WWPA Names Jeff Keller President

WWPA has named industry veteran Jeff Keller as Association President. Keller brings in a leadership philosophy and a strong background in legislative and regulatory work within the industry. Keller succeeds Ray Barbee, who passed away in March 2025.

Keller has worked in the association field for over 20 years, representing various industries with a focus on lumber and construction. He began his career with the California Association of REALTORS®, later relocating to New York to represent independent building material dealers at the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA). While there, he earned his Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential. He then served as the Executive Director for the New York State Rural Housing Coalition, where he rebuilt its membership, reputation, and reach.

From there, Keller took on various contract positions as an Executive Director to help organizations transition, grow, and institute best practices for greater efficiency. In 2022, he relocated to the Pacific Northwest to return to his passion for the lumber industry with the Western Wood Preservers Institute.

Jeff received his B.A. from the University of Southern California and his M.S. from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

The appointment ends a months long search conducted by a committee of Member principals, chaired by WWPA Chairman Randy Schillinger. Schillinger noted that Keller’s unique expertise was a decisive factor in his appointment. “Jeff brings a good balance of respecting the legacy of WWPA with a clear vision for moving the organization forward.”

Source: Western Wood Products Association