Over the past year, Corey Lane, SBCA's Safety Coordinator has been doing extensive behind-the-scenes work to strengthen and expand SBCA's safety resources. In this episode of the Component Connection, we discuss that progress and the plan for transforming it into new and revised education within the SBCA Academy. From enhanced operational safety materials to expanded practical guidance and tools, Corey shares what he’s developed and how we’re using it to update existing courses, replace outdated content, and build stronger, more accessible training for component manufacturers.

In this episode, we talk with Talia Montrose, SBCA Membership Coordinator, who works directly with chapters nationwide. We discuss how chapters operate, the benefits of getting involved, and what members gain from attending chapter meetings. From local connections to meaningful takeaways, this conversation highlights how chapters strengthen engagement and bring real value to SBCA members at the regional level.

A great listen for anyone looking to get more connected through SBCA.

In this episode, Molly Butz is joined by Justin Binning and Ken Timmins with American International Forest Products (AIFP) who provide a snapshot of the current lumber market. Tune in as Justin and Ken discuss why lumber markets have seen more upward movement in the past six weeks than all of 2025, fueled by housing optimism on the heels of recent mill curtailments, and what that could mean for 2026. Justin has been with AIFP since 2010 with a focus in Southern Yellow Pine and Ken has been with AIFP since 2017, specializing in Fir species. Both specialize in high grade lumber for the component manufacturing industry.

In this episode, Sean Shields, Director of Marketing for SBCA, is joined by Ed Robbins, PE, President of P.E. Robbins and a member of the SBCA E&T Committee, where they discuss the SBCA Knowledge Center and the value of the technical guidance contained in this online library.

In this episode, Ashley Baker, SBCA's Director of Education, and Jeremey Hurley, Senior Vice President of Program Operations at Home Builders Institute (HBI), discuss HBI's nationally recognized training programs and how they're helping solve one of the industry’s biggest challenges: workforce development. They discuss HBI’s industry-driven curriculum, including their pre-apprenticeship training model, why this work is especially significant to SBCA, and how component manufacturers can actively engage to support and benefit from these programs. They also share a sneak peek at what HBI and SBCA are exploring together to strengthen talent pipelines and create new pathways into the structural component industry.

Many operational risks in component manufacturing don’t show up all at once—they build quietly over time.

In this two part episode, Jess Lohse, Executive Director of SBCA, and Abby Langenberg, Director of Business Development, discuss common communication and consistency challenges between the plant and the jobsite, and how small gaps in information, process, and documentation can lead to larger downstream issues across operations. They also explore practical ways manufacturers can identify and address these “quiet risks” before they impact quality, schedules, or builder trust.

Many operational risks in component manufacturing don’t show up all at once—they build quietly over time.

In this two part episode, Jess Lohse, Executive Director of SBCA, and Abby Langenberg, Director of Business Development, discuss common communication and consistency challenges between the plant and the jobsite, and how small gaps in information, process, and documentation can lead to larger downstream issues across operations. They also explore practical ways manufacturers can identify and address these “quiet risks” before they impact quality, schedules, or builder trust.

2026 is a pivotal year for education and training in the SBCA Academy. In this solo episode, Ashley Baker, SBCA's Director of Education highlights the progress made in 2025, and sheds light on what’s next. Updated and advanced truss technician training, leadership development, and seamless LMS integration elevate the Academy and make learning even more efficient for companies and their teams. Whether you’re a longtime member or simply curious about the industry, this episode offers a clear and exciting look at what’s ahead and why it matters.

In this episode, Sean Shields, Director of Marketing for SBCA, is joined by Jay Jones, P.E., Executive Director of the Truss Plate Institute (TPI). They discuss two industry standards TPI has started to develop, and Jay provides insight into how they may impact the structural building component industry.

In this episode, Molly Butz is joined by Justin Binning and Ken Timmins with American International Forest Products (AIFP) who provide a snapshot of the current lumber market. Tune in for an end of the year wrap up with updates on transportation, curtailments, and more. Justin has been with AIFP since 2010 with a focus in Southern Yellow Pine and Ken has been with AIFP since 2017, specializing in Fir species. Both specialize in high grade lumber for the component manufacturing industry.