In 2030, the global mass timber industry market size is expected to reach $3.56 billion. In Kentucky and beyond, understanding why mass timber matters and its impact—lower comparable weight, reduction emissions, faster construction speed and higher propensity to withstand hotter temperatures—is paramount. 

To meet this need, the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is proud to announce the Mass Timber in Appalachia Conference on Friday, March 14. The day-long event will bring together leading voices in architecture, engineering, forestry, construction and policy to examine how mass timber can advance sustainable building practices—sparking economic opportunities for local communities and supporting responsible forest management in the Appalachian region. 

“Mass timber can reduce the overall carbon footprint of a building project, support faster build times and create healthier indoor environments,” said Chad Niman, forest products research specialist in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. “Mass timber also allows us to offset the impacts of building by using more wood and managing our forests. This is especially important in western US forests to reduce catastrophic wildfire.  

In addition to stimulating job creation and economic development, mass timber aligns with current sustainability goals by sequestering carbon throughout a building’s lifespan. Research has also shown that mass timber can meet rigorous fire and structural codes, providing impressive resilience in real-world applications.  

Part of the day’s programming, participants will have the opportunity to tour  UK’s new Innovation District and Gray Design Building where they can view real-world examples of mass timber construction and learn how this emerging technology can be adapted to diverse architectural needs.  

Several speakers will be on hand to discuss the importance of mass timber. 

Internationally acclaimed architect Jeremy Smith, design director at Irving Smith Architects, will deliver the keynote address. Celebrated for his “soft architecture” approach, Smith has garnered numerous international honors, including UNESCO and UN-Habitat recognition, World Timber Building of the Year and multiple awards from the World Architecture Festival and Indo-Pacific INDE Awards. From rebuilding a cyclone-damaged forest home in Aotearoa New Zealand to teaching iterative design at the University of Auckland, Smith’s practice and research explore how buildings respond to environments constantly in flux—whether in urban centers or rural landscapes.  

Alongside Smith, attendees will hear from a diverse lineup of experts. Among those, Niman will share insights drawn from his experience leading hardwood mass timber initiatives. Daniel Hindman, associate professor of wood engineering at Virginia Tech’s Department of Sustainable Biomaterials, will discuss cross-laminated timber research—focusing on the use of non-traditional species, connection design and innovations in construction processes.  

Interactive breakout sessions will give attendees the opportunity to exchange ideas with leaders in forestry, architecture and engineering on practical strategies to expand mass timber usage. Topics of discussion will encompass the environmental benefits of wood-based construction—such as carbon sequestration, reduced weight and shorter building times—and the economic advantages of sourcing materials locally. 

“Because this material is often sourced from responsibly managed forests, mass timber construction helps promote local economies by encouraging demand for regional hardwoods and creating opportunities for rural communities in Appalachia,” Niman said. “This conference will be a great opportunity for everyone involved in the forest and construction sectors and we are glad to bring a great group of speakers and experts together.” 

The event runs 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. EST at the UK Gatton Student Center Grand Ballroom C. The cost $50 for in-person attendance and $20 for online webinars. Lunch will be provided. To see a complete agenda, including a full list of speakers, visit www.KYMassTimber.com.  

To register, visit https://www3.ca.uky.edu/worldpay/form/forestry-mass-timber/.  

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Writer: Jordan Strickler, jstrickler@uky.edu            

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services to individuals and institutions that provide equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.