Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST) – A

Bridge Linking Academia, Community, Industry and

Government

OUR VISION: To be the world leader in advancing the profession of wood science. OUR MISSION: To provide service to SWST members; to develop, maintain, and promulgate the educational, scientific, and ethical standards that define the profession; and to advocate the socially responsible production and use of wood andlignocellulosic materials.

1958 = Incorporated as the “American Institute of Wood Engineering”

1960 = Name changed to “Society of Wood Science and Technology”. 1st Newsletter

1968 = 1st Issue of Wood & Fiber Science Journal

1976 = Critical Matters Committee Formed

1984 = Accreditation of undergraduate Wood Science and Technology Programs began

History:

1986 = First George Marra Award for Excellence in Writing presented

1995 = Student Poster Competition initiated – 27 students received awards to date

1996 = SWST Website

2001 = Teaching Units Introduced

2007 = Electronic publishing of Wood and Fiber Science Journal available at Metapress.com

History (cont):

2008 = Held first International Convention in Chile

2010 = International Convention held at United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland

2012 = International Convention held in Beijing, China at International Center for Bamboo and Rattan

History (cont):

2014 International Convention to be held June 23-27 in Zvolen, Slovakia

Executive Director presence at international meetings

2013- Currently Underway:

SWST Benefits/Services:Wood and Fiber Science Journal

Official publication, quarterly

Original papers of professional concern, or based on research dealing with the science, processing, and manufacture of wood and lignocellulosic materials

Electronic Version now available

SWST Benefits/Services:Accreditation

Professional accreditation of wood science and technology baccalaureate educational programs has been a very important function of the Society since 1984.

Through accreditation, the Society seeks to improve the quality of professional wood science and technology education at the baccalaureate level and ensure that successful graduates entering the profession are highly qualified.

Programs Reviewed: Initial Accreditation

Current Accreditation

Expires

Mississippi State University 1987 2017

North Carolina State University 1984 2015

Oregon State University 1990 2023

Pennsylvania State University 1992 2013

State University of New York (SUNY) 2003 2013

University of Idaho 1996 2015

University of Maine 1993 2023

University of Minnesota 1985 2017

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 1985 2015

West Virginia University

Universidad del Bío-Bío

1989

2008

2019

2019

SWST Accredited Programs (11)

Teaching Units 1 & 2

Classroom use in high school science classes

Introduce forest products and wood science

Topics include: structure of wood, identification equipment and technique,

properties of wood, and activities

SWST Benefits/Services:Educational Materials

SWST Benefits/Services:Visiting Scientist Program

International and national travel grants Enhance the professional growth of our

members Broaden their research perspective and

develop collaborative linkages Promote SWST in the international arena

SWST Benefits/Services:Awards

Distinguished Service Award

Fellows Award

George Marra Award for Excellence in Writing

Student Poster Competition Award

SWST Benefits/Services:New Brochure

SWST Benefits/Services:International Developing

Country Membership

OnlineAccessOnly

SWST Purposes:

• Develop, maintain, and communicate the unique body of knowledge distinctive to wood science, lignocellulosic materials, and their technologies

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SWST Purposes:• Promote policies and procedures

which assure the wise use of wood and lignocellulosic materials

SWST Purposes:• Assure high standards for

professional performance of wood scientists & technologists

SWST Purposes:• Foster quality educational

programs at all levels of Wood Science, lignocellulosic materials, and their technologies

SWST Purposes:• Represent the profession in

public policy development

Manufacturer10%

Consulting11%

Education39%

Government8%

Association4%

Supplier1%

Student15%

Retired12%

SWST Membership (n=471):

Next International Convention

2014 InternationalConventionJune 23-27Zvolen,Slovakia

http://www.swst.org/meetings/AM14/

Upcoming International Conventions

2015 International Convention – Proposals welcome (North America)

2016 International Convention – Proposals welcome (South America)