When I heard the nightly news would have a feature on the return of shop classes to high schools, my interest was piqued. Listening to the report, it was refreshing to hear the students’ excitement for the good job opportunities that would be available to them after graduation. Apparently,...

The day started cool but warmed up with plenty of sunshine and a light breeze; quite literally a perfect day for SBCA Capital Area Chapter’s 12th Annual Golf Tournament. Held on April 28 at the Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA, the purpose of the event was to have fun and raise...

Approximately 50 companies journeyed to Alda, NE in April for our National Trade Show and Product Showcase hosted by Triad/RUVO (Merrick Machine Company). This “By Invitation Only” event welcomed attendees from across the US, Canada, and Brazil to our manufacturing facility in the...

We are fortunate to work in this great industry and to have many ways to give back to our communities. We were given a reminder of that on April 8, 2025, at a very important dedication. We felt the excitement as we entered the crowded shell of what will become the Langetree Community Center...

Factory layouts are important in any industry, and none more so than in the structural building components industry. Not only do factory layouts allow you to simplify and streamline workflow processes, but they can also assist you in maximizing your productivity and improving overall...

Can you predict someone’s true colors by their resume alone? Probably not. The better indicator will always be actions. To the extent that a resume can capture past actions, it will help you get to know them. But, keep in mind that a complete picture will consist of more than bullet...

Truss manufacturers looking to attract younger truss designers might want to think outside of the box. We have found one key issue affecting many Gen-Z truss designers and have a solution that may help entice them to your company—offering a Gen-Z-preferred workweek. Consider this: Gen-Z...

For many years, there has been a great deal of discussion at industry events, in component industry board rooms, and even in this publication about a looming shortage of design technicians. So, what is behind the wood truss designer shortage and why is it such a pressing issue? And, how can we...

In every truss plant, there are three main arteries: the Truss Design Department, Production & Operations, and Sales. While all are vital, the design department is where everything begins—and where you need to keep your pulse. The production floor will build what shows up on their...

Truss manufacturers rely heavily on skilled and experienced professionals, especially truss designers. Yet, retaining these technical workers is a common challenge. Here’s what we have learned over the past few years on why truss designers often leave their jobs, focusing on the most...