SPIB Grading Course
The SPIB lumber grading course is appropriate for both grader trainees and experienced graders who want to improve their skills. It deals primarily with the National Grading Rule (NGR) for 2" dimension lumber, grades No.1, No.2 and No.3, PRIME, Select Structural and 4x's may also be covered, depending on the participants. The goal of this course is to give participants an understanding and ability to evaluate all defects and characteristics covered in the NGR. SPIB instructors, Quality Supervisors, Joe Hill and Wes Merritt will focus on how to grade knots in dimension lumber without much reliance on math. You will learn how to measure every shape knot and how to compare the measurement to the width of the piece to make very accurate and reliable grade decisions on the line or in the shed.
Who should attend: Lumber Grader Trainees, Experienced Lumber Graders, Quality Control and Process Technicians, Supervision.
SPIB Quality Control Course
PIB Area Manager Daniel Carroll opens the course with a session focused on the critical components of sawmill and planer mill quality control. Leveraging over 25 years of field experience, Daniel delivers a focused exploration of industry best practices, emphasizing the importance of precision and consistency. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how accurate calibration and continuous equipment monitoring directly impact finished product quality. The session also introduces core principles of size control and explores the strategic use of optimization parameters.
Daniel further guides attendees through best practices in data tracking and collection, underscoring the value of reliable data in informed decision-making, process refinement, and accountability. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with actionable strategies to elevate mill performance, enhance product consistency, and improve customer satisfaction. Each attendee should leave with practical insights and proven methods they can implement in their own operations to achieve measurable quality improvements.
Course Details
Who should attend: Lumber Grader Trainees, Experienced Lumber Graders, Quality Control and Process Technicians, Supervision.
Location: Course will be held at the Fairfield Inn and Suites, Pensacola Beach, FL.
Cost: $600
Accommodations:
You will need to make your own arrangements.
Fairfield Inn and Suites
16 Via De Luna Drive
Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
850-932-1889
Group Hotel Rate: Book your group rate for SPIB Week of QT
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Pensacola Beach $219 - $249 USD per night, group rate cut off April 20, 2026
Lunch (Wed-Thurs) and Course materials provided.
A reception will be held immediately following class on the first day.