Lumberton's new sawmill: What we know about completion date, hiring, traffic

Summary

Lumberton's new sawmill, developed by Idaho Forest Group, is nearing completion with operations expected to begin by May or June. The facility is set to provide more than 130 jobs, with nearly 100 already filled, offering competitive wages significantly higher than the local average household income.

This sawmill represents a revitalization of the lumber industry in Lumberton, which has not seen such a facility in almost a century. The project includes collaboration with Pearl River Community College to create targeted training and apprenticeship programs, which will help meet the demand for skilled workers in the region.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This development highlights the importance of registered apprenticeship programs in building a skilled workforce tailored to local industry needs. By partnering with educational institutions, businesses can ensure that apprentices gain relevant skills while also providing pathways to well-paying jobs in their communities.