The search is on. Woodworking Network is accepting nominations for its 11th annual Wood Industry 40 Under 40, an award program that honors young professionals making an impact in the North American woodworking industry.

The 40 Under 40 recognizes the achievements of standout individuals in the categories of: operational excellence (productivity, profitability, and organizational leadership); innovation (ingenuity, product development, and/or technical innovation); and industry or community impact (social good, peer inspiration, and mentorship). Persons in all job levels, in all sectors of the professional woodworking industry, are eligible.

“We look forward to assisting these rising stars in networking with their peers and former honorees to build a stronger industry in the future while enhancing their personal and professional growth,” said Will Sampson, editorial director at FDMC and Woodworking Network.

Past honorees have been involved in the cabinetry, residential and contract furniture, closets/home organization, architectural woodwork, retail fixtures, and wood components markets, as well as related segments, including research, education, and associations.

“Each year, we are thrilled to celebrate the best and brightest young contributors to the woodworking industry,” said Tim Fixmer, president and CEO of CCI Media, the parent of Woodworking Network. 

“As always, the many accomplishments of the nominees never cease to amaze us. Each represents a commitment to excellence unique to their organizations, and collectively, they brighten the future of the woodworking industry in North America. This year’s honorees will join the 400 alumni who have been recognized with this Woodworking Network distinction in past years,” he added.

Help identify and recognize these diverse and distinguished individuals. Nominate a team member or enter yourself at wdwrk.net/submit40u40 by May 11. Eligible candidates must be 40 or younger by Dec. 31, 2026, and be involved professionally in the North American woodworking industry.

Nominees will be judged by Woodworking Network’s editorial team. To ensure a competitive application, please provide specific examples of the nominee’s achievements and their measurable impact on their organization, the industry, or the community.

Honorees will be notified via email, and those selected will be recognized online, at the Leadership Reception, and in print in FDMC’s October “Leadership” issue.  (View the 2025 issue.)

For more information on Woodworking Network’s Wood Industry 40 Under 40, or to view past honorees, visit woodworkingnetwork.com/40under40 or email Karen Koenig at [email protected].

The Wood Industry 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 is sponsored by PaintLine and Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Co. (PLM).