Inspired by her father’s successful sales career in the paint industry, Hannah Swanson entered the lumber industry with a goal of following in his footsteps and building her own successful business portfolio. After three years in Hampton Lumber's cedar department, she transitioned into the sales trainee program and hasn’t looked back. In this member spotlight learn how NAWLA has shaped her journey, explore her background—including her amateur golf career— and her perspective on how the industry has evolved since she started in 2021.

Tell me about yourself. What is your background and how did you get involved with wholesale lumber?

I am a born and raised Oregonian. I attended both Oregon State and Portland State where I played women’s golf. In 2019, I graduated with a business degree in marketing. I hoped to someday get into sales, after watching my dad build and maintain his own book of business in the paint industry; however, I decided to one-up him and instead start a career in the lumber industry. My Hampton journey began in 2021 when I took a position within our cedar department.  Eight months ago, I made my way into our sales trainee program, and I haven’t looked back.      

What motivates you to continue on this career path and be a part of the wholesale lumber industry?

One motivating factor stems from the ample amount of opportunity I feel this industry has to offer. Like many, before my time at Hampton, I was unaware of all the professions the wholesale lumber world provides. I love that I am constantly learning, growing, and being challenged. I get to work with and acquire knowledge from senior traders who have seen and done it all. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have landed at a company like Hampton. The Hampton team is always looking to the future, eager to find a better way.

In what ways have you seen the lumber industry evolve over the years?

Even though I only began in 2021, a lot has changed within the industry and the lumber market. Thanks to a pandemic, economic shifts, environmental factors, etc., we’ve seen immense fluctuation in supply and demand, and therefore the price of lumber. I feel the most recent “epidemic” – sawmill closures – will play a pivotal role in the lumber market going forward.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far? Are there any “wow” moments that particularly stand out to you?

Again, my knowledge of the wholesale lumber industry was basically non-existent before Hampton. Truth be told, my background up to that point was mainly a college education and my amateur golf career. I am proud of how far I’ve come and the path I am currently paving. On a different note, I am always amazed by the lumber community and the people who make it up. At the end of the day, it’s salt of the earth individuals who have found a way to both conduct business and create lasting, genuine relationships.  

Tell me about your involvement with NAWLA. How long have you been a member and what made you want to join?

Hampton has been a long-time member of NAWLA so it was a no-brainer for me to get involved. My first NAWLA event was Wood Basics back in May. Many of my colleagues have attended the week-long function and always spoke highly of the experience. Needless to say, I was very excited when it was finally my turn to partake. Then, a month later, I was able to attend my first Portland Regional Meeting. I loved the ability to network and establish connections at both of these NAWLA events.

What advice would you give to a new NAWLA member?

Well, I should take my own advice here and get involved as much as possible. I have been meaning to join a 10 group, so I can broaden my scope and learn from other professionals in the industry. As a newbie, I know my best bet is to learn and take guidance from those who have come before me. 

What’s been your favorite NAWLA moment?

My favorite NAWLA memory has easily been Wood Basics. It was a week full of great seminars, lumber/forestry content, and overall industry knowledge. Ultimately, it was the bonds made outside the classroom at trivia night, the pool table, and singing karaoke that really solidified the trip.  

Anything else you would like to share?

In the grand scheme of things, my wholesale lumber journey has just begun. I know this industry/market can be tough and even brutal at times yet there is a reason not many leave once they find themselves in it. We can’t control everything, but with the help of organizations like NAWLA, together, the wholesale lumber community can overcome any obstacle.