Sierra Pacific Industries names VP of lumber ops
Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has appointed Vaughn Emmerson as vice president of lumber operations, overseeing the company’s lumber business, which also includes millwork, veneer, biomass energy, fabrication and trucking. The company, based in Anderson, Calif., says it is the largest private landowner in the U.S and owns and manages over 2.4 million acres of timberland in California, Washington and Oregon.
“Vaughn understands what drives Sierra Pacific’s success and will provide strong leadership for our operations,” said Sierra Pacific Industries CEO Mark Emmerson. “Throughout his career, he has exemplified the values that define our company and our family—integrity, hard work, respect for our employees and a commitment to excellence. We’re confident his leadership will propel us forward while staying true to our core principles.”
“I’m humbled to step into the role of vice president of operations,” said Vaughn. “Sierra Pacific has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation and a commitment to our people. I look forward to working closely with our team to support our workforce, enhance operational efficiency, and drive continued growth while upholding the values that make our company successful.”
Vaughn brings over 12 years of experience in the wood products industry, including a decade at SPI. Since 2020, he has led SPI’s Engineering, Technology, and Fabrication division, overseeing three facilities that support operations ranging from equipment repairs to sawmill construction. His previous roles at SPI include sawmill manager, dry-end superintendent, fabrication shop manager and mechanical engineer. Before joining SPI, he worked at Boise Cascade. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from UC Merced and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Oregon State University. He serves on the Softwood Lumber Board.
In another leadership change, Todd Payne is stepping down as Sierra Pacific’s President of Lumber. In the interim, he will work alongside Vaughn to ensure a smooth transition.
“It has been an honor to lead Sierra Pacific’s wood products division,” said Todd Payne. “The Emmersons have built a business rooted in quality, service, sustainability and a deep respect for their team and communities. They are positioned for continued success.”
