Over 80 people gathered at The Lodge at Giants Ridge near Biwabik to discuss how to harness Minnesota’s unique forest resources, cutting-edge design and innovations to open access to new and expanded markets. It is evident from the completed conference evaluations that the participants appreciated the conference as a time and place to network, learn and invigorate their businesses.

Attendees were motivated to come to the conference because of the high-caliber presenters, especially Jim Brandenburg, David Salmela, and Todd Siler, and the opportunity to network with colleagues. Several panel discussions provided information on topics including the adaptation of design traditions from other regions, best practices in the industry, and how to work more effectively with gatekeepers including specifiers and architects.

Another highlight of the conference was the presentation of the 2006 Wood Products Manufacturing Industry Achievement Awards. Besides gaining valuable business contacts, participants noted they learned important insights into practices and applications of innovation, the value of ideation and brainstorming, and connecting good design to added value.

Finally, several participants communicated their hope that the conference be carried forward next year, despite the Blandin Foundation’s announcement that they would be stepping back from taking an active role in organizing future Wood Products Manufacturing Industry conferences.

• Program Agenda
• Speaker Bios and Abstracts
• Conference Evaluation

Wednesday evening Jim Brandenburg and David Salmela through words and images deliver an inspirational message of innovation and creativity.

Todd Siler, visual artist, author, inventor and educator challenged participants to work collectively and visually to show-n-share their innovative answer to the question, "What's the most important thing you need to do with your company to flourish in today's global market?" Siler's objective: to inspire innovative thinking company-wide with the purpose of continually improving business operations by tapping everyone’s creative potential and desire to succeed.

The 2006 Minnesota Wood Products Manufacturing Industry Achievement Awards winners were honored during a luncheon held in their honor. Blandin Foundation Trustee Bruce Stender presented the awards.

After lunch the award winners shared best practices during a panel discussion, moderated by Jack LaVoy.

Working with industry "gatekeepers" including specifiers and architects was the focus of a lively panel discussion, moderated by John Rajala.

Berndaine Joselyn, Director of Public Policy and Engagement at the Blandin Foundation summarizes some of the key learnings of the conference.

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