#United States #84 Lumber #Eighty Four #construction careers #truss manufacturing

Building Futures: Careers in Truss Manufacturing at 84 Lumber

In recognition of Careers in Construction Month, 84 Lumber is placing a spotlight on the diverse career opportunities available within the truss manufacturing sector. This initiative not only showcases the various roles at 84 Lumber but also emphasizes the importance of early career development in the construction industry.

At the heart of this initiative lies the Winchester, Virginia facility, where associates are provided with hands-on training in all facets of truss production, from design and dispatch to customer service. The training program aims to cultivate leadership skills and assist associates in identifying their strengths and career aspirations. As Ken Kucera, Vice President of Installed Sales and Manufacturing at 84 Lumber, states, “We want to promote from within in anything we do... If you work hard, we’ll support you, we’ll give you training, we’ll give you opportunities.”

The training typically spans nine to twelve months, during which associates are immersed in various production tasks such as machine operation, truck loading, and teamwork with different departments. This exposure is crucial in helping participants discover their passions within the company. According to Scott Compton, National Production Manager for 84 Components, the program is designed to be flexible, allowing individuals to shift their career focus based on their experiences during training.

The program, relaunched a couple of years ago, has had significant success, with over 30 graduates, many of whom have advanced to managerial and specialized roles. One notable success story is Cade Templeton. After graduating from Shenandoah University and undergoing the training program, he quickly ascended from a production manager to plant manager within a year. His rapid progression is a testament to the opportunities available within 84 Lumber.

Compton himself embodies the career-development ethos at 84 Lumber. He began his journey as an entry-level truss builder nearly three decades ago and has since climbed the corporate ladder to hold various leadership positions. Now, as a mentor, he aids in the growth of new manufacturing leaders across the organization.

84 Lumber emphasizes that a career with them is not just a job, but a lifelong professional journey. Kucera urges prospective employees to inquire about the company’s commitment to employee growth during interviews, reinforcing that “If you work hard, we’ll support you, we’ll give you training, we’ll give you opportunities.”

With 22 truss plants across 13 states and plans for further expansion, 84 Lumber is actively cultivating a workforce equipped with practical skills, design knowledge, and leadership abilities—a combination that is increasingly vital in today's evolving construction landscape.

To discover more about the career paths available in truss manufacturing at 84 Lumber, interested individuals can visit 84Lumber.com/careers.

About 84 Lumber

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Company stands as the leading supplier of building materials in the U.S. This year, the company proudly commemorates 70 years of dedicated service to the residential and commercial construction industries. A certified women-owned business, 84 Lumber operates over 320 facilities across 34 states and is known for its strong workplace culture. The company has received multiple accolades, including being named one of Newsweek's Most Trustworthy Companies in America for three consecutive years. Follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more updates.