AHEC ‘Lunch and Learn’ – An Introduction to Sustainable American Hardwoods

Discover the right American hardwood species for your next project via a special bespoke in-person or online session tailored for your practice.

From the dramatic open grain of American red oak to the smooth, luminous clarity of hard maple and the warm, developing patina of American cherry, or the traditional white oak found in American forests, there are a number of hardwood species on offer which can deliver high strength-to-weight ratios, excellent dimensional stability, and superior machining qualities. By broadening their species knowledge, specifiers can lower project costs, create unique and beautiful projects, and support balanced, regenerative forest management.

To help you select the ideal timber for your next design, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) is now offering bespoke ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions. – Tailored to your practice, these sessions can be delivered during your team’s lunch break, providing practical guidance on selecting the right American hardwoods for your work. Presented by technical timber specialist Neil Summers – who brings over 25 years of industry experience in timber technology and industrial wood protection – these sessions offer architects, specifiers, and designers actionable guidance on specifying sustainable, high-performing, and aesthetically striking American hardwoods.

Beyond interior joinery and furniture, the session explores how technical innovation is expanding the footprint of hardwoods in modern construction, whether in terms of structural applications or the advanced thermal modification processes (TMT) that transform interior species into durable, high-performance materials for external cladding and decking. Equip your practice with expert material knowledge and elevate your next build. Register your interest to book a custom session for your team using the button below.

Who Should Attend?
Architects, interior designers, structural engineers, sustainability consultants, and trade specifiers looking to elevate their material specifications, meet environmental targets, and unlock new creative possibilities with timber.

Book Your Practice Session
Empower your practice with expert timber knowledge. To register your interest and schedule an in-person or virtual session for your team, please click the button below.