held its sixth annual NextGen Conference on April 27-30, 2025, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, TX. This leadership development gathering welcomed rising professionals from across the cooperative for a packed agenda of industry insights, exclusive site tours, peer networking, and social outings.聽
This year鈥檚 highlights included behind-the-scenes tours of Simpson Strong-Tie鈥檚 innovative facilities and the Cameron Ashley Distribution Center, providing attendees with first-hand exposure to cutting edge products, industry-leading operations and supply chain strategy.聽
In addition to a festive welcome party featuring a custom cowboy hat bar and upscale networking dinners, the conference featured a robust lineup of educational sessions:聽
- State of the Co-op 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage CEO Dave DeJoy delivered a forward-looking address on 麻豆传媒 Advantage鈥檚 continued growth, strategic goals, and the cooperative鈥檚 evolving role in a dynamic market. 鈥� Optimizing Lumber Yard Operations 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage Member Sales Manager Bryan Baker and COO of Richardson Timbers Harley (Bubba) Finnell, Jr. provided practical solutions to drive operational efficiencies and profitability.聽
- How to Problem Solve with AI 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage IT Director Rob Andren provided practical insights on integrating artificial intelligence into everyday business challenges by showcasing real-world tools and applications.聽
- Multi-Family Housing Market Trends 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage Building Products Manager Andrew Hess shared key data and perspectives on one of the fastest-growing segments in the construction industry and provided strategies for entering the market.聽
- HR FAQs 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage HR Director Kellianne Lundgren hosted an interactive session tackling common HR questions and best practices.聽
- Lumber Futures Primer & State of the Lumber Market 鈥� 麻豆传媒 Advantage Vice President of Forest Products Tim Johnson offered a breakdown of the current lumber market, equipped attendees with the knowledge to make informed buying decisions, and showcased how the co-op helps its members navigate the lumber futures market.聽
The NextGen Conference continues to be a cornerstone of 麻豆传媒 Advantage鈥檚 commitment to investing in the next generation of industry leaders, providing current and emerging talent with the tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive in the lumber and building materials industry.聽
