Shaping the future of timber in the built environment

Welcome to the home of York Timbers Chair- a multidisciplinary initiative based at the University of Pretoria. Established through a strategic partnership with York Timbers, this dynamic hub fosters innovation and collaboration by connecting academia, industry and government.

The primary aim of the York Timbers Chair is to teach and equip future timber leaders, tell impactful stories through cutting-edge, locally relevant research, and serve as a central networking platform to test and resolve industry challenges- all with the goal of advancing a sustainable, connected, and future-focused timber sector in South Africa.

The core leadership team of the York Timbers Chair consists of the following individuals:

Why does this initiative really matter? 

A future-ready timber sector benefits everyone - from the ground up!

For Students:

• Access to an in-demand field with one of the fastest-growing materials in sustainable construction.
• Become highly employable with unique, hands-on skills and industry exposure.
• Join a network of innovators and industry leaders.
• Access to some of the most advanced timber research infrastructure in Africa.

For Industry Partners:

• Access to relevant, cutting-edge research and innovation to give you a competitive advantage.
• Build your talent pipeline with trained, job-ready graduates.
• Increase brand visibility.
• Grow the market for your solutions.
• Contribute to shaping the future of local timber construction.

For Government & Policymakers:

• Accelerate industry-relevant skills development and job creation.
• Access to local research to inform forward-thinking policy and procurement.
• Support sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure strategies.
• Development of fast, affordable and practical solutions to public infrastructure development.
• Join our community today:

Whether you are a student, industry professional, or policymaker - this is your personal invitation to connect, collaborate and be ready for opportunities when they arrive.

Get in Touch:

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9329043/
- Email: [email protected]
- Enquiries: +27 82 8858985

Timber Construction Conference: 8 & 9 September 2025

You are invited to make a voluntary donation of R950 per person in support of the University of Pretoria’s educational and research initiatives in sustainable timber construction. Your contribution will assist in promoting knowledge-sharing, student development, and research excellence through events like the Timber Construction Conference.

Donate now to make your mark on a sustainable future.