The Council's mandate is to plan, develop and implement human resources strategies that support the long-term growth and competitiveness of Canada's advanced wood products manufacturing industry and meet the developmental needs of its workforce. The Council identifies and examines the necessary skills and knowledge required to respond to changing industry needs. The Council also develops an overall strategic plan to address key issues such as the shortage of skilled workers and the need for national standards for worker competencies. Sector profile The advanced wood manufacturing sector is a major contributor to Canada’s economy. It’s at the cutting edge of technology, using the latest practices and equipment to ensure efficient production that helps the sector—and the environment—thrive. Advanced engineering creates wood products from fast-growing species, and produces high-strength products from smaller trees. At the same time, the industry is able to use more of each log harvested, which means more products with less waste. The industry is made up of five sub-sectors: • Furniture • Cabinets • Window and doors • Millwork • Building components, including structural engineered products and factory-built housing A wide range of small and large businesses comprises the industry, including global brand-name companies with “household” recognition. You may have heard of some of these major players in the wood manufacturing industry: • Loewen (windows) • Masonite (wood doors) • Timber Systems (building systems) • Prestige Homes (modular housing) Nonetheless, small shops—typically employing fewer than four people—are the ‘heart’ of Canada’s advanced wood processing sector, accounting for 60% of all organizations.