SPI Names Vaughn Emmerson To Oversee Lumber Business

Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) named Vaughn Emmerson as Vice President of Lumber Operations, overseeing the company’s lumber business, which also includes millwork, veneer, biomass energy, fabrication and trucking.

“Vaughn understands what drives Sierra Pacific’s success and will provide strong leadership for our operations,” CEO Mark Emmerson says. “Throughout his career, he has exemplified the values that define our company and our family—integrity, hard work, respect for our employees, and a commitment to excellence. We’re confident his leadership will propel us forward while staying true to our core principles.”

Todd Payne is stepping down as Sierra Pacific’s President of Lumber. In the interim, he will work alongside Vaughn to ensure a smooth transition.

“It has been an honor to lead Sierra Pacific’s wood products division,” Payne says. “The Emmersons have built a business rooted in quality, service, sustainability, and a deep respect for their team and communities. They are positioned for continued success.”

“I’m humbled to step into the role of Vice President of Operations,” Vaughn Emmerson says. “Sierra Pacific has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and a commitment to our people. I look forward to working closely with our team to support our workforce, enhance operational efficiency, and drive continued growth while upholding the values that make our company successful.”

Vaughn brings more than 12 years of experience in the wood products industry, including a decade at SPI. He has played a key role in sawmill construction and rebuild projects, workforce training programs, and manufacturing operations.

Since 2020, he has led SPI’s Engineering, Technology, and Fabrication division, overseeing three facilities that support operations ranging from equipment repairs to sawmill construction. His previous roles at SPI include sawmill manager, dry-end superintendent, fabrication shop manager, and mechanical engineer. Before joining SPI, he worked at Boise Cascade. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from UC Merced and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Oregon State University. He serves on the Softwood Lumber Board.

Payne served as president since late 2021, when SPI purchased Seneca, where Payne was president and CEO and for whom he worked for 31 years.

“Sierra Pacific has greatly benefited from Todd’s leadership,” Mark Emmerson adds. “His dedication to workforce safety and operational excellence has strengthened our company. We’re grateful for his contributions.”

The president’s position at SPI remains vacated for the time being.