Meet Our Members: Nicholas Sebellin
Tell me about yourself. What is your background, and how did you get involved with wholesale lumber?
My name is Nicholas Sebellin, and I grew up in Richmond, British Columbia, in a family with over 150 years of combined experience in the lumber industry. While I initially pursued a career in real estate after attending the University of British Columbia, I found that the nature of sales in that industry didn’t align with my long-term goals. However, I always enjoyed the sales aspect—meeting new people, building connections, and developing a brand. Watching my father work in the lumber business gave me firsthand insight into the strong, long-term relationships that define the industry. When an opportunity arose to join a family company, I took it, and it has been the best career decision I’ve made.
What motivates you to continue on this career path and be a part of the wholesale lumber industry?
I see an industry that is constantly evolving, with a diversifying landscape and an aging generation of knowledgeable professionals who have shaped the business. Learning from these individuals and applying that knowledge to the future of forestry and lumber is something I find incredibly important. Beyond that, I take pride in being part of an industry that I believe is crucial to the global economy and one that I hope my future children can be proud of. What keeps me excited about my work is the relationship-building aspect—being able to visit customers in person, understand their needs, and find ways to improve how we do business. That level of direct engagement is what makes my job so fulfilling.
In what ways have you seen the lumber industry evolve over the years?
The lumber industry, in many ways, operates like the stock market but with a blue-collar foundation. Consumer demand drives trends, and different species of wood gain popularity over time, just like shifts in other industries. As markets change, businesses must adapt to remain competitive. Seeing this evolution firsthand has reinforced my belief in staying ahead of trends, being adaptable, and continuously learning from experienced professionals in the field.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far? Are there any “wow” moments that particularly stand out to you?
The most rewarding part of my career has been the ability to provide solutions for customers, whether it’s sourcing the right product or identifying new opportunities. I enjoy bringing a creative mindset to my work and helping customers find exactly what they need. My biggest “wow” moment was realizing just how much room there is for innovation and problem-solving in this industry. The ability to see opportunities where others might not and create value in unexpected ways has been an exciting and fulfilling aspect of my job.
Tell me about your involvement with NAWLA. How long have you been a member, and what made you want to join?
As part of a company that has been a NAWLA member for almost 10 years, I’ve seen the benefits it provides in expanding our reach and showcasing our capabilities in the marketplace. Personally, I’ve had the opportunity to attend several incredible NAWLA events, including Wood Basics, Traders Market, and Regional Meetings. These experiences have been instrumental in growing my business, strengthening relationships, and deepening my understanding of the industry.
What advice would you give to a new NAWLA member?
I would encourage every new NAWLA member to attend as many events as possible. If you’re new to the industry, I highly recommend attending Wood Basics—it was a game-changer for me when I was starting out. Not only does it provide essential knowledge of industry terminology, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to network and build relationships that will last throughout your career.
What’s been your favorite NAWLA moment?
My favorite NAWLA moment was attending Wood Basics. As someone new to the industry, this course gave me the confidence to do my job effectively and reassured me that I was on the right career path. It was also an excellent networking opportunity—I met professionals from all over the United States and even connected with someone who works just 20 minutes away from me. It was a truly positive and memorable experience.
Anything else you would like to share?
The lumber industry is built on family, trust, and strong relationships, and I’ve been fortunate to work for a company that upholds these values. It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of a business that aligns with NAWLA’s mission, and I look forward to continuing to grow within this industry.