The WCMA is gearing up for our ​2024 Fall Conference and Plant Tour Event. The number one benefit of membership in the WCMA, according to our members, is the networking opportunities we offer. This event presents an excellent opportunity to network with members, Tech Partners, and non-members, and have open discussions on common concerns. We will be touring several production facilities which will give attendees a unique opportunity to observe innovative woodworking manufacturing operations and discover new techniques, exchange ideas, and learn about alternative manufacturing methods.
 
Held in the Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Iowa area, we will be touring several unique and successful plants that are an eclectic mix of mouldings, cabinet parts, millwork, lumber processing, and more. At each plant, attendees will see first-hand how companies are managing various aspects of wood processing, including optimization and scanning, materials handling, gluing, lean manufacturing, tooling, and machining. One of the most valuable parts of these tours is seeing different methods of manufacturing and observing what other companies are doing successfully. I know as owners and managers of manufacturing facilities, it is sometimes hard to take the time for your own growth and professional development, but let me assure you, this event is a must attend!
 
Non-members are encouraged to attend to see what the WCMA is all about. Any company that qualifies for membership may attend the event at a higher registration rate. If you decide to become a member within 60 days of the tours, the WCMA will refund the difference in registration cost and will discount your 2025 Annual Dues by 15%. We are proud of our new efforts and want to share our progress with potential members. We are sure that after participating in these excellent networking opportunities you will be excited to join.
 
If you have not yet registered for the 2024 Fall Conference and Plant Tour event, please visit the event website or call the office at 651-332-6332 or email us at [email protected]. Waterloo/Cedar Falls is a great area, and the fall is an excellent time to visit, and we encourage you to spend an extra day or two in the area. We look forward to seeing you!
 
Working with WCMA Members
The benefits of working with WCMA member companies are clear. Outsourcing wood components can oftentimes save money and enables you to take advantage of other’s design and production expertise, thereby saving on the personnel and capital expenditures that would otherwise be required if you were to produce the parts in-house.
 
If any of these thoughts run through your head, outsourcing is most likely the best decision you can make:

• I need to increase my productivity, quality, consistency and efficiency
• I’d like to expand my product offerings
• I have trouble training new employees
• I could get more sales if I just had the time
• Machinery costs too much
• It’s hard to know exact job costs before starting

 
Finding a supplier that can consistently produce quality components and be responsive to your needs is easier than ever before. Just give us a call at 651-332-6332 or visit our source guide at www.wcma.com/source_guide.html. You will be provided with a list of WCMA Member Companies that will meet your exact requirements for dimension and component products made from hardwoods, softwoods, and engineered wood materials. It’s that easy!
We look forward to hearing from you!