Introducing WEI 2025

General Manager

Avekra Yerneni

Avekra Yerneni is a senior majoring in Sustainable Biomaterials. She is from Washington state and enjoys reading, writing and cooking in her free time. Avekra is currently the General Manager of the Wood Enterprise and Institute.

Production Manager

Bennett Hanke

Bennett is working towards a BS in Sustainable Biomaterials, focused on Sustainable Structures. He enjoys exploring on his bike and tinkering in his free time. Bennett is the Production Manager within the WEI team, overseeing each product's milling and finishing processes.

Laser Engraving Manager

Hailey Banks

Hailey Banks is a senior in Sustainable Biomaterials. She is from Florida, and enjoys spending time with her friends and family, and playing with her cats in her free time. Hailey is currently the Laser Engraving Manager of the Wood Enterprise and oversees all engraving of the plaques.

Finance Manager

Gary Chen

Gary is an exchange student from New Zealand, majoring in Forestry Science. At Virginia Tech, he serves as the finance manager for the WEI Team, where he oversees budgets and financial planning. He is excited to be a part of the WEI community!

Marketing and Sales Manager

Justin Brandt

Justin Brandt is a senior at Virginia Tech studying Sustainable Biomaterials. He has been a part of the WEI since Fall 2024 and currently acts as the Marketing and Sales Manager. Justin enjoys learning about woodworking, lumber science, and engaging in hands-on nature-based activities.

Marketing and Sales

Rebecca Simcic

Rebecca Simcic is working towards a Bachelor of Forestry, currently in her third year. She is an exchange student from New Zealand that enjoys spending time outdoors and adventuring.

Interested in Entrepreneurship?

In order to preserve the Wood Enterprise Institute, we need business minded students (like you!) to enroll in the upcoming fall semester. Look out for updates regarding course request for Fall 2025!