Truss Production, Reimagined Wendy Boyd Truss production has changed dramatically over the past few decades. What once relied heavily on manual jig systems, operator experience, and physically demanding processes has steadily evolved into a more connected, automated, and data-driven environment. Today, elements such as software,... Read More September 2026 Issue #18326 Page 29
Let’s Talk JAX at BCMC Kathryn Pedde Are you ready to see JAX-XL retrieve materials for a lumberyard the way JAX retrieves lumber for a truss plant? In our BCMC booth, you’ll be able to track the movement of lumber and sheet goods from bunks to staging areas live on a monitor via 3D digital twin technology, all without manual... Read More September 2026 Issue #18326 Page 88
Affordable Options for a Resilient Supply Chain Garry Roehr Those of us who have spent decades in our industry know it is one characterized by seasonal and cyclical fluctuations. Living through multiple downturns and periods of growth forces us to refine our thought processes and shapes our character. When times are tough, we need to question previous... Read More September 2026 Issue #18326 Page 99
Beyond the Traditional Loan: Matching Equipment Financing to Your Realities Carl Villella Traditional, rigid commercial loans often fail component manufacturers because loan payments begin immediately and remain constant, regardless of the realities of a new equipment rollout. The initial ramp-up period involves critical, non-revenue-generating phases: installation, personnel... Read More September 2026 Issue #18326 Page 117
Find Smarter Production Solutions at BCMC 2026 Wendy Boyd Often, when we write about BCMC, it’s after the event – when we’re looking back and reflecting on the exchanges we had, the questions we were asked, and the ideas that stayed with us long after the show floor closed. This year, I wanted to write before the event, as we look... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 29
Symmetrical Batching is Cut-by-Truss at High Velocity Edmond Lim, P.Eng. For years, component manufacturers have faced a classic operational dilemma: choose the high-volume speed of traditional batch cutting on component saws or opt for the simplified material flow of cut-by-truss on linear saws. Because linear saws could “stretch”/optimize lumber, this... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 38
The Real Cost of a Component Saw Michael Bell When The Truss Company purchased its first RetroC component saw in 2014, the company was understandably skeptical. At the time, the RetroC was still a relatively new product, and some questioned whether it could hold up in a high-volume production environment. The saw would be expected to... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 49
What Should Be Measured to Improve ROI on a Wall Panel Line? Garry Roehr We often measure productivity and capacity using units that are readily available. Sometimes this can be described as looking for lost car keys under a streetlamp not because that’s where they were lost but because that’s where the light is better. Examples of readily available units... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 79
Simpson Strong-Tie Unveils Next-Generation Solutions at BCMC 2026 Simpson Strong-Tie Staff Join us at our booth at the BCMC Show in Columbus for a first look at the latest innovations designed to empower component manufacturers. Simpson Strong-Tie is excited to showcase new software, advanced equipment, and personalized services – all engineered to help your business grow. [For... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 150
What to Expect at BCMC 2026 Christine Wagner The Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) and Framer Summit returns to Columbus, Ohio, September 14–18, bringing together component manufacturers, suppliers, framers, and industry professionals for a week centered on practical learning, emerging technology, and face-to-face... Read More August 2026 Issue #18325 Page 160