Meet Charlie Vaden: Chatham’s Steady Leader

Charlie Vaden has been with Columbia Forest Products for 32 years — long enough to see real change in the hardwood plywood industry. As well as within the Chatham, Virginia mill, he now manages.

“When I first started, I was thinking it was only for a year or so,” Charlie says. “But I loved the job as a spreader operator and the people I was working with.”

Charlie originally had his sights set on auto mechanics before taking a job at Columbia’s Chatham mill. Over time, what started as a short-term plan turned into a long-term career. He’s seen the company evolve — especially in how it treats its people, how it approaches safety and how automation has changed day-to-day work.

“The things I’ve seen change the most are respect for people, safety and automation,” he says. “Columbia has been extremely good to me and my family throughout the years, and I can’t thank this company enough for what they’ve done.”

Outside of work, Charlie is big on family — and on golf. 

“Outside of Columbia, it’s about family, with golf coming in second (just make sure my wife reads this!),” he laughs. “The game of golf pushes and challenges you like no other sport.” 

Charlie has played in the same large amateur tournament in Myrtle Beach for 18 straight years and has made the finals twice. Along the way, he’s carded a personal best of 67 and scored one hole-in-one and two double eagles.

As plant manager, Charlie takes pride in representing Columbia, both to customers and the team at Chatham.

 “The best thing about representing CFP to our customers is how CFP looks for the opportunity to grow and improve processes as the times change,” he says. “With employees, it’s showing them that you can grow and have a real impact on the communities, families and natural resources around us.”

He’s quick to encourage new employees to give Columbia a shot. 

“Watch how CFP will grow on you. It’s given so much in times of need to employees and families. You’re not just working a job — you’re working for your future.”

When asked how he supports those just starting, Charlie is straightforward: “There’s opportunity here for improvement in every job, and we look to them to help us make things better.”

Charlie is also proud of what sets the Chatham mill apart. 

“Our product mix is unique — 6 foot to 10 foot, 5/32” to 1 ¼”— with the most combinations of construction. But it’s really the people who make the difference. They’re truly giving in so many ways,” he says. “If you’ve been to one of our DMS walks, you’ll understand. No meeting starts without our Core Values and Mission Statement. If it’s important to the company, it should be important to all 2,200 of us.”

For Charlie, one of the most meaningful parts of his role has been the people who’ve supported and mentored him. 

“The support and learning I’ve had over the years have meant a lot. I’ve got an amazing staff here in Chatham, but I can’t forget people like Randy Marsh, Dave Abts, Greg Pray, Jeff Wakefield and John Hampton, who helped mold me into who I am today. A big thanks to the staff here and to everyone who’s helped me along the way.”