In 1961, 46 lumber manufacturers from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina gathered to discuss the lack of organized representation of southeastern lumber manufacturers. This group agreed to form a new regional association to be named the Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association.

During these early years, SLMA was primarily concerned with transportation problems, particularly discriminatory rail rates on lumber, and grading and grade marking problems.

SLMA has developed into a well-rounded association representing independent lumber manufacturers throughout the southeast. SLMA has grown to 17 states with the continued goal of helping perpetuate family-owned businesses - businesses that are the essence of many communities throughout the southeast.

SLMA continues to provide a unique service to independent lumber manufacturers regardless of company size or species manufactured. With emphasis on government affairs, marketing and management and operational issues, the staff and leadership of SLMA develop programs for the needs of the independent lumber manufacturer.

 

 

Debbie Burns President
Debbie is responsible for the overall management and administration of the association. She also serves as spokesperson for the association. Debbie oversees all public affairs pertaining to the association and its members. In addition, she oversees Marketing Committee and sits on the Government and Regulatory Affairs Committee.
Contact Debbie

Christy Sammon Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs
Christy oversees all of SLMA's federal legislative efforts. She monitors OSHA and EPA issues, as well as all other government and legislative issues affecting members. Christy serves on the Government and Regulatory Affairs Committee.
Contact Christy

Wade Camp Director of Economic Services
Wade tracks data on shipments, sales, and domestic and international markets. He also conducts industry surveys on operational costs, wages, by-products and other data useful to manufacturers. Wade is SLMA's liaison for the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and organizes and facilitates Manufacturers Roundtables.
Contact Wade

Erica Strickland Communications and Membership Manager
Erica manages all of the communication and membership initiatives at SLMA. She is in charge of the weekly newsletter, website content, media relations, membership inquiries, conference registrations and the membership directory.
Contact Erica

Beverly Knight Accounting Manager
Beverly is responsible for the daily administrative activities of the office. She also handles general bookkeeping activities.
Contact Beverly