Sepideh’s experience with thermal modification began a decade ago during her master’s studies, contributing to early North American research on the thermal modification of Western Hemlock.
Connecting product innovation with real customer needs.
Sepideh brings a unique combination of scientific training and practical product development experience to the thermally modified Hem-Fir initiative. She has been with Western for seven years. Her academic background includes a Master’s degree in Physics from Iran and a Master’s degree in Wood Science from the University of British Columbia; expertise she now applies directly to product innovation, testing, and technical development.
Her interest in the species was driven by its strong presence in British Columbia’s forests and its lower market value compared to premium species. For Sepideh, that created an important opportunity to explore how an abundant and underutilized resource could be upgraded through an environmentally responsible process into higher-value applications.
Today, Sepideh is focused on the technical development of thermally modified knotty Hem-Fir, an area that has not previously been commercialized. Her role includes early-stage research, process development, and close coordination with third-party laboratories to validate performance through testing. The work requires both innovation and rigour, ensuring the material can deliver consistent, credible, real-world results.
‘What makes this project especially meaningful to me is that it feels like something I helped initiate years ago is now coming to life. It’s like planting a seed and finally seeing it grow into something tangible.’
Sepideh sees thermally modified Hem-Fir as a meaningful step forward for the forest industry. By creating high-performance products, the project supports better resource efficiency, extends the value chain, and contributes to more sustainable forestry practices over the long term.
She believes thermally modified Hem-Fir, particularly in knotty grades, can open new markets, reduce pressure on premium species, and strengthen the competitive position of Canadian wood products in applications where durability, dimensional stability, and natural appearance matter.
