Lori began her career in the timber industry in 2006 with Hancock Forest Management in Smethport, Pennsylvania, where she worked as an Administrative Assistant following the company’s acquisition of 130,000 acres of timberland. In this role, Lori was exposed to all facets of the industry and built lasting relationships while learning from professionals across the sector.

After ten years with Hancock, Lori transitioned to GreenWood Resources as Regional Project Administrator, relocating to Spartanburg, South Carolina in 2016. While working in the Southeast, Lori recognized a gap she had experienced throughout her career: women in the timber industry were highly capable and deeply committed, yet often lacked access to professional networks, peer support, education, and visible pathways for growth and leadership. When she discovered no existing organization bringing women together in this space, she set out to create one.

That vision became reality on May 22, 2019, when 33 women gathered for the first meeting of what would
become Carolina Women in Timber. The strong turnout confirmed both the need and demand for
connection, education, and shared experience among women working across the timber industry. With encouragement and support from industry leaders and mentors, the organization continued to grow.

Today, NAWT serves women nationwide through education, professional connection, and leadership
development, with the broader goal of supporting a strong, sustainable timber industry for years
to come. In 2025, the organization expanded nationally and officially became the National
Association of Women in Timber.