About Us

The Wisconsin Lumber Dealers Education Foundation Inc (WLDEF) was formed in 2009 by the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Retail Lumber Association Inc. (WRLA).  The foundation was established to give back to the industry that made the WRLA a successful association throughout its 120 year history.

What does WLDEF do? - The WLDEF is a non-profit corporation which will  promote the retail lumber industry.  The foundation will support attendance at education seminars and conferences and  will disseminate educational and promotional information about the lumber and building materials industry.  The WLDEF will provide scholarships and other forms of financial assistance to persons affiliated with the current  Wisconsin and Michigan Upper Peninsula based members the Northwestern Lumber Association (NLA).

Who can participate? - The WLDEF was established  for the Wisconsin and Michigan Upper Peninsula based members the BLD Connection (formerly Northwestern Lumber Association).  Each program has it’s own criteria.   Check the individual programs for detail

A "member" of the foundation shall be any retailer or supplier of lumber or building materials that resides in Wisconsin and Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is a member in good standing with BLD Connection (formerly Northwestern Lumber Association).  

Chairperson - Alex Goodman, Wisconsin Building Supply

Vice-Chairperson - Alex Goodman, Wisconsin Building Supply-Onalaska

Treasurer - Nate Ehlen, Sav-Rite Building Center

Secretary -  Chris Hegeman, Bliffert Lumber & Hardware

Directors

Chris Hembrook, Dunn Lumber

Ben Braun, Braun Building Center

Carol Quandt, 41 Lumber

Nick Balduzzi, Balduzzi's

Associate Director - Joe Hughes, GAF

Associate Director - Peder Anderson, Northern Crossarm Co 

Staff - Connie Johnson