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.

 

Steve Rountree President
Steve is responsible for the overall management and administration of the association. He also oversees the Marketing Committee and serves as the spokesperson for the association.
Contact Steve Rountree

Debbie Brady Vice President, Public Affairs
Debbie is responsible for all public affairs pertaining to the association and its members. She also oversees the Government and Regulatory Affairs Committee and sits on the Communications and Public Relations Committee.
Contact Debbie Brady

Gina Chaves Member Services Manager
Gina manages SLMA's membership database. She also coordinates all Manufacturer Roundtables and is responsible for special publications including the SLMA Membership Directory and Wage Scale Survey. Alison serves on the Associate Member Committee, the Membership Committee and the Production & Management Issues Committee.
Contact Gina Chaves

Wendy Burnett Director of Communications and Public Relations
Wendy manages SLMA's public relations efforts. She is responsible for publishing the weekly and quarterly versions of the association's newsletter, Management Update. She serves on the Communications and Public Relations Committee.
Contact Wendy Burnett

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