There are jobs to be had in the wood products industry. They need you. They need you. They need you to educate yourselves and help steer their companies into the next millennium.

Here’s a mind-blowing factoid for you.

Industry Canada says there is a immediate need for 2,000 wood processing specialists in Canada, and a long-term need for 3,500. They also estimate the need is eight times that in the United States.

WE NEED SKILLED WORKERS

Why does the wood products industry need skilled workers?

Four reasons…

1. Technological Advances

The wood products industry is in the midst of a technological revolution. Plants are renovating. New high-tech machines are coming fast and furious. Companies need employees who can operate, install, fix and dream up these machines. And, of course, these machines are all computerized. In fact, everything is computerized. In this industry, you have to ship, draft, design and sell on computers. And that takes skill.

2. Declining Timber Supply

Let’s face it. The timber supply is not what it once was. Companies are being forced to do more with each log, in order to maximize both the wood and their profits. Many companies are starting new value-added initiatives. And they need employees who can help ignite these initiatives and make them a success.

3. Remaining Competitive

Technology and the declining timber supply are forcing companies to change. If they don’t, they won’t survive. They have to be more innovative and more competitive.

They have to be smarter.

And that’s why they want an educated work force. People who can adapt and think. People who can help keep these companies profitable for years to come.
4. Shortage of Skilled Workers

There quite simply aren’t enough skilled workers to go around. The stats back it up and the anecdotal evidence is huge. At the University of British Columbia, wood processing students are getting 6 or 7 job offers in their third year. Imagine that.

The need for skilled workers is real.

But you should hear it from the people most affected – the industry leaders and educators.

SAYS WHO?

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