We are the education division of Lake States Lumber Association, providing training to industry employees in areas such as Hardwood Lumber Grading, Lean Manufacturing, Sawmill or Dry Kiln Startup and Expansion, Conversion to Wood Fire Boiler and others.
LSLA Education regularly offers courses in Hardwood Lumber Grading and Sawing, Edging & Trimming, as well as other courses designed to provide training to employees in the wood industry. Please check back periodically for information on training courses, which will be listed here.
We also offer funding opportunities for organizations that provide education about and for the forest industry. If your organization is interested in applying for funding, fill out the Funding Request Application and submit it to us at lsla@lsla.com or fax it to us at (906) 875-3724.
Louis “Lumber Lou” Chicquette Memorial Scholarship
The Louis Larkin Chicquette Memorial Scholarship honors the remarkable career and lifelong dedication of Louis Larkin Chicquette to the lumber industry. Born on March 20, 1924, Lou founded the Esdaile Box and Lumber Company in 1945, a business that included a sawmill and small factory. His deep knowledge, integrity, and gregarious nature made him a respected figure in the lumber industry for 79 years.
Lou's passion for his work was unwavering. Even after selling his business to Webster Lumber Company, where he served as Vice President of Sales, he continued to contribute to the industry. He worked with Industrial Hardwood Products, later known as Rockland Flooring, and remained a contract employee with Quality One Woodwork until his passing on August 7, 2024. Lou was also a founding member of the Lake States Lumber Association, further exemplifying his commitment to the industry.
The scholarship aims to support students who share Lou's enthusiasm and commitment to the forest products industry, encouraging them to pursue their careers with the same fervor and dedication that Lou demonstrated throughout his life. The scholarship may be awarded to a junior or senior enrolled in a four-year institution or a second-year student enrolled in a two-year institution. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited Forestry/Wood Products program for the full school year, not graduating mid – term.
The Gus Welter Leadership & Impact Award
Award Description
The Gus Welter Leadership & Impact Award was established by LSLA to honor the memory and legacy of Gus, a well-respected leader and dedicated member of lumber industry. Gus was known for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people and organizations he served.
This annual award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the same spirit, values, and impact that Gus brought to our industry. It is the highest honor given by our association and serves as a reminder of the positive difference one person can make.
This is a non-monetary award presented annually at the LSLA Winter Meeting.
Award Criteria
- Leadership & Integrity--
Demonstrates strong leadership and high ethical standards within their organization and the industry.
- Service to the Industry--
Actively contributes to the growth, development, or improvement of the industry through engagement, mentorship, or advocacy.
- Commitment to People--
Supports and uplifts others through collaboration, respect, and a people-first approach.
- Innovation or Initiative--
Shows initiative in solving problems or improving operations, and brings innovation to their work or the broader industry.
- Embodying the Spirit of Gus--
Reflects the values Gus was known for—such as humility, perseverance, community service, generosity, or dedication to craft.
Eligibility
- Nominees must be affiliated with the LSLA or the Forestry Industry.
- Individuals at any level within their organization may be nominated.
- Current board members of LSLA are not eligible.
Submission Instructions
Please submit nominations to lsla@lsla.com by December 1, 2025.
Nomination Application Form
Educational Courses
Webinars
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Careers in the Wood Industry
Come make a career with us! The wood industry is looking for the next generation of skilled workers.
See the following information to learn more about these rewarding opportunities in your community.
Education in Wood Products/Forestry
WOOD PRODUCTS RELATED EDUCATION
Wisconsin
Northcentral Technical College
Wood Science – Associate Degree with emphases in
- Business and Engineering Technology
- Furniture Design and Craftsmanship
Wood Technology – Technical Diploma
https://www.ntc.edu
National Hardwood Lumber Association
Inspector Training School
http://www.nhla.com
Fox Valley Technical College
Wood Manufacturing Technology – Technical Diploma
https://www.fvtc.edu
Madison College
Cabinet Making and Millwork – Technical Diploma
https://madisoncollege.edu
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Forest Science – Baccalaureate Degree
http://www.wisc.edu
FORESTRY RELATED EDUCATION
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point
Forestry – Baccalaureate Degree
https://www.uwsp.edu
Fox Valley Technical College
Natural Resource Management—Associate Degree
https://www.fvtc.edu
Michigan
Michigan State University
Forestry—Baccalaureate Degree
http://www.msu.edu
Michigan Technological University
Forestry—Baccalaureate Degree
http://www.mtu.edu
Michigan Technological University
Sustainable Bioproducts - Bachelor's Degree
https://www.mtu.edu/forest/undergraduate/sustainable-bioproducts/
Gogebic Community College
Forestry Technology—Associate Degree
http://www.gogebic.edu
Kirtland
Wood Science Technology Degrees
https://www.kirtland.edu/wood-science-technology