Welcome to the NELMA Grader Academy, a comprehensive on-line training resource for individuals that seek to learn more about the intricacies of lumber grading or for those within the lumber industry that want to increase their proficiency level.  The Academy enlists the following tools to enhance the lumber grading education experience:

Grader Training:  On-line instruction courseware that parallels the two most important softwood lumber species and species grouping in the Northeastern and Great Lakes regions, namely Eastern White Pine and the Spruce-Pine-Fir grouping.  Your user profile will track your progress along the way.

PLEASE NOTE THAT SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THESE GRADING COURSES DO NOT QUALIFY AN INDIVIDUAL AS A CERTIFIED SOFTWOOD LUMBER GRADER.  OFFICIAL GRADER CERTIFICATION MUST BE COMPLETED AT THE LUMBER MANUFACTURER WHERE THEY ARE EMPLOYED. 

Grader Games: 

Above Board:  An interactive game that simulates real-time lumber grading at a mill setting and includes variable lug speeds from beginner level to more advanced settings.   Your profile will track your high scores and achievement levels earned after multiple game plays.  A fun way to apply your knowledge!

Build-A-Board: Use all of your Eastern White Pine knowledge to create a Premium or Standard grade board from a clear 1″x8″x8′ image using the maximum number of allowable defects provided in an image gallery. How many correct boards can you create in a minute and a half?

To gain full access to the Grader Training and Above Board, please register via the Login tab to set up your username and password, or log in if you already have an account.

Are you ready to make the grade?