Today’s Market Leaders don’t just react to the challenges that face them, they are proactive in planning a successful course for the future. They go above and beyond to bring knowledge and acclaim not only to their own company, but to the industry as a whole.

In the December issue of Wood & Wood Products we profile eight Market Leaders who have used their knowledge and skills to positioned not only their companies, but the industry as a whole, for growth. In addition, their commitment, dedication, perseverance, and some would say sheer stubbornness, has brought recognition and respect not only to their firms — but in some ways, to the entire American wood products manufacturing industry.

With input from industry experts and the staff of Woodworking Network, our 2012 Woodworking Market Leaders are (in alphabetical order):

• Bill Barton, president and CEO of California Closets

• John Bassett, chairman of Vaughan-Bassett Furniture Co.

• Bob Gronlund, chairman and CEO, Wood-Mode Inc.

• Edmund “Bud” Klipa, general manager/Wood Division of Steelcase

• Matt Lundahl, COO of Meyer & Lundahl Manufacturing Co.

• Christine Marvin, director of marketing, Marvin Windows and Doors

• Eric Smith, president and CEO of Panel Processing Inc.

• Bob Timberlake, chairman of Bob Timberlake Inc.

We offer them all our congratulations and encourage you to read the profiles in order to learn more about these astute executives, their influences, achievements and insights — and their strategies for success.

Learn More Tips for Improving Your Company’s Competitiveness

Learn more success strategies from wood industry experts. Available on demand at WoodworkingNetwork.com, the free webcast “WOOD 100: Success Strategies” provides proven techniques for growing sales through a variety of methods, including social and traditional media, product development, lean manufacturing and technology investments.

This special broadcast, with presentations by Chip Yawney, president of A Cut Above LLC and Keith Malmstadt, president of Great Lake Woods, is sponsored by Exel North America Inc., Global Finishing Solutions, Elias Woodwork, TigerStop, Stiles Machinery Inc., DC Distributing and Drawer Connection Inc.

For more information or to hear this special presentation, go to WoodworkingNetwork.com/Webcasts. Also check out our selection of other webcast topics, with information to help you grow your company’s business.