WCA and WoodLINKS USA finalize merger

WoodLINKS USA and The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America announced that each group’s board of directors approved combining the two organizations.

The two wood industry educational organizations announced in February they were studying a merger.

The merger allows WoodLINKS USA members to become education members of WCA. The WCA has developed industry-recognized skill standards and a certification system for the wood industry. This agreement also furthers the partnership created in 2010 between the two organizations.

Under the merger, all current school members of WoodLINKS USA will become Education Members of the merged organization and will be provided with the same benefits afforded them under their membership terms with WoodLINKS USA. The Education Membership is also open to new schools for a $250 annual fee.

“Overall, this merger allows both organizations to expand their reach through shared resources,” WoodLINKS USA president Patrick Molzahn said.

A special WCA credential for high school students, the Saw Blade certificate, was created to help students begin their credentialing journey and career path.

An education committee was created to help develop enhanced membership benefits and training materials for participating teachers. The new committee also is charged with:

• Aligning high school and post-secondary curriculum with industry standards that address domestic needs and international competitiveness

• Enhance and record the skill level of incumbent workers through the equitable, observable, and measurable criteria of the standards and assessments.

• Increase the supply and proficiency of skilled workers coming into the industry.