Dry Kiln Operator's Short Course
Dry Kiln Operator’s Short Course at NC State
Gain drying expertise and hands-on experience at NC State this May
When: May 18, 2026 – 8:00 AM through May 21, 2026, 12:00 PM (Monday – Thursday)
Where: NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
This course provides practical instruction on how hardwood lumber is effectively kiln-dried. It is designed for kiln operators, supervisors, and yard personnel, whether they are new to the field or experienced.
The course is built around "learning by doing" through hands-on exercises.
- Full Drying Cycle: Participants will dry a load of wood during the week of the workshop to see the process from start to finish.
- Equipment Operation: Instruction includes hands-on lab exercises using our 1,000 board foot steam-heated dry kiln.
- Wood Behavior: You will learn the fundamentals of wood properties and how they react during the drying process.
- Drying Strategies: Methods for effectively drying hardwood lumber.
- Troubleshooting: Identifying and preventing common drying defects.
- Industry Standards: Instruction provided by university faculty and industry experts.
or contact Frederik Laleicke: pflaleic@ncsu.edu
N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. Individuals with disabilities are invited to request reasonable accommodations to participate in Extension sponsored programs and events. Please contact the county Extension office or campus department offering the program at least 14 days prior to the event to make arrangements.