Wood association names new president

Ed Elias has been elected to serve as president of APA -- The Engineered Wood Association, following the retirement of Dennis Hardman later this year. 

Elias is a 35-year APA veteran, having worked in APA’s technical, international marketing and financial divisions. He is currently the association’s VP and corporate secretary.

The APA is formerly known as the American Plywood Association 

Elias earned his bachelor’s degree in Forest Management and Wood Science from Stephen Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and a master’s degree in Wood Science from Colorado State University.

“The APA board undertook an extensive and diligent search process for this position. The search validated the fact that there is tremendous strength and talent on the APA staff, and we’re pleased to promote an internal candidate to follow Dennis as APA president,” said Mary Jo Nyblad, APA chairman and plywood sales and marketing manager for Boise Cascade. 

“With our recent membership gains, the voice of APA is stronger than ever, and that strong voice will create new challenges and opportunities for the association in the years ahead. We’re confident that Ed has the skills and experience to lead us into this new era,” she added. 

Hardman has been the APA president since November 2005. He will turn over the reins at the association’s annual meeting in Huntington Beach, Calif., Nov. 2-5.