Kristine Cox’s career in the wood industry is a story of adaptability and growth. In 1986, she and her husband, Jeff, co-founded a small drafting and renovation business that quickly evolved into millwork manufacturing. After earning her interior design degree, she took over the drafting business as well as other key roles.

In 2003, they purchased Rowland Woodworking, and Cox’s responsibilities expanded to include HR, business development, and eventually, purchasing.  Her current title is vice president of Administration at the North Carolina-based architectural millwork manufacturer.

Looking ahead, Cox said, the focus is on returning the company to its pre-COVID growth trajectory. “Our goals are to accomplish this through continuing to foster contractor relationships; find and develop talent; improve processes; and embrace technology to help us strengthen the company and increase revenue,” she said. “We have increased our use of software system(s), taken some baby steps into using AI, and educated ourselves more than ever on technologies available to us.” 

The company has come a long way since its early days. Involvement in the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) provided a turning point not only for the company, but for Cox, too. Upon joining AWI, she “was immediately embraced as a member of the woodworking community.” She served as AWI president in 2017 and is the current Carolinas chapter head.

“I have to say that the most valuable experiences that have helped me in my differing roles are through networking,” she noted. 

Developing the next generation of industry workers is also of valuable importance to Cox, and she is active in groups such as SkillsUSA, Woodwork Career Alliance, AWI Education Foundation, as well as local efforts. “Being privileged to serve this industry in a few different roles makes me proud that the industry creates opportunities for individuals like me who believe in service and giving back.” 

Other public service activities include: SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), Leadership High Point, Citizens Police Academy, ambassador to High Point University, and the Federated Insurance advisory committee. “My next adventure is to work with our local council of Scouting America to start the first Woodworking Explorer group in the Triad area.”

Outside of work, Cox also enjoys “spending time with family, searching out good food, boating, reading, [and] enjoying time with my (four-legged and furry) kiddos, Findlay and Freya.”

Quick Glimpse:

• Education:  AAS in Interior Design, Randolph Community College, 1992; AAS in Architectural Technology, Guilford County Community College, 1996; also studied Architectural Preservation
• Number of years at the company: 22
• Number of years in the industry: 33
• Words that best describe you: Giving, dedicated, true to myself.
• Business mantra: In business and life, always keep moving, always keep learning, always keep growing.
• Best advice: Be yourself and be true to yourself.
• Who have you tried to emulate: My father, Hal Murray. Seeing his work for the Boy Scouts of America taught me how to be a good employer and planner. His advice on dealing with difficult situations and to celebrate victories taught me to how to be a better businesswoman. And as a loving husband, father, son, brother, and partner, he taught me to be a better person.

About the Wood Industry Market Leaders: This marks the 17th year Woodworking Network has paid tribute to outstanding men and women who have made an impact, not only at their companies but within the various wood products industries. Since 2009, more than 100 industry professionals have shared their influencers, insights and strategies.  Read more about the 2025 Market Leaders and past honorees at WoodworkingNetwork.com/Market-Leaders.