Advanced Search
September 23, 2020
Find out more about the briefings in this series below:
Overview of the Workforce Wednesdays series
The United States can lower domestic and global greenhouse gas emissions by supporting innovation and expanding low-carbon industries. Mass timber provides a prime opportunity to diversify the American economy and lower emissions while providing steady, family-sustaining employment for a skilled workforce. Panelists discussed the environmental and workforce benefits of mass timber, from manufacturing to construction. Representative Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.), forester and sponsor of the Trillion Trees Act, provided opening remarks.
The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) held a series of online briefings on workforce development and policies and programs that can support a low-carbon recovery from the COVID-19 economic crisis. Speakers discussed major challenges faced in each area and solutions providing economic and environmental benefits to communities across the country.
Supplemental EESI materials:
Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)
Jennifer Cover, President and CEO of WoodWorks
Tyler Freres, Vice President of Freres Lumber CO., Inc.
Carter Sterling, CEO of Sterling Solutions
Q&A Session
Q: Can you speak more on how your products are made? What kinds of skills are needed to work in these facilities?
Q: Do trees continue to sequester carbon after harvesting? What is the relationship between timber and carbon sequestration? What are other environmental benefits associated with the industry?
Q: Can you use diseased trees, insect-infested trees, and damaged trees in CLT?
Q: What is the role of building codes in your industry’s growth potential? Are they updated enough to drive market expansion?
Highlights compiled by Hamilton Steimer