DENVER - The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) has announced Paul Downs of Paul Downs Cabinetmakers as the opening keynote speaker at its 20th anniversary conference set to occur March 1-2, 2018 in Denver, Colorado.

 

A CMA member and a popular speaker at woodworking industry events, Downs' business started from a wish to “just make furniture” in 1986 and has since grown from a single-man shop to 19 employees. He will speak about what factors have led to his success including how to market over the internet, how he hires, what he pays, and how much money he takes home. 

 

Downs has also worked for The New York Times writing a blog called “You’re The Boss” and his book, Boss Life: Surviving My Own Small Business, was published in 2015 by Blue Rider Press. He also has a blog on the Forbes website about the struggles of running a small manufacturing business.

 

The CMA’s first-ever national conference is themed “elevate” as the organization hopes that attendees’ businesses will soar to new heights with what they learn and from the connections they make during the conference.

 

CMA membership is not required to attend the event, but registration for non-members will include a one-year membership.