State Names New Program Manager For Hardwood Development

The position is aimed at promoting economic opportunities in the hardwoods industry. Seidel most recently served as chief operating officer for Frank Miller Lumber Company, Inc. in Union City.

Source: Inside INdiana Business

Press Release

Lt. Governor Becky Skillman recently named Mike Seidl program manager for hardwoods development, a position designed to promote economic opportunities in the hardwoods industry. Seidl brings nearly 35 years of experience in the hardwoods industry and most recently served as Chief Operating Officer for Frank Miller Lumber Company, Inc.

“We are fortunate to have a senior executive from the industry lead the state’s hardwoods initiative,” said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. “Mike brings tremendous experience in economic development from his career in the hardwoods industry, which is an important part of Indiana’s agricultural economy. I believe Mike has the passion and enthusiasm to lead this growing sector.”

Indiana ranks first nationally in manufacturing wood office furniture and forest-based businesses. Hardwood is the fourth largest manufacturing sector by employment in the state. In addition to promoting and developing opportunities in Indiana’s hardwoods manufacturing industry, Seidl will work to secure federal funding to support the growth of the state’s hardwoods industry. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) jointly fund this position, located at ISDA.

“We are pleased to partner with DNR to create an economic development position dedicated to the hardwoods industry, and we are excited to have someone with Mike’s expertise taking the lead on our hardwoods strategy,” said Agriculture Director Andy Miller.

“In the past year, we have seen the growing need to maintain the vitality and competitiveness of Indiana’s primary and secondary hardwoods manufacturing sector,” said Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Kyle Hupfer. “We look forward to working closely with Mike and ISDA to promote and create new economic development opportunities that will revitalize Indiana’s hardwoods industry.”

Seidl worked as a senior executive for Frank Miller Lumber for 15 years and serves as past president and honorary director of the Indiana Hardwoods Lumbermen’s Association. He is a graduate of Vincennes University. Seidl, his wife and two children live in Jasper, Indiana.

Source: Office of Lt. Governor Becky Skillman