel Plate with Plastic Top & Unistrut Jig Rails)

• The buyer to help in dismantle/load the equipment

$35,000 FOB OH Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

• 24” Diameter x 14’ Long Rollers (custom lengths

• Removable Shaft Replacement in Rolls

• Simplified Roll Height Adjustment

• Reconditioned Mitek RoofGlider 14' x 24" Diameter Gantry Roller (Trackless)

• Ride Platform & Joystick Control

• 10 Each - Reconditioned 76" Slotted Top Tables with New Skatwheel Ejectors

• New Roof Truss Jig Hardware

• 2 Each - New Park Sections

• Excludes: Powered Transfer Roller, Powered Exiting Conveyor & Outside Conveyor/Stacker (available at additonal cost)

• Add $47,500 for Reconditioned 14' x 24" Diameter Finish Roller

Processes 16-ft long

material via a 16-ft long infeed and 16-ft long outfeed conveyor, material pusher, PC and enclosure. The PF90 has the potential to mark each component with critical information that speeds the layout and assembly process. System automatically pushes the lumber from the load position to each cut position and signals the saw to make the cut. Primary saw has had new drive belts, ram valves, touchscreen monitor and print heads installed. Includes second PF-90, located inside of the modified 40-ft high-cube container, can be used for parts.

$25,997 FOB AZ

Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

$13,900

• 8' to 12' Wall Heights

• 1,000 Lb Capacity

• Weight: 120 Lbs

• Excludes: Electric Hoist & Freestanding Bridge Crane

$1,950 FOB NE

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2024 Panels Plus Squaring Station – B

This station (model PP55015) is designed to hold a framed wall panel square while sheathing is applied and manually tacked in place. Standard table has a capacity for clamping walls from 16′ L to 12’4″ wall height and materials from 2×4 through 2×12. Telescoping function is operated by foot-pedal or push-button controls. This Squaring Station was never installed.

$42,750 FOB FL

2024 Panels Plus Squaring Station – A

DO SOMETHING BRILLIANT WITHOUT HAVING TO BANG YOUR HEAD AGAINST THE WALL.

Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack . This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

ProStack

By: DAK Automation

Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So, free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. Contact us to learn more today. For a ProStack demonstration video, scan the QR code below.

By Jeff Haider

Building Future Builders and Truss Designers

Many of us have sought ways to help grow the next generation of builders, and I’m fortunate to work with a local program doing just that. The Bakken Area Skills Center (BASC) in Watford City, ND is committed to empowering individuals through career and technical education, fostering a skilled workforce that meets the evolving needs of our region.

In late March, I attended an Advisory Committee meeting for the Building Trades Program at BASC. We met with instructor Mark Wilson and several of the program’s students for a tour of a house they are building in their impressive skills center. Their program actually began with building sheds, but Mark had a much greater vision for what they could accomplish. On display was the program’s first house being built by the students.

Due to space constraints, the house is being built in three sections, but their focus on quality is undeniable. In addition to being built offsite in a controlled environment, the program is utilizing high quality materials donated or provided at low to no cost from multiple suppliers. Indeed, this house has been made possible thanks to many partnerships in the community including the McKenzie County Job Development Authority (JDA). Once completed, this house, and future houses, will be used to provide affordable housing in Watford City.

Building homes not only provides the community with affordable housing, it is giving these students much needed workforce development to get them into the construction industry where a huge workforce shortage is occurring.

I feel that it is up to all of us in the industry to partner with places like BASC and give our support to help get more youth into the trades. WB Components partners with a lumberyard in Watford City (Elite Cabinets and Building Supply) to help supply the trusses to BASC. We’ve recognized that new truss designers don’t grow on trees and need to be developed. By providing hands-on training and real-world experience, BASC ensures that students are not just educated, but are fully prepared to contribute to the local economy as skilled, competent professionals. Maybe one of these professionals will be WB’s next truss designer or at the very least be installing our products in the future.

Inspired by ten years of intensive field experience and the ample and detailed feedback of numerous customers, we’re pleased to introduce the most advanced, most enhanced and high-performance Terminailer yet - Terminailer V.8. Drawing on invaluable time in the trenches closely evaluating Terminailer’s performance under varying conditions, our engineers have incorporated critical learning and insight to enhance simplicity, performance and operator control. Just part of what V.8 offers includes:

•Vastly enhanced operator control for even greater productivity

•A redesigned nail-feed supplying EverWin PN90-PAL industrial nail guns

•Simplified pneumatics featuring direct air-supply to all six nail guns

•Even more sub-component profiles for wall design flexibility

•Rugged durability with pharmaceutical grade assembly

Developed by people who know well the mechanics, safety considerations and business aspects of wall panel production, Terminailer V.8 combines more enhancements & operator-friendly features than ever to take your productivity to the next level and beyond. Contact us to learn even more and to put the V.8 performance in motion at your facility.

• Model FX-1000

• 2 Person Operation

• Programmable Fastener Patterns

• Laser Pointer for Stud Location

• Sensors to Detect Sheathing

• 120 Volt / 1 Phase / 4 Amps

• Pa slode Model P275C Coil Nailer

• Video available upon request $35,000 FOB OH Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates. com

Saws

• Automated Component & Linear Saws (2010 & Newer)

• Monet DeSauw or TimberMill Manual Component Saws

• Floor Web Saws

• Spida (Apollo) Saws with Truss Automation

• Bunk Cutters

Truss Equipment

• Roller Gantry & Hydraulic Press Systems

• Finish Rollers

• Truss Stackers

• Floor Truss Machines

• Lumber Splicers

• Jack Tables

• C-Clamp Presses

TheJobLine.COM

Trucks & Trailers

• Stretch Roll-Off Trailers

• Go oseneck Roll-Off Trailers

Modular Equipment

• Pacific Automation or MiTek Mobile Home Press Contact Wasserman & Associates for a Fair Market Value Assessment of your Used Equipment

Operational, Needs Work, and Parts Only equipment will be considered!

Pointer

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(3) Circa 2000 Triad Gen 1 Framing Stations

Circa 2000 Triad Generation 1 wall panel framing stations. Three (3) available at this location. Each includes power telescoping height adjustment and air lift-outs (no tools or tool dollies). Builds 2×4 or 2×6 walls to 20′-1″, from 6′-4″ to 12′-3″ height. 120vac, 1 phase electrical required. 100 psi air

$12,997 FOB NY Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

New Panels Plus Wall Panel Framing Equipment

Consider Panels Plus wall panel assembly equipment for manufacturers of wood or steel wall panels, floor-panels, and related framing components. Panels Plus is an employee owned, ISO certified, manufacturing company that builds state-of-the-art equipment featuring durable construction, with fit and finish second to none in the structural building component industry. The referenced base framing table allows you to assemble from 7-12 foot wall heights, at industry standard 16 foot lengths, at a working height of 29 to 32 inches. This framer design includes controls at each end of table, squaring stops and pneumatic clamping for consistent wall panel quality. Frames 2x4 or 2 x 6 walls, with color-coded, steel stud locators at 16 and 24 inches O.C. spacing. Includes pop-up skate wheels for easy transfer of completed wall frame. Framing table can be configured to receive wall framing light bars, other options include custom buildable wall heights, lengths and auto-indexing of optional 2 or 3 tool carriages.

Additionally from Panels Plus are sheathing tables with features that include foot pedal control at squaring end of table, with squaring stops, roller conveyors at both sides, single pendant controls for bridge, tool spacing at 6 inch centers with 3 inch bridge shift for offset nailing. Tool bridges can accommodate from 2 x 4 to 2 x 8 walls, with seam tilt being standard equipment Panels Plus Tool Bridges are available with single beam or dual beam design for two different tool mounts on one bridge. Squaring stations, sub-component tables, conveyors and panel lifts are also available to complete the configuration of the wall panel assembly line. Price includes factory installation and training. 50 CFM at 120 psi air. 120 or 230 volt, 1 phase electrical.

ProStack Wall Panel Tilt In-Feed Conveyor

Solving the problem of missed fasteners on exterior sheathing remains one of the primary reasons for call back charges and exceptions noted during jobsite building inspections. Clearly finding and resolving missed fasteners or “shiners” becomes mission critical before a sheathed wall panel leaves the production line. Our shop-proven, tilting conveyor makes the process safe, fast, and labor efficient. The ProStack tilt in-feed safely lifts wall segments to 45º in 5 seconds for inspection and on to 75º for easy to reach repairs. This tilt system is also excellent for installing blocking , windows, and other details in your wall panel segments. More information click here. 72,665 FOB ND

$37,525 FOB ND

ProStack Wall Panel In-Feed Conveyor

ProStack powered in-feed conveyor was engineered to deliver wall panel segments at a matched speed and height into the ProStack automated wall panel stacker. Built for smooth operation and assembled with laser cut, powder-coated finish steel. Base model conveys wall panel segments up to 12’ in height and up to 16’ in length for wall segments up to 1,600 lbs. Extended length systems come in standard 20′ and 24’ length capacity. All models come with adjustable working heights and variable conveyor speeds.

Powered in-feed conveyor section, synchronized chain drive under top and bottom plate for open access, 5-HP, 208v, 3Ph power. Adjustable working height from 28” to 34”. 16′ length capacity.

The Industry-Leading Manufacturer of Panelized Wall Panel & Floor Cassette Equipment.

WOOD WALL FRAMING STATION WITH LOCATORS

The Framing Station with Locators is designed to hold the plates, subcomponents, and studs squarely in place for fastening to ensure quality panels every time. This model is ideal for companies that manufacture wood wall panels, such as off-site building manufacturers, manufactured home builders, and modular builders.

The Panels Plus panelized wall panel systems are more ergonomic than traditional construction methods and are developed at an ergonomic working height. This eliminates the need to continually kneel or hunch over to build wall panels.

We create transformative website and app experiences

Since 2006, we've been helping businesses of all kinds build their online presence. We make websites and software for the construction industry to empower companies to reach a wider customer base and engage their audiences. Companies all around the world work with us to make websites and apps that people actually want to use. Reach out to Wolf X Machina if you're a business and you want a website that actually drives results.

WOLF X MACHINA www.wolfxmachina.com info@wolfxmachina.com

Fitzgerald Group, LLC

a blending of excellent services and products, with answers that work...!©

Not producing the results you need or want – getting conflicting info about what to do and the equipment and the systems you may need?

Before you Buy - Ask yourself –do I need a salesman or a guide?

If you want an Independent Guide that has your bottom-line results as the #1 priority, Call Me. If the salesman will do - we'll talk later...

Also, don't let Financing Deals influence your best solution. FitzGroup can arrange – Zero down & No payments for 90 Days!

Who’s Ghosting Who?

Ghosting has become a common occurrence, but in the hiring world, it carries real consequences. At its core, ghosting happens when one party simply stops responding, even though a level of engagement had been established. In the building components manufacturing industry, and in my role as a recruiter, communication and timing are critical, so this breakdown is more than frustrating. It is costly, disruptive, and ultimately unprofessional.

From the employer’s perspective, the frustration is easy to understand. A candidate goes through an initial email conversation, maybe even a full phone or video interview. The discussion is positive. The employer sees a fit and expresses interest in moving forward, and the candidate is also very interested. Then, without warning, the candidate disappears. Emails go unanswered. Calls are not returned. What looked like a strong hire is suddenly gone.

In many cases, the employer feels they were only steps away from bringing that person on board. They may have already started internal discussions, adjusted workload expectations, or even slowed down conversations with other candidates. When that candidate goes dark, it forces the employer to restart the process, often under tighter timelines and added pressure.

Now flip the perspective. A candidate invests time preparing for an interview, participates in discussions, and receives positive feedback. The employer indicates interest and sets expectations for next steps or a follow-up timeline. Then the timeline comes and goes with no communication. The candidate follows up, but nothing comes back.

From the candidate’s side, this is just as frustrating. They are left in limbo, unsure if they are still being considered or if they should move on. In reality, several things may be happening behind the scenes. The employer may have identified another candidate they prefer. They may have an offer out and are waiting for acceptance. In some cases, they may even be holding multiple candidates in reserve until a new hire officially starts.

A recruiter sees both sides of this regularly. There are situations where an employer communicates strong interest and commits to a response by a certain date, only to go silent when that date arrives. There are also situations where a candidate expresses enthusiasm and alignment, only to stop responding when it comes time to move forward.

Regardless of which side initiates it, ghosting sends the same message. It signals a lack of professionalism and a lack of respect for the other party’s time and effort. This industry is built on relationships. Whether you are a designer, a hiring manager, or a company owner, your reputation matters.

The solution is not complicated. Be respectful enough to say something. If circumstances have changed, then communicate that. A simple message stating that you are pursuing another direction, evaluating other options, or need more time is sufficient. It keeps the door open and maintains credibility.

In the end, ghosting is a choice. And, that choice reflects directly on the individual or company making it. Those on the receiving end should take note. If someone is willing to disappear during the hiring process, it raises a fair question about how they will handle communication after the hire is made.

Be in the KNOW

Consider the Benefits of MSRLPC Membership

All who produce, supply, and use machine stress rated lumber are invited to join the MSR Lumber Producers Council. Membership supports the annual MSR Workshop, which brings together members of the entire lumber supply chain and offers a unique opportunity for participants to network and gain a broader perspective on the MSR market and opportunities for growth.

As a component manufacturer, understanding what you’re buying and how it’s produced is critical. If you are bidding and designing jobs months in advance and don’t have a pulse on the MSR supply in North America, you can find yourself in a pickle. Material availability is not optional—it’s foundational to profitability.”

—Porter Clark, Hiwassee Builders Supply Inc.

2026 ProStack Automated Wall Panel Stacker with Overhang Option - Stacks 2x4 through 2x8 walls up to 20' in length and up to 12' in wall height. The ProStack will automatically center, left-justify, or right-justify each layer including multiple wall segments on the same layer. Fork pockets are easily created for ease of loading in your yard or on the build site. There is no overhead frame or apparatus, so no hardhats or crane inspections are required. The ProStack is "event driven," so there is no need to read a file or update software.

This ProStack with the Overhang option allows stacking wall panels with sheathing overhangs up to 18". It can be paired with the optional tilt in-feed and/ or powered out-feed conveyors. Please call us today for full details, terms, and pricing. 208 volt, 3 phase, 49 Amp electrical required. Footprint is 26'-5"L x 19'-3"W.

PNEUMATIC TILT TABLE

The Panels Plus Tilt Table allows operators to easily access both sides of the wall panel. It offers an ergonomic design that pneumatically tilts the panel for easy access to either side of the wall panel. The Tilt Table is compatible with both wood and light-gauge steel wall panels.

This model can be stand-alone or integrated into a full production line.

BENEFITS

• Ergonomic design

• Single person operation

• Provides working access to either side of wall panel

•Vastly enhanced operator control for even greater productivity

•A redesigned nail-feed supplying EverWin PN90-PAL industrial nail guns

•Simplified pneumatics featuring direct air-supply to all six nail guns

•Even more sub-component profiles for wall design flexibility

•Rugged durability with pharmaceutical grade assembly

"The bottleneck eliminator"

Lateral Transfer Station

The Transfer Table accommodates two parallel lines. It can convey wall panels straight across from either line or receive a panel from one line and unload it on the other.

The infeed and outfeed devices can be powered or manual. Powered infeed and outfeed devices will be interlocked with the Transfer Table to prevent accidental unloading or overrunning.

Capacity & Specs:

• Requires less "mindfulness" by the operators

• Eliminates production bottlenecks

A single start command will inhibit the unloading of a panel. The second start command will transfer the panel between lines and a third start command will set it to return automatically when completed.

Air: N/A

Electrical: 120 V, 1 PH, 30 AMPs

*Specifications subject to change without notice.

CT Darnell Construction’s design-build approach

With nearly 40 years of LBM experience and more than 4,500 completed projects, we build turnkey truss facilities designed to perform from day one.

Design Connections

Is Your Tribal Knowledge Retiring or Expiring?

In my 30+ years in this industry, I’ve seen some of the most sophisticated automation money can buy. We have saws that think faster than humans and auto-jigging systems that move with surgical precision. But here is the cold, hard truth: the most critical piece of infrastructure in your plant isn’t the $500,000 linear saw. It’s the 62-year-old designer sitting in the corner office who knows exactly why your best customer likes their roofs framed in a particular way, despite what the software suggests.

As we hit mid-2026, the “gray wave” isn’t just a demographic statistic — it’s a structural threat. Nearly 20% of the North American truss workforce is approaching retirement. We are currently facing the greatest exodus of “tribal knowledge” in the history of the component industry.

The question isn’t whether your veterans are leaving. The question is: when they walk out that door for the last time, are they taking your company’s “secret sauce” with them?

The Liability of the “Unreplaceable” Legend

Every plant has one. In the Pacific Northwest, it’s the lead who can spot a structural discrepancy in a complex custom build long before they even start to prepare the designs. In the US South, it’s the designer who can navigate complex coastal wind codes and local building official “preferences” in their sleep. We call these people “assets.” I’m here to tell you that, in the very near term, they are your biggest single point of failure.

If your operation relies on a veteran’s “gut feeling” or a private stash of spreadsheets that only they understand, you don’t have a process — you have a hostage situation. When that individual retires, your efficiency won’t just dip, it will crater. You’ll see a spike in shop errors, an increase in jobsite back-charges, and a design department that suddenly feels like it’s learning to walk for the first time.

Balancing the Blame: The Hoarder and the Enabler

To solve this, we have to look at both sides of the desk.

• The Veteran’s Role: Let’s be honest — knowledge is power. In many plants, senior designers and foremen have spent decades “gatekeeping” their expertise. Sometimes it’s ego; more often, it’s a survival mechanism. If they are the only ones who know how to fix the problem, they are indispensable. But there is a fine line between being a mentor and being a bottleneck. If you aren’t actively trying to make yourself “replaceable,” you aren’t leading, you’re hoarding.

• Management’s Role: You cannot blame a veteran for not sharing knowledge if you’ve never given them the permission or the time to do it. Most GMs are so focused on daily board-footage and hitting aggressive design square-footage targets that they treat a two-hour mentoring session as “lost production.”

If you are forcing your senior staff to grind out 60 hours of production a week just to keep the backlog moving, you are effectively paying them to keep their mouths shut. You are prioritizing today’s shipping schedule over next year’s survival.

The Cost of Silence

In 2026, the “standard” talent we are recruiting is tech-native, fast, and adaptable. But they lack the “dirt under the fingernails” experience. They haven’t spent decades visiting jobsites to see how their designs translate to the real world or seeing firsthand why a “perfect” software model doesn’t always reflect the real world. They trust the screen implicitly.

It reminds me of a conversation I had many years ago with a boss who was new to our industry. He was trying to wrap his head around my role and why it was so critical to the company’s success. He looked at me and asked, “Geordie, what do companies that don’t have someone like you do?” I thought about it for a moment and gave him the only honest answer I had: “They struggle.”

If you aren’t actively bridging the gap between your veterans and your new hires, that “struggle” is exactly what’s waiting for you on the other side of their retirement party. The “brain drain” is a leak in your foundation. You can either patch it now by incentivizing mentorship, or you can wait until the roof caves in.

At The JobLine Canada, we aren’t just seeing a shortage of bodies — we’re seeing a shortage of legacy. When we help plants recruit, we look for more than just technical proficiency. We identify “bridge builders.” Whether you are a veteran looking for a firm that values your mentorship or an owner needing to stabilize your leadership team before the “gray wave” hits, we specialize in the transition of talent.

If you want help finding that next perfect component designer or design job in Canada, please contact me. If your work is in the mass timber world anywhere in North America, I’d love to talk to you about connecting you to that next great job or candidate. You can reach me at secord@ thejobline.com, or 800-289-5627 ext. 2. I’m also happy to engage at: LinkedIn.com/in/geordiesecord www.thejobline.com

800-289-5627

• Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyor

• Powered Height Adjustment (6'-11" to 12'-5" wall heights)

• Fixed Squaring Stops

• Excludes Tool Dollies

• 110 Volt / 20 Amps

• Add $6,600 for Stud Locators at 16" & 24" O.C.

• Add $3,500 for 1 Pair of 15' Skatewheel Conveyor with Stands

• Ad d $13,900 for Sub-Component Layup Tables with Pop-up Skatewheel Conveyors

• E QUIPMENT FINANCING available from SLS Financial Services

$39,500 FOB NE

ProStack Wall Panel Stacker

Reduced labor, increased safety, the benefits just keep stacking up. Stacking wall panels at the end of your production line can be a real labor-intensive and safety-challenging task. But it doesn’t have to be now, thanks to ProStack. This innovative wall panel stacker literally stacks from the bottom up, reducing awkward overhead lifting & placement, and the risk of head injury. Plus, ProStack frees up at least one worker to return more productively to your core task—building wall panels. Enhanced worker safety and productivity is what ProStack is all about.

Developed for commercial wall panel production facilities this is the remarkable ProStack, fully automated wall panel stacker. The ProStackrelieves your build team from creating a stack of wall panels and keeps them building walls instead. Stacks 2×4 through 2×8 walls up to 20′ in length and up to 12′ in height (taller by special order). The ProStack will automatically center or left or right justify each layer including multiple wall segments on the same layer. For ease of loading in your yard or on the build site, fork pockets are created in two ways: The operator can attach blocking up to 5″ tall to the last wall of the stack prior to entering the stacker, or two shorter walls can be spread apart prior to the second to last row of the stacker. Designed without any overhead frame or apparatus, so no crane inspections are required. The ProStack is “event driven”, so there is no need to read a file. Setup and installation is easy too, without the need for complex training or disruption to workflow. So free up your team to do what they do best, and you need to do most, and let ProStack stack your wall panels instead. ProStack can even operate with your existing powered conveyors or select our optional matching conveyors (see the video shown below). 208 volt, 3 phase, 43 Amp base model electrical required. No air required. Footprint is 26′-5″L x 19′-3″W. For additional information Click Here

$59,499

2016 A-Nu-Prospect 42-60 ft Galvanized Stretch Rolloff Trailer

Fully galvanized chassis, with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), sliding tandem axles, air-controlled suspension release for unloading, 11-gauge galvanized floor plate. Rollers: galvanized 5″ x 3/16″ x 98 3/4″ tubing, 24″o/c hydraulic lift neck with a 12-volt DC pump, onboard battery. Roller Locks: Air-powered, 8 position ratchet style for quick and hands-free release. Controls: Mounted roadside at landing gear. Lights: LED, galvanized head rack. Straps: Sliding winches with straps and “D rings” to attach to curbside “J-hooks”. Fold-away fixed bumper, Mud flaps behind tandem. Current DOT inspection.

Wall Panel Lift

* 8’- 12’ Wall Height

* 1,000 LB Capacity

* Easy Adjustment

* Hoist and Crane Sold Separate

Handle Bar Router

* 8’ - 12’ Wall Height

* 2 Person Operation

* 3 ¼ hp Production Router

* 120 Volt /1 Phase/15 Amp

Lay-Up Tables

* 10’ x 10’ Working Area

* Lift & Extend Rollers

* Squaring Lip

* Nail Tray

Skate Rollers

* 15’ Standard Length

* Adjustable Height

* Sturdy Stands

* Custom Lengths Available

$13,900.00

$3,500.00 $3,000.00 $1,950.00

2022 Peterbilt 579 S/A Day Cab Truck #1

Paccar MX-13 / 12.9L / 405 HP Engine

249,300 Miles / 5,566 Engine Hours

Auto Transmission Engine Brake

12,000 Lb Front Axle / 22,700 Lb Rear Axle / 34,700 Lb GVWR

Air Trac Air Ride Suspension

148 Inch Wheelbase

Dual Fuel Tanks

Tires are Very Good

$35,000 FOB PA

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster

36-51 ft Stretch Trailer (OR-1)

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 36′51′ – Lakeside trailer features 5th-wheel connection, sliding tandem axle, locking rollers and hydraulic lift neck. Current DOT inspection September 2023. 50% brakes and 50% tire tread remains. 26,000 GVWR

$28,997 NOW $21,997 FOB MO Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2021 Big John Extendable Pole Truss Trailer

Extendable pole trailer

Used for 60' span roof trusses, peak down

Retracted length - 35'. O.A.

Extended length - 45' O.A.

Adjustable 2' Increments

Outer tube frame - 8" square tube

Inner tube frame - 6" square tube

Axles - (2) 25,000 LB Capacity Each Axle width -102"

Anti-lock brake system

Parking brakes on both axles

Wheels - 10 stud outboard drums

Tires - 11 R 22.5 radials

Rims - 22.5 steel unimount (8) alum wheels

Suspension - Watson air ride with dump valve

Landing gear - 2 speed

Bumper - standard

Lights - DOT Specs, LED Package (2) truss stands (4) winches with straps

$29,900 NOW $14,900 FOB SC

Wasserman & Associates

800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

2005 Rayfab 32′ Roll Off Trailer

32′ Rayfab trailer features 5th wheel connection, locking rollers, straps, a 10,000 lb axle, electric brakes, spring suspension, and 2 speed landing gear. Manufacturer states the lightweight trailer is ideal for oneton trucks. Trailer weighs approximately 5,420 lbs. DOT expired February 2025. $7,990 FOB OH Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com Scan the QR Code to take you directly to our website. For more information or to request a quote Call or Email: 1-800-237-5161 sales@precisionequipmfg.com

(Shown with Optional Headache Rack)

By the Lesko Financial Services Team

WEconomic Factors in the Second Quarter

e began the second quarter of the year with a sense of growing tension and uncertainty over the impact of war with Iran. The de facto shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz — through which 20% of the global oil supply is shipped — continued to send oil prices soaring with inflationary results rippling throughout many sectors of the economy

The conflict hit the one-month mark just before the quarter began and had already eroded previously historic stock market gains.

Higher energy costs layered onto already stubbornly elevated core inflation continues to deepen concerns over future monetary policy and fuels even greater volatility in the markets and beyond.

Still, many analysts are holding onto somewhat optimistic forecasts for modest growth while moderating previous growth numbers.

Staying on Course During Geopolitical Uncertainty

The U.S. economy that faced these unanticipated shocks was fairly well-positioned to weather them over the long-term despite signs of a softening labor market and sticky lingering inflation.

Unemployment remains relatively low. Wage gains have outpaced inflation for nearly three years. Other factors that could support economic strength include deferred growth from last year’s government shutdown, larger tax refunds, and solid underlying demand.

The Federal Reserve has exhibited patience as it balances inflation against labor market concerns. Entering 2026, investors expected multiple rate cuts from the Fed. But higher prices, driven by energy, have tempered those expectations and monetary policy may stay on hold longer than markets anticipated.

The stock market almost always reacts to uncertainty with fear and resultant sell-offs have brought market indices off their historic highs. Yet the markets have taken recent geopolitical developments more calmly than many forecasters might have anticipated. The belief that this was might be short-lived may have prompted investors to shift into greater diversification rather than panic into any large-scale retreat.

Modest Upside Factors

Energy stocks soared as oil prices spiked following the U.S. bombing campaign in Iran. Industrial stock tied to defense and the AI boom performed well and also led some investors into defensive stocks, leading to gains in the consumer defensive and utility sectors.

Enthusiasm for technological advances in robotics, opticals, and space exploration remains high. Recent business reporting has also expanded AI from the realm of mere speculation into realized benefits including improved efficiency, faster decision-making, and higher output, with impacts expected to strengthen further in 2026.

Analysts appear to be looking toward earnings season with cautious optimism. Credit markets remain calm, with spreads still tight and default expectations low

Overall consumer sentiment may yet be an unknown in the face of higher costs due to inflation — especially higher prices at the gas pump. But spending remained resilient and drove solid economic growth throughout much of the last year despite tariff worries and wage and job pessimism. The belief that the conflict may not last too long, coupled with lower taxes and higher tax refunds, should have a positive effect on retail sales in Q2.

Key Factors to Consider

It’s likely that market volatility will remain elevated even if the Iran conflict reaches its conclusion. Economists will be watchful of key risks that could play out, including high oil prices leading to a slowing rate of economic growth coupled with hotter-than-expected inflation; AI stocks requiring greater growth to support high valuations; and weakening fundamentals in private credit markets.

Other considerations are the resumption of trade and tariff negotiations, a new Chair taking the reins at the Fed, and upcoming midterm elections.

Still the over-riding question as we move through the second quarter is how long the Iran war will last and what the immediate aftermath will look like.

It’s nearly a given that uncertainty will continue to affect the markets and the economy. It’s critical for you to stay invested and remain patient, sticking to a plan based upon your needs, unique financial position, risk tolerance, and investment timeline. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or comments. We hope you have a healthy and prosperous season with all the joys spring has to offer.

Visit msrlumber.org to find:

• Design Values Comparison Tool

Compare MSR lumber reference design values with visually graded dimensional lumber by species.

• History of the MSR Lumber Industry

Spanning eight decades, the industry’s robust history has been captured for the first time in one place.

• Sources for MSR Lumber

Filter by species, grade and dimension to locate products from MSRLPC members.

• Educational Resources

Find helpful information for current and potential MSR lumber users.

Valuable WEBSITE Resources

“Lumber buyers don’t often have access to truss design software to easily determine the allowable substitutions that may inform their purchasing decisions in a meaningful way. This tool helps with that and provides valuable information about species substitution, which is becoming more common in today’s market. It’s a one-stop shop.”

—George Hamilton, MSRLPC Board & Website Committee Member

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 48-ft Rolloff Trailer

1997 Lakeside JDH Trussmaster 48-ft rolloff trailer features 5th-wheel connection, sliding tandem axle, locking split rollers, and hydraulic lift neck. Current DOT inspection valid through 1 October 2025. 60% brakes remaining. Six tires at 50% tread remaining and two tires at 40% tread remaining. 68,000 GVWR.

$11,997 NOW $6,997 FOB IA As-is, Where-is Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2014 Precision 48′ Roll Off Trailer (R157)

2014 Precision 48′ roll off trailer features tandem axle, fifth wheel connection, locking rollers, ABS brakes, and hydraulic lift neck. Estimated 50% tire tread remaining. $17,990 FOB WI Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

1990 Wabash 48' - 77' Roll off trailer

• Certified for highway

• New 5th wheel

• New Undercarriage

• New rear bumper

• New wiring

• 70% rubber remaining Asking $19,500 NOW $10,500 M.P.B. Builders 920-748-2601 www.mpbbuilders.com

2021 Big John Extendable Truss Pole Trailer

2021 Big John peak down extendable pole trailer. Transports up to 60′ peak down trusses with a retracted length of 35 ft. O.A., and an extended length of 45 ft. O.A. Adjustable in up to 2 ft. increments. Outer tube frame is 8″ sq. tub and inner frame is 6″ sq. tub. Features 2 axles with anti-lock brake system and parking brakes on both axles. Trailer features air ride suspension with dump valve and 2 speed landing gear.

$23,890 NOW $14,990 FOB NC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

Used - 2014, R157 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

Tandem Axles | Air Ride Suspension : Air Operated Load Control, Air Operated Pin

$17,500 NOW $10,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com/equipment/ trailers

Used - 2014, R156 48” Roll -Off Precision Trailer

$17,500 NOW $10,500 Eide Machinery Sales, Inc. 612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com/equipment/ trailers

•

2000 Haulin 36' Truss/Panel Roll-Off

•

• Locking Rollers

and need to be replaced

$12,500 Each or $24,000 for Both Trailers Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2014 Precision 48′ Roll Off Trailer (R156) 2014 Precision 48′ roll off trailer features tandem axle, fifth wheel connection, locking rollers, ABS brakes, and hydraulic lift neck. Estimated 50% tire tread remaining. $17,990 FOB WI Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• Foam Filled Tires

• Cummins QSB 4.5 Turbo Diesel

• 4,350 Hours

$59,900 FOB CA Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

800-289-5627

GOING FORWARD, COSTLY SERVICE AGREEMENTS ARE A

THING OF THE PAST.

2006 Rogers 15 HP Compressor

2006 Rogers 15 HP rotary screw compressor model RMC-KIV-15-100, reconditioned in 2021. 125 PSI, 8,100 hours. 460 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$16,997 NOW $13,995 FOB OR Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

New Monet Power Deck Infeed Decks

Heavy-duty, 5-chain feed system to bring material to the infeed of the component saw. 16′ wide x 20′ long x 36″ high. Transfers 6′ to 20′ lumber lengths. Option for 6-arm Power Deck available at an additional cost. Features auto-feed advance, foot pedal override forward and reverse, variable speed control, double bearing construction, softstart and soft-stop and e-stop cable. Base price shown. 480 volt, 3 phase, 15 Amp electrical required. (Prices start at $31,000.) Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

• 60" x 72" Base

• 10" Fixed & Swivel Casters

• 2 Vertical Standards and Cart Blocking for Fork Lift Loading

• EZ-Set Pneumatic Height Setting

• 6

•

• Repurposed Koskovich

• Excludes:

• Auto Indexing (as material is removed)

• 6,000 Lb Capacity

• W hite Powder Coat Finish (Optional Custom Colors)

• Made in the USA with USA Steel $9,520 FOB SD

By Doan Tran

Celebrating the Lunar New Year with Simpson Strong-Tie Viet Nam

Lunar New Year has passed, but its meaning continues to guide our work at Simpson Strong-Tie Viet Nam. Tet is a time of renewal, gratitude, and connection. Each year, our Viet Nam branch honors this tradition together in the office, reinforcing shared purpose and commitment. Established in 2012, Simpson Strong-Tie Viet Nam plays a key role in delivering No-Equal® engineering services and global support in areas including structural engineering, mechanical engineering, graphic design, and software solutions. This year’s celebration kicked off another year of anticipation and camaraderie.

Following the Lunar New Year holiday, on February 24, the Enterprise Services Viet Nam (ESVN) office was filled with the joyful spirit of spring — a season that, in Vietnamese culture, symbolizes renewal, hope, and good fortune. Bright red and gold decorations, symbolic of luck and prosperity, adorned the workspace. The scent of traditional treats like “mứt” (candied fruits) and the sound of cheerful New Year greetings created a warm and lively atmosphere as colleagues reunited after the holiday break.

One of the most meaningful traditions of the season is the exchange of “lì xì” — lucky red envelopes. Continuing this cherished annual practice, members of the leadership team join employees in giving out red envelopes and share heartfelt wishes for happiness, health, and success in the year ahead. In Vietnamese culture, this gesture is not just about wishing someone good luck in the coming year; it’s a way of strengthening bonds, showing appreciation, and spreading positive energy.

These moments of connection reflected the strong sense of community that defines the ESVN culture. The gathering brought together colleagues from different teams, united by the joy of the holiday and the shared excitement for the opportunities ahead.

As the new year begins, ESVN looks forward with optimism and enthusiasm. Building on the achievements of 2025, the team steps into the new year with a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and success.

2020 (Reconditioned) Clark Column Laminator

(OEM Reconditioned in 2020) Features the capacity of producing 3-ply to 5-ply columns up to 40 feet in length from 2”x 6”, 2”x 8”, or 2”x 10” boards. The hydraulic pressing clamps secure the entire length of the post on all four sides during the assembly and computerized nailing process to ensure that the plies are kept tightly together producing a straight & true laminated column. Options included hydraulic ejection and handling systems, planing of finished columns for smooth, uniform surface, industrial nailers, and in-line hydraulic plate press for material splicing.

FC Curtis model E-15 two-stage, piston drive, air compressor with dryer and 80 Gal. horizontal storage tank, 175 PSI, and 5 HP drive motor. Sold for $4,200 new. 480 volt, 3 phase electrical required.

$2,495 FOB AZ Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com NAPA 25 HP Compressor with Dryer (BU-1) 2005 NAPA 25 HP rotary screw compressor model 8025B, with Rogers CLS46 dryer. Compressor reconditioned in 2021. 125 PSIG, 8,292 hours. 460 volt, 3 phase, 29 Amp electrical required.

EMSI Teeter Cart Width – 46” / Length – 73” / Load Capacity – 2850 pounds / Pneumatic tires – 14.5 inch / Maximum utility in truss plants, panel plants, and lumber yards / Quick Assembly by bolting parts together / All hardware is supplied / Upright 2 x 4’s not supplied / Medium duty tires rated at 1500 lbs each are included.

Call for Price

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

Used - Quincy 25 Horsepower Screw Compressors (2x) Taken from service | Optional: Refrigerated Air Dryer - $500 $3500 each

Eide Machinery Sales, Inc.

612-521-9193

www.eidemachinery.com

$11,997 NOW $9,997 FOB OR Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

GALVANIZED STEEL STRAPPING 1 1/4" wide x .035 thick. $95 per coil. $1,900 per skid (21 coils). FOB PA. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

2019 LAP Laser, 2-head System

Two-head LAP Laser system, model CADPro, 10 mW green lasers. 0.5mm beam width, laser class 3R. Includes PRO SOFT TP 5.1 software, all available mounting brackets, distribution box, projector cables, remote control, hardware and manuals. Can work in a US location with some additional regulatory steps. OEM installation & support available for an additional fee of approx. $5,000. 110v, 1 phase electrical required.

$21,995

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2017 SL-Laser Truss Projection System

• (6) 2017 SL-Laser ProDirector 6 Heads

• Currently used with Desktop PC & Monitor

• Original SL Laser Touch Screen/Cabinet is included

• Excludes SL-Laser Software License

• Price in US Dollars

$52,500 FOB ON

BAM Pre-Hung Door Machine Titan Series Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) Titan series pre-hung door machine. Designed to produce between 150 and

250 doors per day. Multi-function door machine capable of doors 1'-6″ to 4′-0″ in width, and both 6′-8″ or 8′-0″ door heights. Processes both 1 3/8″ and 1 3/4″ thick door slabs. Machines the door, hinge jamb and strike jamb all at the same time. Capable hinge sizes include 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″, 4″ x 4″, 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ with 5/8″ radius. Cycle time with flush hinge routing is 45 seconds. 10′ long x 7′-6″ wide footprint. Shipping weight 4,000 lbs.

information Click Here

TP would like to welcome the following authorized agents to our inspection team, each of whom have many years of experience in the truss industry!

• Al Coffman

• Jean Hart • Curt Holler • Chuck Ray

Glenn Traylor • Elliot Wilson

•

Bar Frame with Makita Switches

• 3 1/4 HP / 120 Volt / 1 Phase / 15 Amp

• Includes 2 Router Bits

$3,000 FOB NE. Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Custom Slotted Steel

Low-profile Tables, Qty: (13)

Quantity of thirteen (13) custom-built, slotted steel tables, each 6′-8″ wide x 14′0″ deep x 1′-4″ tall. Table top building surface is 6″ x 1/2″ thick bar stock over 3″ channel, and 3/4″ diameter threaded rod adjustable feet. Slots are 3/4″ wide. No truss hardware included. Can be purchased in various quantities.

$1,875 ea. FOB Ontario Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

20' Live Deck (5 Chain)

• 20' Live Deck (5 Chain)

• Foot Pedal Control

• 3 HP / 3 Phase Motor

• Buyer to dismantle/load the equipment

• Se ller will provide forklift for equipment dismantle/load

$12,500 NOW $11,000 FOB OH Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

SL-Laser Model ProDirector 7 Projection System

Improved model ProDirector 7, green-color laser projection system from SL-Laser. Projects roof truss, floor truss and wall panel design images accurately onto building surface for faster setup and fabrication times. New employees are productive more quickly, with less training required. Each laser head provides 21′ projection length (at 15-foot ceiling heights). New model PD7 projector heads are smaller in size than previous models, have diodes that are easier than ever to swap out and maintain, and project an even clearer line onto the building surface.FOB NC Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

2005 NAPA 15 HP Compressor

2005 NAPA rotary screw compressor, 15 HP, reconditioned in 2021, 25,887 hours, model H80158. 460 volt, 3 phase, 20 Amp electrical required.

$8,991 NOW $4,991 FOB OR Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Highly Accurate: +/- .010 Inches

Stop Rail: 2 x 4 x 1/4 Aluminum Extrusion

Stops: Jig Bored Steel

Stop Blocks: Machine Billet Aluminum

Internal Components: Hardened, Ground and Polished Steel and Billet Aluminum

Dimensions:

Length: 5 feet (60”) to 60 feet (720”)

Height: 12 inches

Depth: 12 inches

If you are looking for the fastest, mist consistent way to measure and cut your product, then the Hain Measuring System (MEA) is your answer. The MEA changes from one length t any length instantly, up to 60’, without changing the operator’s position on the line. It is also highly accurate (+- .010) and quickly moves from one length to the next in seconds. The MEA is designed for quick and easy setup and is simple to use. Even a first time user will be productive with little or no training required. It can adapt to any saw and can be mounted to any surface so that you can integrate the MEA with your existing setup. The MEA is versatile allowing “left” or “right” handed operation and measurement in “feet and inches” or “inches” depending on your preference. The MEA is also available in a “Skid Mounted” version.

New ASI Ink Jet Plate Marker

• Automated Wall Panel Parts Cutting & Marking as directed by Wall Panel Design Software Output

• 20' Roller Conveyor with Servo Motor Controlled Length Stop/Plate Pusher

• 10' Infeed Roller Conveyor

• 24" Lenovo Touch Screen Computer (Windows 11 Pro OS)

• ASI Basic L Plate Cutting/Marking Operating Software

• 4 Head Ink Jet Plate Marker (marks 2 plates on edge)

• 110 Volt / 1 Phase

• Includes Onsite Installation & Training

• Excludes Saw & Dust Collector

• Add $2,250 for Dewalt Sliding Miter Saw with Saw Support Table

• Other Saw Options Include: Existing Saws, ASI Radial Arm Saw, Lauderdale Hamilton Up Cut Saw & Vista Angle Boss Saws

• Video available upon request

BAM Stair Wedge Saw

Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) model 2220, stair wedge saw station automatically produces wood wedges used to lock stair treads and risers into slots cut into the stair stringers…

2023 MiTek Component

Delivery System (CDS)

Quantity of two, priced per each. Automated conveyor system for moving cut boards from a linear saw towards assembly tables. Cut boards move from the linear saw to a staging conveyor with the ability to divert boards for use later. Board capacities from 2×3″ minimum to 2×12″ maximum, to 20-ft maximum length. Shortest lengths governed by the linear saw. Each CDS includes operator bridge platform, HMI control stands with touchscreen tablet, one 5-ft transfer conveyor, one 22-ft push conveyor, one 30-ft staging conveyor assembly, one 10-ft staging conveyor, one power and control module, one 24″ wide bridge, pushbutton emergency stop and any available spare parts

$178,995 FOB GA

2006 SL-Laser ProDirector 4, 3-Head System

3-head system includes three (3) projectors with universal mounts, one (1) PC terminal with stand and all available cables. Green laser projection. Lasers project roof truss, floor truss and wall panel design images accurately onto building surface for faster setup and fabrication times. More information here

$12,995 FOB KS

Wood Tech Systems 765-751-9990 www.woodtechsystems.com

Hain Vent Block Drill

Hain Company Vent Block Drill. From the OEM’s website, “The Vent Block Drill is designed to make lumber, truss and wall panel manufacturing yards more efficient by easily converting scrap wood into useable vent (frieze) blocks. By simply inserting a block, the VBD has one button to press and the rest is automatic. It can drill 1, 2, 3, or 4 holes and you can adjust the block size in 15 seconds or less. The VBD processes each job quickly and tests have shown that it will produce in excess of 360 vent blocks per hour. Operation is simple and even a first time user can begin drilling blocks in a matter of minutes. The machine is enclosed for safety and the back cover can easily be removed for maintenance.”

5 HP motor, block sizes 2×4 through 2×12 on center drill holes, or 2×14 off-center drill holes. Carbide tipped drill bits. 10 ga. aluminum construction. 60″ x 60″ x 33″ height. 100 PSI air required. 440 volt, 3 phase electrical required. Net weight 750 lbs.

$9,995 NOW $8,499 FOB OR Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

2020 Ranger RS Lumber Retrieval System

• Fully Automatic Laser Guided Lumber Retrieval System

• 5 Lumber Carts (6' to 20' Lumber)

• Vertical Dividers for Magazine Carts

• Vacuum Pick Head System

• Perimeter Safety System (Light Curtains, Fencing & Gate)

• 50' x 28' Footprint

• 5 Extra Custom Built Lumber Carts

• De signed to fit Monet Deasuw DeRobo Saw

• Available July 2024

• Video available upon request $94,900 NOW $79,900 FOB NE Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

Hain 210" Powered Measuring System

• Powered (1 Phase) Measuring System

• Inches System (21 Stops at 10" Centers)

• 15' Roller Conveyor with Stands

$6,225 NOW $2,500 FOB CA

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

Enventek Smart Conveyor

• 12' Live Deck (10 Chain)

• Adjustable Height

• Foot Pedal Control

• 220 Volt / 3 Phase Motor

• Buyer to dismantle/load the equipment

• S eller will provide forklift for equipment dismantle/load.

$12,000 FOB WI

Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329

www.wasserman-associates.com

BAM Staircase Assembly Clamp Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) staircase assembly clamp, model 2210, accommodates up to 20 foot long stringers with a maximum width of 54″…

2015 SL-Laser (7) Head Projection System

2015 SL-Lasers PD-6 Projector system. Fixed-head laser projection system allows for quick and accurate laser-guided setups, consisting of (7) GREEN laser heads for 140-feet of projection at 15’ table-to-ceiling height. Includes one SL touchscreen PC control, any available cables & universal mounting brackets. OEM installation and one-time software license required. 120 volt, 1 phase electrical, OEM Software license and installation required.

$59,497 FOB OR

www.woodtechsystems.com

Re-Engineered for even HIGHER CAPACITY:

• Cut up to four separate 2"x10" or 2"x12" stringers at one time, from dimensional lumber.

• �ut up to4separatestringersatone time, from LVL and LSL material.

•Accommodates 25 to45 degree stringer angles and up to 16" wide!

Open Stringer Saw

FOB PA

& Associates

Scrap (Band) Chopper with Stand 1/2 HP Motor (115/208-230 Volt)

$1,900 NOW $1,750 FOB NE.

2018 Spida Ink Jet Plate Marker

• Aut omated Wall Panel Component Cutting & Marking as directed by your Wall Panel Design Software

• DeWalt Miter Saw with Saw Table

• 20' of Steel Framed/Plastic Top Table with Automated Length Stop/Plate Positioner

• 10' Infeed Steel Framed/MDF Top Table

• Workstation, Control Cabinet Enclosure & 17" Touch Screen Integration

• Ink Jet Printer marks Wall Member Locations, Wall ID & Job Name

• Current use is a low volume shop

• Excludes: Dust Collector, Installation/ Training & Annual Technical Support Fee

$45,000 FOB MO Wasserman & Associates 800-382-0329 www.wasserman-associates.com

BAM “Ovation”

Door Machining Center (DMC)

New Builders Automation Machinery “Ovation” series, door machining center (DMC). Fully programmable, two-stage door machine featuring (27) axes of operation. Can be specified with either two or four front machining heads. Machine is side-eject, direct-drive with helical gear racks and gear protection from dust. The door loader is driven by an absolute encoder; no stepping motors, belts or exposed ball screws are used.

More information Click Here

Price based on configuration Wood Tech Systems

765-751-9990

www.woodtechsystems.com

Capacity

White Powder Coat Finish (Optional Custom Colors) • Made in the USA with USA Steel

BAM Door Loader, Model 2001

Builders Automation Machinery (BAM) door loader, model 2001. Allows you to stack door slabs horizontally and feeds them into a horizontal door machine like the BAM model 996E-TS. Mechanically adjusts door stack height vertically as slabs are fed into machine. Clamp automatically adjusts to type and size of door slab: steel, solid-core or hollowcore, from 6-ft to 8-ft heights. Electronic, programmed controller manages the loading process. Loader positions the door stacks adjacent to the door machine

heavy-duty drive train

approximately (30) seconds per

By Sean Shields, SBCA Director of Strategic Partnerships

An Industry Best Practice for Informing Installers

One of the most effective tools available to component manufacturers to inform installers and framers of the potential hazards associated with the installation of structural building components is the Component Warning Notice (CWN). Developed by the SBCA, the CWN has emerged as an industry best practice for communicating critical safety information in the field.

At its core, the CWN is a simple, consistent set of guidance designed to accompany structural building components to the jobsite. The CWN is comprised of three tools: the CWN Sheet, the CWN Tag, and the CWN Website.

Component Warning Notice Tag is intended for application on every truss and component sent to a jobsite. Having a tag on every truss provides an opportunity for the CWN to be seen by all installers on the jobsite. The CWN Tag has detailed graphics and specific warning language and colors as stipulated in ANSI Z535, in addition to a QR code to the CWN Website.

Component Warning Notice Sheet is now included in SBCA Standard Jobsite Packages in addition to being available for purchase on their own. The Component Warning Notice Sheet is comprised of safety information, specific warning language and colors as stipulated in ANSI Z535, and a QR Code to the CWN Website.

Component Warning Notice Website is a live version of the CWN at www.componentwarningnotice. com. This website will consist of the most up to date version of the CWN, allowing for improvement through the implementation process of this series of tools.

These three tools combined create a system for maximum awareness for anyone that comes in contact with structural building components, such as roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels.

Its purpose is straightforward: clearly identify potential hazards associated with handling and installing components such as roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels. While component manufacturers (CMs) already invest heavily in design accuracy and production quality, the reality is that hazards can arise during handling and installation, a process that is largely outside the CM’s direct control. The CWN helps bridge that gap.

One of the biggest advantages of adopting the CWN is its cost-efficiency. The Component Warning Notice has been seamlessly integrated into SBCA’s existing Jobsite Packages. It requires minimal additional effort to implement beyond using Jobsite Packages, and delivers significant value by helping to ensure that installers are consistently reminded of key safety considerations. Included alongside truss placement diagrams and other B-Series installation guidance, the CWN reinforces a culture of awareness without adding operational burden.

More importantly, the CWN helps align communication for the entire industry. Too often, safety instructions can vary from one manufacturer to another. By using a consistent, recognizable format, the CWN ensures that critical warnings are not overlooked by installers. This consistency benefits not only framers and installers but also builders, inspectors, and project managers who rely on clear, reliable information to keep projects moving safely and efficiently.

The CWN also strengthens the CM’s role in the construction process; CMs are well positioned at the intersection of design and field execution. They understand load paths, bracing requirements, and installation best practices in ways that others may not. The CWN provides a direct way to share that expertise where it matters most at the time that structural building components are being installed.

Just as important, affixing the CWN Tag to every truss and component demonstrates a proactive commitment to installer safety by putting guidance directly at their fingertips with the QR code. In an environment where jobsite safety is under increasing scrutiny, providing clear, documented hazard communication helps reduce misunderstandings and reinforces due diligence. The CWN Tag reinforces the manufacturer’s commitment to delivering a quality product while supporting the safety of those installing it.

Ultimately, the CWN is a practical and efficient solution that aligns with how CMs operate. It improves jobsite communication and supports safer installation practices without significant cost or disruption. For manufacturers looking to lead on safety through industry best practices, while delivering greater value to their customers, implementing the CWN is a good decision. Learn more at sbcacomponents.com/cwn

CalENdar of EvENts

MAY

May

JUNE 2026

September 3

September 10

September 14–18

CalENdar of EvENts

SEPTEMBER 2026

Midwest Bldg Suppliers Assoc (MBSA) White Pine Classic Stanwood, MI

Offsite Construction Summit Denver, CO

Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) Columbus, OH

September 14–19 Intl Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) Chicago, IL

September 16–18 Southeastern Lumber Mfrs Assoc (SLMA) D.C. Summit Washington, D.C.

September 17

Mountain States Lbr & Bldg Mat Dealers (MSLBMDA) Clay ShootBrighton, CO

September 21–24 North Am Wholesale Lumber Assoc (NAWLA) Wood Basics Corvallis, OR

September 23–25 Construction Suppliers Assoc (CSA) Conference & Tradeshow St. Simons Island, GA

September 25–28 Do it Best & True Value Fall Market Indianapolis, IN

September 28–30 Future Place Irving, TX

OCTOBER 2026

October 6–8 Natl Assoc of Home Builders (NAHB) Fall Leadership Meeting Detroit, MI

Is your event on this list? Email us

FROM CHAOS TO CONTROL

Replace spreadsheets and disconnected tools with a single platform built for offsite manufacturing.

See Moducore

Safety First!

Safety Meeting Topics

From State Fund CA.

Accident Investigation

Accidents are unplanned and unexpected events that cause injury, property damage, and/or financial loss in the workplace. Incidents or “near misses” don’t result in loss, but have the potential to do so.

Ideally, safety programs focus on preventing accidents and incidents, but if one occurs, have an accident investigation procedure ready and train your employees how to use it. Investigate ALL accidents and injuries; the severity determines the extent of the investigation. Handled properly, accident investigation helps you look at problems, solve them, improve your safety programs, and prevent future accidents.

Accident investigation should prevent recurrence. Adhering strictly to fact finding in a neutral, non-confrontational manner identifies the true attitudes, behaviors, and other factors that led to the problem. Analyzing facts and asking a neutral “why” question helps find the root cause of the accident. For example, if employee error caused the accident, dig further to determine why the employee made the error.

Accident investigation should not be used to blame, punish or exonerate workers and managers; true facts will not emerge in this environment. If you investigate an accident just to complete paperwork and satisfy insurance requirements, you will erode confidence in the system and you won’t achieve your goal of prevention and loss reduction.

Investigación de accidentes

Los accidentes son eventos no planificados e inesperados que causan lesiones, daños a la propiedad y/o pérdidas económicas en el lugar de trabajo. Los incidentes o “casi accidentes” no causan pérdidas, pero tienen el potencial de hacerlo.

Idealmente, los programas de seguridad están dirigidos a prevenir accidentes e incidentes, pero si uno ocurre, tenga listo un procedimiento de investigación de accidentes y capacite a sus empleados en su implementación. Investigue TODOS los accidentes y lesiones; la gravedad determina el alcance de la investigación. Si se conduce correctamente, la investigación del accidente le ayuda a identificar problemas, solucionarlos, mejorar sus programas de seguridad y prevenir futuros accidentes.

La investigación del accidente debe prevenir que éste se repita. La adherencia estricta al hallazgo de los hechos de una manera neutra y sin enfrentamiento identifi ca las actitudes, los comportamientos y otros factores reales que condujeron al problema. El análisis de los hechos y hacer las preguntas en un “por qué” neutro ayuda a encontrar la raíz del accidente. Por ejemplo, si el accidente fue causado por error de un empleado, averigüe más a fondo para determinar por qué el empleado cometió el error.

La investigación del accidente no debe usarse para culpar, castigar o exonerar a trabajadores y gerentes; en ese ambiente no saldrá a la luz la verdad. Si investiga un accidente simplemente para completar el papeleo y cumplir con los requerimientos del seguro, erosionará la confianza en el sistema y no alcanzará su objetivo de prevención y reducción de pérdidas.

A supervisor in the affected area is the best person to conduct an investigation because they are most familiar with the tools, equipment, and people involved. Experts in equipment, outside agencies, and other technical resources may also be needed.

Start your investigation by securing the scene, placing equipment out of service if necessary, and taking photos. Interview victims and witnesses. Collect evidence and records and document your observations. Find the contributing factors to determine the accident’s root cause. Document the recommended corrective actions, the people assigned to complete them, and a due date for completion.

La mejor persona para conducir la investigación es un supervisor en el área afectada, porque es el más familiarizado con las herramientas, los equipos y las personas afectadas. También puede que se necesiten expertos en equipos, agencias externas y otros recursos técnicos.

Comience su investigación resguardando la escena, retirando de servicio equipos y, si fuera necesario, tomando fotos. Entreviste a las víctimas y a los testigos. Reúna pruebas y registros y documente sus observaciones. Encuentre los factores contribuyentes para determinar la causa que dio origen al accidente. Documente las acciones correctivas, las personas asignadas para completar las mismas y la fecha límite para terminarlas.

not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

Senior Designer - J15413 Southern Alberta

Remote Truss Designer J14203 Indiana

Remote Wall Panel Designer - MiTek J15407 SoCal

Remote Truss & Wall Panel Designer J15406 So Cal

Component Manufacturing Technical Sales Engineer J15360 Western US

Technical Sales Engineer J15410 USA

Senior Truss Designer J15409 South

Outside Sales - J15411 Western Ontario

Design Manager - J15295 Western Ontario

Remote Truss Designer J15408 SoCal

Truss Designer - MiTek software J15392 Ohio

Remote Multifamily Truss Designer J15326 REMOTE

Senior Multifamily Wall Panel Designer J15405 REMOTE

Multifamily Truss Designer - MiTek J5399 South or Remote

Truss Designer - AG/SF/MiTek J15385 Upper Midwest

Senior Truss Designer -Alpine J15412 Western Canada - remote option

Wall Panel Designer-J15402 Alberta - remote

Senior Designer-Truss/EWP-J15400 Alberta - remote

Design & Estimating Manager/Sales Coord. J15397 Mid-South

Senior Truss Designer J15396 Indiana/Kentucky

Senior Truss Designer - J15342 Mountains

Truss Designer - J15394 South

In Office Truss Designer - MiTek Software J15393 Florida

Truss Production Supervisor-J15389 Greater Toronto Area

Plant Manager - Wall Panels - J15375 Central Florida

In Office Wall Panel Designer - MiTek Software J15388 Florida

Production Manager - Truss J15387 South

Outside Sales Technical - Truss/Bldg Mtls/MiTek J15386 South

Outside Sales/Design/AG/SF/MiTek J15384 Upper Midwest

Senior Designer-Truss/EWP-J15382 Eastern Ontario

Truss Design Manager - MiTek software J15370 Florida

Sales Manager - J15373

Southern Alberta

Truss & EWP Design Manager - J15376 Central Ontario

Remote Mega-Multifamily Truss Designer J15368 Mid-Atlantic

Sales Representative - J15355 Central Ontario

Remote Truss Designer - MiTek J15228 Florida

Truss Designer J14165 Carolinas

Mass Timber Sales/Business Development-J15338 Central Ontario

Mass Timber Engineer-J15337 Central Ontario

Senior Truss Designer-J15300 Eastern Ontario

Truss Designer-J15299 Eastern Ontario

ID: C19055

Remote Truss Designer - MMF/SFC Truss/ Panel Design Manager

Relocation: USA - ALL States for management positions.

Remote for design

Overview:

Senior truss design professional with over 25 years of experience in roof and floor truss systems, department leadership, and cross-functional coordination. Proven track record of advancing from designer to senior leadership, overseeing design, estimating, scheduling, and sales alignment within high-volume manufacturing environments.

Recognized for building structured processes, improving communication between sales and production, and strengthening design team performance. Deep working knowledge of Alpine software, IRC and IBC code requirements, and workflow optimization within component manufacturing operations.

Seeking either a Design Manager opportunity where leadership and process development are key priorities, or a remote Senior Truss Designer role where advanced technical expertise and efficiency can add immediate value.

ID: C19039

Wall Panel Designer

Relocation: Texas, REMOTE, Michigan

This candidate brings a rare blend of handson construction experience and wall panel design expertise. Beginning his career as a carpenter, he spent years mastering framing, finish work, layouts, and overall building methodology before running his own construction business. When the market shifted, he transitioned into wall panel design, quickly excelling in software-driven production for residential, multi-family, and commercial projects, including large custom homes and multi-story hotels. His field background gives him practical insight into how panels are assembled, installed, and coordinated on-site, making his designs both accurate and builder-friendly.

Known for reliability, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, he has also demonstrated the resilience to navigate major career transitions while remaining committed to craftsmanship and quality. After spending several years in transportation to support his family, he is returning to the construction industry with a renewed focus on balance, pride in his work, and long-term career growth. He is open to relocation for the right opportunity.

ID: C11427

Remote Truss Designer/Design ManagerMega-Multifamily

Relocation: Texas

6 years experience as Plant Manager with

another 6 years in Design (one of our very few ACE designers): Facilitated the truss sale, design, & delivery for lumber salesmen lacking truss experience. Developed own customer base by selling trusses. Design layouts of floor and roof truss systems for multifamily/commercial projects. Proficient use of MiTek Engineering, eFrame, AutoCAD, TJBeam, and Excel programs. He has some Sapphire experience but not as a Truss Designer. He expects to need 30 days to get back up to speed and re-learn Sapphire.

14+ years' experience as Plant Manager including staff development, workforce management and training, meeting production goals, asset management, maintenance and capital improvements, budget development and reporting, and assuring company policies were implemented across all departments.

Compensation: Upper $40's per hour as a Remote Truss Designer to start with review and adjustment to actual value based on his abilities in 30-60 days.

Thom's Notes: One of our top 1% Truss Design ACE's. Open to other remote opportunities that he is qualified to fill including Sales or Estimating. Will travel.

ID: C18378

Remote Truss Designer Relocation: REMOTE, USA - Western

Experienced Roof Truss Designer with a strong foundation in the building industry, seeking a role where my skills can contribute to company growth and long-term success. I thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and excel at understanding customer needs, communicating clearly, and motivating teams through effective delegation. I recognize the importance of company-wide financial performance and strive to support overall success through efficient operations.

My industry background is diverse, including truss design, hardware, lumber, equipment operation (small and heavy), construction, and home inspections. I began my career in the plant and advanced into design, gaining hands-on knowledge at every level.

I designed trusses using EdgeCad and Computrus to generate customer estimates and batch cutting reports for sawyers and builders. I prepared engineering packages for submission to Building and Safety Departments and use EdgeTrack for scheduling, delivery coordination, and billing. I’m now transitioning to MiTek SAPPHIRE Structure for advanced design and project management and have completed many training programs for MiTek SAPPHIRE and am ready for the next challenge.

ID: C18549

Remote Wall Panel Designer Relocation: USA - ALL States Wall panel designer with 10 years' experience including production builders, single family custom and small to MegaMultifamily projects. MiTek Sapphire software experience.

ID: C18426

Remote Truss Designer Relocation: Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Maryland, Florida, Georgia, Nebraska, REMOTE, Costa Rica, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Washington DC, Rhode Island, Saskatchewan, Oregon, Ontario, North Dakota, New York, New Mexico, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Nevada, Montana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Delaware, Conneticut, California, Arizona, Alaska

Offshore Truss Designer with MiTek experience. The candidate is a civil engineer with 6 years' truss design experience for companies in Texas and Florida. Prior work for BFS and smaller manufacturers. Bilingual Spanish/English with a company set up to make paying easy. Scored 89 on our truss design skills evaluation, which is near the senior designer level. He is also SBCA I & II certified. He is willing to go to work immediately.

Compensation: $65-75k as a subcontractor, no benefits or taxes.

We haven't represented offshore candidates in the past but feel this candidate is worth a shot. Please contact Thom for additional details.

ID: C10122

Designer/Design Manager - Truss Relocation: Iowa

Senior Designer. - Advanced. Candidate has 24 years Truss Ddesigner experience and 5 years Truss Design Manager experience. Products include floor trusses, roof trusses, I-Joists, and hardware. Markets include single family, custom, high end, multi-family, light commercial, and agriculture. Primary duties include design, layout, optimization, cutting/production documents, and takeoff. Secondary duties include checking others work, repairs, customer service, inside sales, software maintenance, training, and filling in for the Design Manager as needed. Software experience includes MiTek and Keymark. Training received includes WTCA Level 2. Education: High School Graduate and Batchelors degree.

Motivating factors: advancement, compensation, benefits, work location, job security, and relocation.

ID: C18604

Truss Designer - Remote (MiTek)

Relocation: Alberta

I currently design & layout roof trusses, floor trusses, I-Joists and EWP from PDF plans and specifications for pricing. Also does engineering using MiTek, then uploads to Management or MBA in the past. Once sold, and field measurements are provided, I update the project and clean up the layouts, trusses and release them to the shop. I also answer questions from sales and the shop as needed as well as training newer designers. Most of my projects are single family, but I have also done several apartments, hotels, assisted living centers, and other commercial projects. I want to grow, learn, and become a better designer to be a valued team member.

ID: C10853

Remote Design Manager | Remote Offshore Design Project Manager

Relocation: Texas, Georgia, USA - South

Top level Engineering/Design Management candidate, 14+- years experience Truss, 4+- Panel experience. Has experience building and integrating offshore design resources with internal design departments and training design managers to better utilize offshore capabilities. Large volume manufacturer experience. MiTek Sapphire design/layout proficient. Too confidential to go into more detail.

Compensation: $120k+

NEWs

Iran War Adds to Economic Headwinds

Posted April 16, 2026 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

NAHB Chief Economist Dr. Robert Dietz provided the following economic overview in his bi-weekly newsletter, Eye On the Economy.

A multidimensional supply shock is weakening the U.S. economy, fueled by the delayed effects of the 2025 trade wars and tariffs, elevated oil prices, and persistent policy uncertainty. These dynamics are now spilling over into the demand-side of the economy, as consumer confidence decreased significantly in April because of the Iran war and rising uncertainty.

Inflation jumped in March, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increasing from 2.4% to 3.3% on a year-over-year growth rate basis. This was the highest rate of consumer inflation in almost two years. Nearly three-quarters of the March increase was due to higher gas prices. In fact, overall energy prices were up almost 11%.

There was a sliver of good news in the CPI data, as core inflation (minus food and energy) was up only 2.6% year over year. However, producer prices are rising as well, with the PPI up 4% year-over-year in March, signaling higher business costs ahead.

With inflation higher, the probability of a Federal Reserve rate cut at any point in 2026 has been significantly reduced. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that the Fed may have to wait for additional clarity before making future policy changes.

Further, as a result of these headline macro headwinds, economic growth will be lower in 2026 than in 2025, and inflation and unemployment will be higher. Long-term interest rates remain elevated, with mortgage rates just below 6.4%.

NAHB is forecasting less than 2% GDP growth for 2026 and recession risk in the coming year has increased to 40%, perhaps higher if the already tenuous cease fire with Iran does not hold.

The March labor market data was positive, with 178,000 jobs created after 133,000 job losses in February. Nonetheless, the overall pace of job creation has slowed, with just an average of 68,000 jobs created per month over the first quarter of 2026. The number of open construction jobs remains relatively low, just 202,000 in February as the low-hire, low-fire labor market affects most industrial sectors.

With macro conditions weakened and uncertainty elevated, housing demand will decline in 2026. The housing market needs greater certainty and a reduction of headline risk to regain momentum.

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Single-Family Permits Decline Sharply to Start 2026

Posted April 17, 2026 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Residential construction activity began 2026 on a mixed note, with single-family permitting weakening significantly while multifamily activity remained relatively stable. Higher borrowing costs and affordability constraints continue to weigh on singlefamily construction, while multifamily permitting shows signs of resilience despite regional variation.

Over the first month of the year, the number of single-family permits issued nationwide reached 62,034 — a 15.2% decline compared with the January 2025 (73,115 permits). Multifamily permitting activity was essentially flat, with 38,215 permits issued nationwide, dropping 0.5% from the same period last year.

Regional Breakdown

Regionally, single-family permitting declined in all four regions: Midwest (down 9.1%), Northeast (down 10.6%), South (down 14.7%), West (down 20.1%).

The 10 states issuing the highest number of single-family permits accounted for 63.8% of all single-family permits issued nationwide. Texas led the country with 9,580 permits issued at the start of 2026, although this represented a 21.3% decline compared with January 2025. Florida — the second-highest state — saw permits fall by 14.9%, while North Carolina — ranked third — experienced a decline of 9.8%.

Multifamily permits increased in three of the four regions: Northeast (up 39.4%), West (up 35.5%), Midwest (up 10.9%).

The South saw a decline of 24.2%, driven largely by a 42% decrease in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA metropolitan areas and a 39% drop in the Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX metropolitan area.

The 10 states issuing the highest number of multifamily permits accounted for 63.1% of all multifamily permits issued nationwide. Over the first month of 2026, California — which issued the most multifamily permits — recorded a substantial increase of 119.2%. Texas — the second-highest state — posted a decline of 24.4%, while New York — ranking third — saw multifamily permits rise by 66.7%.

NAHB AVP of Forecasting and Analysis Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington provides more details, including interactive maps and top 10 markets for single-family and multifamily permitting, in this Eye on Housing post

NEWs

Builder Sentiment Posts Notable Decline on Economic Uncertainty

Posted April 15, 2026 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Economic uncertainty coupled with rising building material costs and interest rates resulted in a sharp decline in builder sentiment in April as the housing market enters into the heart of the spring buying season.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes fell four points to 34 in April, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the lowest level since September 2025.

“Builder sentiment has fallen back in spring as buyers face ongoing elevated interest rates and growing economic uncertainty,” said NAHB Chairman Bill Owens, a home builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio. “The year started with hopes for housing momentum growth, but risks with respect to the Iran war, energy costs, and declines for consumer confidence have slowed the market.”

“With oil prices higher in the U.S., 62% of builders reported suppliers have increased building material costs due to higher fuel prices, including gas and diesel,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “Energy costs make up approximately 4% of residential construction material input and service costs. With near-term economic risks elevated, 70% of builders reported challenges pricing homes given uncertainty about material costs.”

The latest HMI survey also revealed that 36% of builders cut prices in April, down slightly from 37% in March. The average price reduction was 5%, down from the 6% figure in March. The use of sales incentives was 60% in April, down from 64% in March, and marking the 13th consecutive month this share has reached 60% or higher.

Derived from a monthly survey that NAHB has been conducting for more than 40 years, the NAHB/Wells Fargo HMI gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sales expectations for the next six months as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as “high to very high,” “average” or “low to very low.” Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates that more builders view conditions as good than poor

All three of the major HMI indices posted losses in April. The HMI index gauging current sales conditions fell four points to 37 from March to April, the index measuring future sales dropped seven points to 42 and the index charting traffic of prospective buyers posted a three-point decline to 22.

Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast fell two points to 42, the Midwest dropped two points to 41, the South held constant at 35 and the West fell three points to 29.

HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS

More Young Adults Interested in the Construction Trades, but Challenges Persist

Posted April 20, 2026 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

A new study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that more young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 are interested in the construction trades but more work needs to be done to educate the public that there are increasing opportunities for rewarding, lucrative careers in the skilled trades.

The new research is similar to a study conducted in 2016. The NAHB survey found that the share of young adults interested in a career in the construction trades doubled from 3% a decade ago to 6% today. The two most important benefits young adults see in a career in the trades are good pay (73%) and the ability to obtain useful skills (65%).

With the nation facing a shortage of roughly 1.2 million housing units, closing the housing deficit will necessarily entail recruiting younger workers willing to start careers in construction trades. NAHB estimates the industry will need 2.2 million new skilled construction workers over the next three years to keep up with demand and account for industry expansion, retirements and departures.

“While this new research shows that more young adults have a positive attitude toward a career in the construction trades, many are still unaware that careers in the building trades offer workers well paid jobs and opportunities for growth in one of the most in-demand industries in the nation,” said NAHB Chairman Bill Owens, a home builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio. “High schools need to stress that the skilled trades are a viable alternative to four-year colleges that can pay above median wages and serve as a launching pad for small business development.”

The survey further reveals that 30% of young adults undecided about a future career path would likely give the trades a second look if compensation were high enough. Only 18% would have done so a decade ago. This shift points to a measurable improvement in young adults’ attitudes towards the construction trades over the last 10 years, where willingness to enter the field increases with higher levels of compensation.

Half of payroll workers in construction earn more than $60,320, and the top 25% make at least $81,510, according to the latest May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics and analysis by NAHB. In comparison, the U.S. median annual pay is $49,500, while the top quartile (the highest paid 25%) makes at least $78,810.

In a key finding for the home building industry, the NAHB survey found that 52% of undecided adults aged 18 to 25 who in theory would not choose a career in the trades would in fact reconsider that position for the right paycheck. That figure is at least $90,000 for 32% of this group and $60,000 to $80,000 for the other 20%. There are 12 construction occupations whose median annual wages already meet or exceed that threshold. View the full study on young adults and the construction trades here

NEWs

The States and Construction Trades Most Reliant on Immigrant Workers

Posted April 10, 2026 on NAHB Now | The News Blog of the National Association of Home Builders Reprinted with permission.

Immigrant work totaled 26.3% of the entire construction workforce in 2024, a record high. The number is even higher among construction trades as immigrants accounted for one-third of that workforce. A recent NAHB analysis details the states and construction trades most dependent on immigrant work.

Which construction trades are most reliant on immigrant work?

Immigrants play a key role in construction trades that are essential to home building. They comprise 57% of the drywall and ceiling tile installation force, 56% of all plasterers and stucco masons, 53% of roofers, 53% of painters, and 51% of carpet, floor and tile installers.

Laborers and carpenters account for more than a quarter of the industry’s labor force, and among them, 35% of carpenters and 43% of construction laborers are foreign-born.

Which states have the most immigrant workers in their construction workforce?

They are: California (42.1% of the workforce), Florida (40.6%), Texas (39%), Nevada (38.6%), New York (37.1%), and Maryland (37%). More than half of the nation’s 3 million immigrant construction workers reside in the four most-populated states: California, Texas, Florida and New York. California and Texas each are home to more than half a million foreign-born construction workers.

Which states have the least immigrant workers in their construction workforce?

They are: Vermont (1.4%), West Virginia (2.6%), Alaska (3.2%), Montana (4.3%), and New Hampshire (4.6%)

NAHB AVP of Housing Policy Research Natalia Siniavskaia provides more analysis, including interactive maps with data for each state, in this Eye on Housing post.

Simpson Strong-Tie Introduces Timber-SET™ Epoxy Adhesive for Glued-In Rods in Mass Timber Projects

Pleasanton, Calif., April 1, 2026 — Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, introduces Timber-SET™ epoxy gel, the first ICC-ES evaluated epoxy adhesive for anchoring threaded rod in glulam beams and columns. Timber-SET provides reliable, concealed connections throughout a mass timber structure and can be used for steel-to-wood, column-to-column, column-to-foundation, beam-tocolumn and beam splice connections.

Timber-SET develops high bond strength to wood substrates and provides a stiff load-transfer medium critical for structural anchorage. Its gel viscosity supports effective encapsulation of threaded rods while minimizing voids and limits adhesive flowing out of the hole during horizontal installations.

In addition, the Timber-SET thixotropic formulation allows adhesive to flow under pressure, and its neutral gray color minimizes potential for staining exposed timber

“Timber-SET offers good working time for installation and strong adhesion under dry wood conditions, making it well-suited for structural timber anchorage applications,” said Michael Weinert, senior product manager for Simpson Strong-Tie. “For a total glued-in rod solution, install Timber-SET with Simpson Strong-Tie threaded rods, centering and retaining caps, dispensing and cleaning tools, and Strong-Drive® structural screws.”

Timber-SET is approved for five rod diameter options: 1/2”, 5/8”, 3/4”, 7/8” and 1”. It comes in 32-ounce dual cartridges.

For more information, visit www.strongtie.com.

About Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.

Simpson Strong-Tie is the world leader in structural solutions — products and technology that help people design and build safer, stronger homes, buildings, and communities. As a pioneer in the building industry, we have an unmatched passion for problem solving through skillful engineering and thoughtful innovation. Our structural systems research and rigorous testing enable us to design code-listed, value-engineered solutions for a multitude of applications in wood, steel, and concrete structures. Our dedication to pursuing ever-better construction products and technology and to surrounding our customers with exceptional service and support has been core to our mission since 1956. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

RoMac Building Supply Announces Relocation To New Wildwood Facility

March 30, 2026 — RoMac Building Supply announced that it will be relocating operations from its Lady Lake location to its new Wildwood lumber facility. This move reflects RoMac’s continued commitment to providing reliable, efficient service to its customers across Central Florida.

The Lady Lake location has been an important part of RoMac’s history, and the company is proud of the team and relationships built there over the years. As the surrounding area has grown, however, the location has become less efficient for deliveries and customer access.

The new Wildwood facility, located at 3187 NE 37th Place, is strategically positioned closer to customers and offers improved access to the I-75 and Florida Turnpike, allowing for faster deliveries and more efficient service. This location will serve as the primary hub for customers previously served by our Lady Lake branch.

“This move puts us in a stronger position to serve our customers the way they expect,” said Dan Robuck III, CEO of RoMac Building Supply. “We’re investing in locations and infrastructure that allow us to operate more efficiently and support continued growth.”

Customers and vendor partners can expect a seamless transition, with no disruption to service. The same team will continue to support customer relationships, now operating out of the Wildwood and Leesburg locations.

As part of this transition, RoMac is also strengthening its leadership structure to support continued growth: Lewis Duke, who has led the Lady Lake location for 28 years, will take on the role of General Manager of Leesburg and Wildwood Operations; and Bart Lucas, who has led the Leesburg location for 25 years, will step into the role of Vice President of Sales, leading RoMac’s sales efforts across the organization.

“These are well-earned promotions for two leaders who have played a key role in our success,” said Jake Trapp, President of RoMac Building Supply. “Their leadership will help ensure we continue to operate at a high level as we grow.”

RoMac remains committed to its purpose of supplying communities and building up people. This move allows us to better serve our customers while creating stronger opportunities for our team.

About RoMac Building Supply

RoMac Building Supply is a family-owned building materials company headquartered in Leesburg, Florida. Serving professional builders and contractors across Central Florida, RoMac is committed to exceptional service, strong partnerships, and long-term community investment.

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Annandale Millwork and Allied Systems Corp Open Frogale Lumber Supply

April 11, 2026—We are officially open! On Tuesday, April 7th we cut the ribbon on Annandale Millwork and Allied Systems Corp and Frogale Lumber Supply’s brand new facility in Newport News, Virginia — and what an incredible day it was.

What started as a family business founded in 1952 by William C. Frogale has grown into something we are deeply proud of. Tuesday’s grand opening marks the next chapter in that seven-decade legacy — bringing full-service lumber, millwork, building materials, and building components to the Hampton Roads community.

We were honored to share this milestone with distinguished guests who believe in what we are building here:

• Craig Toalson, CAE, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Virginia

• Mayor Phillip Jones, 27th Mayor of Newport News

• Robert Frogale, Owner & President, Annandale Millwork & Allied Systems Corporation

• The Honorable Hung Cao, Under Secretary of the United States Navy

• Senator J.D. Danny Diggs, Virginia State Senate District 24

• Secretary Katie Frazier, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry

• Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, U.S. Representative, Virginia District 3

To our team, our trade partners, our builders, and our community — thank you. Newport News, we are ready to get to work. www.amcasc.com

NEWs

Mead Lumber Acquires OHC Supply

and Guthrie’s Ace Hardware

in Oklahoma

Omaha, Nebraska, April 2, 2026 – Mead Lumber Company today announced it has acquired OHC Supply and Guthrie’s Ace Hardware in Guthrie, Oklahoma, from owner Bill VanSant on April 1, 2026. With this acquisition, Mead Lumber now operates 56 locations across nine states, including its second and third locations in Oklahoma. The company’s first Oklahoma location is in Ada, acquired in 1995.

“We are excited to welcome OHC Supply and Guthrie’s Ace Hardware into the Mead Lumber family,” said Dave Anderson, President and CEO of Mead Lumber. “This acquisition marks continued growth for our company and strengthens our ability to serve professional contractors and communities in Oklahoma. We look forward to building on the strong foundation Bill and his team have established.”

Bill VanSant, owner of OHC Supply and Guthrie’s Ace Hardware, said the decision to sell to Mead Lumber was rooted in shared values and a focus on long-term success.

“Mead Lumber stood out as the right partner because of their commitment to their employees and the communities they serve,” said VanSant. “As an employee-owned company with a strong reputation for supporting pro customers, they are well-positioned to carry these businesses forward while taking care of the people who make them successful.”

Customers can expect business to continue as usual. Bill VanSant will remain involved in the transition, and the current team will continue in their roles, maintaining the relationships and service the community relies on.

Mead Lumber is a full-service building materials supplier focused on serving professional contractors, builders, and remodelers. As a 100% employee-owned company, Mead Lumber is committed to delivering expertise, service, and value across its growing footprint.

About Mead Lumber

Mead Lumber is a 100% Employee Owned Company that has become one of the leaders in the building materials industry, ranking in the top 15 nationally for companies serving Professional Builders. Mead Lumber now has 56 operating locations in Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming, including several lumber yards and retail hardware stores, six truss and wall panel manufacturing plants and a countertop manufacturing facility. Mead Lumber specializes in providing a complete line of materials to builders and homeowners including lumber, building materials, trusses & wall panels, millwork, kitchen cabinets and countertops, siding, decking, windows, doors and hardware.

NEWs

QXO to Acquire TopBuild for $17 Billion

GREENWICH, Conn. and DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — April 19, 2026 — QXO, Inc. today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire TopBuild Corp. for approximately $17 billion, significantly expanding QXO’s scale and capabilities across the building products value chain. The transaction is expected to be immediately and substantially accretive to the company’s earnings.

QXO will become the second largest publicly traded building products distributor in North America, with more than $18 billion of combined company revenue and more than $2 billion of combined company adjusted EBITDA.

TopBuild is the largest distributor and installer of insulation and related building products in North America. The combination will bring together QXO’s leading positions in roofing, waterproofing, lumber-related building materials, and associated products with TopBuild’s insulation capabilities, creating a higher-margin business with expansive value-added offerings for customers.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by the shareholders of TopBuild and QXO. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.

On April 1, 2026, QXO completed its previously announced acquisition of Kodiak Building Partners, a leading distributor of lumber, trusses, and other building materials, for approximately $2.25 billion. Upon completion of the TopBuild transaction, QXO will operate in an addressable market of more than $300 billion and hold leadership positions in key building product verticals in North America: #1 in insulation, #2 in roofing, #1 in waterproofing, and #1 or #2 in the lumber and building materials sector, in key geographies served.

Brad Jacobs, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of QXO, said: “Over the past 11 months, we’ve built QXO into a market leader through more than $13 billion of acquisitions, closing on Beacon in 2025 and Kodiak earlier this month. TopBuild will be our most significant acquisition yet, making QXO the second largest publicly traded building products distributor in North America, with more than $18 billion of combined company revenue and more than $2 billion of combined company adjusted EBITDA.”

Jacobs continued, “The TopBuild transaction will also give us critical mass in the insulation sector and expand our exposure to large, complex projects like data centers, where scale matters. TopBuild has a deep bench of best-in-class operators, reflected in its industry-leading adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 18%. We plan to replicate their best practices across QXO, including deploying their ‘special OPS’ teams to continuously improve operational excellence and customer service.”

Robert Buck, Chief Executive Officer of TopBuild, said: “We’re excited to join QXO and combine our leadership in insulation installation and specialty distribution with QXO’s scale, technology, and procurement capabilities. Together, we’ll enhance customer service, unlock meaningful cross-selling opportunities, and drive continued growth and operating efficiency. I’m proud of our team’s track record, including a 10-year sales CAGR of 13% and adjusted EPS CAGR of 31%. Thank you to the entire TopBuild team for delivering these exceptional results.”

Following the acquisition of TopBuild, QXO will have approximately 28,000 employees, 1,150 locations across all 50 U.S. states and seven Canadian provinces, and a fleet size of more than 10,000 vehicles.

Weekes and Snavely Unite Under New Brand: WS Building Materials

March 31, 2026 — Weekes Forest Products and Snavely Forest Products announced they are formally uniting under a single enterprise brand: WS Building Materials, a strategic step toward greater enterprise alignment and long-term growth. The company is a 100% employee-owned subsidiary of MacArthur Company, equipped for sustained growth, and continued investment in its markets nationwide. As part of this transition, the organization has introduced a unified visual brand identity that will be reflected across facilities, communications, and digital platforms, reinforcing a consistent and cohesive presence across all markets.

The announcement follows several years of increased collaboration between the organizations, including systems alignment, shared strategic planning, and cross-functional integration. The move responds directly to customer and supplier feedback requesting a more unified enterprise structure.

“This is an evolution, not a revolution,” said Scott Gardner, President of WS Building Materials. “Our customers and supplier partners have asked us to operate as a single enterprise rather than regional distributors. WS Building Materials strengthens our ability to align strategy, execution, and investment across our footprint.”

Gardner continued, “Our ESOP ownership culture, commitment to safety, and customer-first mindset remain unchanged. WS Building Materials reflects who we already are, one aligned organization with a long-term vision.” To learn more, visit wsbuildingmaterials.com.

About WS Building Materials

WS Building Materials is a building materials distribution company formed from the legacy organizations of Weekes Forest Products and Snavely Forest Products. As a wholly owned subsidiary of MacArthur Company, and 100% employee-owned, WS Building Materials combines deep industry experience, strong regional relationships to serve customers and supplier partners with service, reliability, and operational excellence. The company is committed to long-term partnerships, strategic growth, and investing in the people and capabilities that drive success across the supply chain.

84 Lumber Announces Brand Collaboration with Steel City

EIGHTY FOUR, Pa. (March 31, 2026) – 84 Lumber is announcing a new brand collaboration with Pittsburgh-based apparel company Steel City. The partnership brings together two hometown brands rooted in craftsmanship, grit, and pride, resulting in a limited-edition apparel collection that celebrates Pittsburgh heritage and American-made values.

Founded in 1956, 84 Lumber has been proudly rooted in Pittsburgh for 70 years, growing from a single store in Western Pennsylvania into a national company serving builders and communities across the country. The Steel City collaboration reflects that legacy through thoughtfully designed apparel that blends classic workwear influences with modern style.

“This collaboration is about more than apparel, it’s about storytelling,” said Amy Smiley, vice president of marketing at 84 Lumber. “For seven decades, 84 Lumber has been built by our associates who take pride in their work and where they come from. Partnering with Steel City allowed us to bring that pride to life in a way that feels authentic, iconic, and unmistakably Pittsburgh.”

The collection features a crewneck t-shirt and hoodie, and a baseball cap showcasing co-branded Steel City x 84 Lumber designs. Each piece is inspired by the hard-working spirit that defines both brands and the city they call home.

“When I was a kid, I spent a lot of my Saturday mornings at 84 Lumber with my dad. Loading 2x4s into the back of his blue pickup truck, instead of watching cartoons,” said Brandon Grbach, CEO of Steel City. “It felt like a chore! But when I grew up, and started building my own things, I realized the lumberyard is where creation begins like a painter choosing canvas and color. Now, collaborating between Steel City and 84 Lumber is full circle for me. It’s about making something real, practical, and meaningful that didn’t exist before.”

The Steel City x 84 Lumber collection officially launches March 31, with items available through Steel City’s website. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or steelcitybrand.com

About 84 Lumber

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Co. is the nation’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single-family and multifamily home construction, as well as commercial buildings. The company operates 320 facilities in 34 states, including stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, and engineered wood product centers. 84 Lumber also provides turnkey installation services for a wide range of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking, and drywall.

PLIB Launches Online Learning Portal With Fundamentals of Lumber Grading

March 31, 2026—Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau (PLIB) has launched Fundamentals of Lumber Grading, a comprehensive introductory online training course providing detailed foundational knowledge of lumber grading. With its deep dive into softwood lumber grading basics the course is an ideal training tool for anyone involved in buying, selling or trading softwood lumber, as well as architects, engineers, specifiers, contractors, code officials and others who design, build and inspect wood-based structures.

Fundamentals of Lumber Grading is the first of several training programs PLIB plans to offer at education. plib.org, the agency’s new Education and Training website. It serves as a prerequisite to PLIB’s three-course curriculum designed to help prospective mill graders learn to grade to the National Grade Rule standards for Studs, Light Framing, Structural Light Framing and Joists and Planks.

“Before anyone can learn to grade lumber they must have a clear understanding of how and why lumber grading came to be, the characteristics that impact lumber grades and how to measure and evaluate those characteristics,” explained Erik Wilson, PLIB’s Executive Vice President, “Those same fundamentals are critical to wood-based structural design, lumber specification and product use.

“Fundamentals of Lumber Grading is the most comprehensive online offering available. In addition to those wishing to become lumber graders, it will benefit anyone involved in structural lumber sales, purchasing, specification or use.”

Based on in-person training PLIB has provided its members for decades, Fundamentals accommodates a range of learning styles with a variety of content delivery methods, including instructional videos, hundreds of photos depicting characteristics found in real lumber, and interactive three-dimensional models derived from actual mill scanner data. Each of its 10 units is comprised of multiple lessons, each of which concludes with a quiz designed to confirm comprehension before learners can move to the next lesson. Subjects covered include: Lumber Grading Background, Tree Growth & Wood Structure, Working with Fractions, Lumber Grading Resources, Natural Characteristic identification and measurement, Manufacturing Characteristics identification and measurement, How Grades Relate to Design Values and Lumber Use, Lumber Drying Techniques, Expansion and Contraction, Parts of Grade Stamp, and Grade Rule Books and NGR Interpretations.

Fundamentals is offered as a stand-alone course for anyone involved in lumber sales, purchasing, wood design, specification and use. It is a required prerequisite for PLIB’s NGR grader training curriculum designed to prepare learners to become certified mill graders. Subsequent courses comprising that curriculum will be launched in the coming weeks.

To learn more about PLIB’s education and training offerings, visit plib.org/education. To enroll in Fundamentals of Lumber Grading, go to education.plib.org For details about all PLIB services, visit plib.org

Structural Engineering Report Explores the Future of AI Adoption, Workforce, and Teams

April 6, 2026—AI, workforce strain, and a value perception crisis are hitting the structural engineering profession all at once. Recent NCSEA quantitative and qualitative research suggest three strategic imperatives for SE firm leaders:

1. AI adoption must be governed, not improvised, with an emphasis on accountability, professional judgment, and trust.

2. Workforce development in structural engineering has shifted from a talent issue to a strategic capacity and risk issue, requiring mentoring, communication skills, and clearer career pathways.

3. Value perception is the profession’s central vulnerability, intensified by AI-driven efficiency and long-standing client misunderstanding of structural engineering’s role.

A new report from NCSEA, “The Future of Structural Engineering 2026,” synthesizes these findings and is now available through the NCSEA Store.

According to this research, a common approach to using AI in business was relying on native AI embedded in tools engineers are already using vs. standalone specialist tools.

As one leader said, “As soon as companies like Autodesk put solid AI into widely used programs like Revit, it benefits firms more than having a top-tier technology they must manage separately. Integrated, even average, AI is more useful than advanced tools that are hard to adopt.”

Senior engineers emphasized in discussions that young engineers must develop a strong command of fundamentals before relying on AI, even while 65% stated an important goal of their firms is to improve knowledge of new technology, software, and advanced techniques. Structured mentoring and frequent, actionable feedback were identified as key influential drivers to fostering early career growth.

The 25-page NCSEA report explores three main challenges, along with “what ‘done correctly’ looks like”:

1. The Future of Artificial Intelligence and Technology Adoption

2. The Future of Workforce Capacity, Development, and Retention

3. The Future of Teams.

To purchase the report, visit https://www.ncsea.com/product/white-paper-the-future-of-structuralengineering-2026/

INdustry NEWs

Call for Committee: Off-Site and Modular Construction Standard Consensus Committee

April 14, 2026—The International Code Council (ICC) is currently seeking manufacturers, builders, designers, plan reviewers, government officials and inspection agencies to volunteer for the Off-Site and Modular Construction Standard Consensus Committee (IS-OMSC).

The application deadline is May 15, 2026.

As an ANSI accredited standards developing organization, ICC has partnered with the Modular Building Institute (MBI) in the continued development of three existing comprehensive standards for off-site construction.

Once appointed, this committee will convene to develop the second editions of:

• ICC/MBI 1200, Standard for Off-Site Construction: Planning, Design, Fabrication and Assembly

• ICC/MBI 1205, Standard for Off-Site Construction: Inspection and Regulatory Compliance

• ICC/MBI 1210, Standard for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Systems, Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation in Off-site Construction

This committee will have primary responsibility for the development of minimum requirements and standards to safeguard the public health, safety, general welfare and address societal and industry challenges through design, construction, regulatory and testing requirements for off-site and modular construction.

To apply, please visit the ICC Committee application webpage. Please contact Karl Aittaniemi at 888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 4205 with any questions.

Why You Should Consider Applying for a Committee

ICC standards are developed to address building industry and societal challenges. Participating in these committees will help shape the standards used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable building and communities worldwide. To learn more about ICC committees, please visit here.

About the Author

The International Code Council is a nonprofit association that provides a wide range of building safety solutions, including product evaluation, accreditation, certification, codification and training. It develops model codes and standards used worldwide to construct safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures.

2026 Building Safety Month Contest

March 23, 2026—To celebrate Building Safety Month 2026, we’ll be giving away one building-themed LEGO® set to three lucky winners!

To enter, submit a one-minute-long video telling us about a new or updated building and how it benefits your community.

The International Code Council will review all submissions and select the top three videos that best showcase the building AND your creativity. The winning videos will be announced the week of May 25th on our social media pages and the Building Safety Journal

Winners will receive one of three popular building-themed LEGO® sets from ICC, thanking them for their participation and support.

Don’t miss your chance to win, submit the form by May 22, 2026!

To see last year’s winners, click here. Learn more about ICC’s 2026 Building Safety Month campaign here.

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Statistics Canada: Investment in Building Construction, February 2026

April 20, 2026—The total value of investment in building construction decreased $503.2 million (-2.1%) to $23.0 billion in February, driven by a decline in the residential sector (-3.3%). Meanwhile, the non-residential sector edged up 0.7%, mitigating the decrease. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 1.8% in February.

On a constant dollar basis (2023=100), the total value of investment in building construction in February declined 2.3% from the previous month to $21.1 billion and was down 1.5% year over year.

Multi-unit component weighs on residential investment

In February, investment in residential building construction was down $552.3 million to $16.0 billion. The decline in the multi-unit component (-6.9%) was moderated by an increase in the single-family component (+1.1%).

Investment in multi-unit dwelling construction decreased $630.0 million to $8.5 billion in February. Ontario (-$422.7 million) led the decline, supported by six other provinces and two territories.

Meanwhile, investment in single-family home construction rose $77.7 million to $7.4 billion in February. Gains in Quebec (+$103.1 million), New Brunswick (+$48.2 million) and Manitoba (+$24.2 million) were partially offset by declines in Ontario (-$54.4 million) and Saskatchewan (-$45.8 million).

Increases across non-residential construction sector

In February, the value of investment in non-residential building construction edged up by $49.1 million to $7.0 billion. Growth was broad-based across the institutional (+0.9%), industrial (+0.7%) and commercial (+0.6%) components.

Investment in the institutional component rose $20.2 million to $2.2 billion in February. Alberta (+$9.9 million), Ontario (+$9.5 million) and British Columbia (+$8.6 million) were the primary contributors to the increase. These slight gains were moderated by declines across four provinces and two territories, led by Quebec (-$5.8 million).

Investment in the industrial component increased $9.0 million to $1.3 billion in February, marking the first monthly increase since January 2025. Alberta (+$4.7 million) led the growth in February 2026, with utility building construction contributing to the provincial growth. Broad gains across six other provinces and one territory also supported the overall increase.

Meanwhile, commercial construction investment was up $19.9 million to $3.6 billion in February, led by Alberta (+$15.7 million).

For more information on construction, please visit the Construction statistics portal. For more information on housing, please visit the Housing statistics portal.

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The Last Word

John Houlihan’s

Contributions

Aquiet and unassuming man, John Houlihan was ushered into our business by the charismatic Dave Chambers, and together they built the foundation for today’s labor management practices. It helped that Chambers’ plant, Imperial Components, was close to the site of the Hawthorne Study, where one of the most intensive worker evaluations was conducted, and that Chicago was one of the hubs of industrial engineering practice. It also helped that Chambers had a burning desire to increase his plant capacity to expand his share of the booming demand for trusses in the top housing market in the country in the 1970s.

Chambers had done everything he could to boost production, in both capital investment and personnel. He replaced the wood tables in the plant with one of the earliest Sanford gantries, and he brought in the first semi-automated DePauw component saw. He promoted his night shift leader, Don Hershey, to run both shifts. As a final step, he brought in John Houlihan, an experienced industrial engineer who had earned his stripes in much heavier industrial venues. And from then on, labor management in the truss business would never be the same.

Houlihan apparently realized that Chambers’ business was so tightly tied to construction that he would need to apply a recent adaptation of the Scientific Management Theory called Short Interval Scheduling (SIS). Then he spent several weeks on the plant floor observing Imperial’s operations to develop reasonable expectancies (REs) for each task. For example, in truss assembly, he based REs on span and truss type, during a time when trusses were mainly common, scissors, mono, or flat. REs were then aggregated by job and recorded on a two-week Forecast and Master Schedule. While this was a highly useful summary of what the plant was expected to produce, its implementation was the key to its effectiveness.

Houlihan then applied the key finding of the Hawthorne study, that workers performed better when they knew they were being observed, by requiring hourly pickups at each work center. If the work center was behind schedule during a complete shift, a schedule miss was reported to management, along with the reason. At the end of a two-week schedule, REs could be adjusted to reflect actual performance, or other actions could be triggered to remedy the schedule miss.

The most important part of Houlihan’s onsite work, and where he spent most of his effort, was in the establishment of REs, which depended on plant layout, equipment, worker abilities, and other factors. After Houlihan’s work at Imperial’s very compact and enclosed plant in Chicago, he developed REs for Chambers’ open-air, TruTrus roof truss line in Phoenix, which ended up being markedly different, despite having the same equipment.

The most valuable product of Houlihan’s work was the Forecast and Master Schedule, because of its builtin feedback mechanism. The plant personnel, production management, and sales staff knew what to expect, and they could readily determine if there were any openings or over-bookings in the schedule. This feedback extended even to Houlihan’s oversight, as he received a faxed copy of the completed schedules at least once a month, and he would determine if return visits or other follow-up actions were necessary.

While the fundamental values embodied in Houlihan’s system were and are sound, some aspects of SIS were modified after Houlihan completed his work, likely at the behest of Don Hershey. Houlihan measured work and performance in terms of scheduled units, with 100 units per hour, apparently so that workers would be less aware of their production goals and would theoretically work at a steady pace. This was changed to man-minutes so that measurement and communication was improved at all levels. And finally, as trusses became increasingly complex, time studies were redone to determine REs as a function of pieces and joints rather than truss types and spans.

Houlihan’s methodology spread slowly at first, mainly through Dave Chambers’ leadership in TPI’s Component Manufacturers Council (CMC), precursor of WTCA. The early head of the Council, Charlie Barns of Barns Lumber in Dallas, and his partner, Dick Rotto at Trussway in Houston, were two of the first SIS converts, each with his own unique implementation and equipment. Yet, having John Houlihan install SIS at other plants was a hard sell for most manufacturers, since his services could cost as much as a component saw in the 1980s. As a result, only about 35 of 1500 component plants contracted with Houlihan directly for his services.

In an indirect way, though, Houlihan methodology gradually reached hundreds of component manufacturers, via their truss engineering software, especially as in-house computers became commonplace. Alpine was one of the first to incorporate Houlihan-like values, greatly broadening the use of these factors by the early 1990s. At TruTrus, for example, the expected man-minutes for each truss were extracted from the Alpine output and were annotated on the shop drawings. When a given job was completed, the actual man-minutes consumed were handwritten next to the expected. At the end of a shift, those figures were accumulated, and the all-important expected-over-actual ratio was determined. According to Houlihan, plants should operate at a 90% level or higher, a crucial performance metric often given high visibility within the walls of a business. Embodied in that numerical grade is the true genius of Houlihan’s work, a single metric that everyone could understand and be proud of or be motivated to improve.

John Houlihan’s work was crucial to the development of sound labor practices in the truss industry, and still is widely used, though in modified forms. That Houlihan visited a relative handful of plants over a relatively short time span, more than 30 years ago, attests to the lasting value of his work.

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