Seeking 40 wood industry standouts under 40

Woodworking Network is seeking nominations for its 10th annual Wood Industry 40 Under 40, celebrating the next generation of industry professionals who are making an impact on wood products manufacturing in North America. Nominations run through May 12.

The 40 Under 40 award program recognizes the achievements of standout individuals in the categories of: productivity, profitability, social good (locally or globally), ingenuity, innovation, peer inspiration, product development, organizational leadership, or other areas. Persons in all job levels, in all facets of the professional woodworking industry, are eligible.

“Each year, we are thrilled to celebrate the best and brightest young contributors to the woodworking industry. 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 more than 360 alumni who have been recognized with this Woodworking Network distinction in past years,” said Tim Fixmer, president and CEO of CCI Media, the parent of Woodworking Network.

“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.”

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.

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"The 40 under 40 of 2025 is among some of the best, they are the epitome of what it takes to succeed in the woodworking industry. We are asking them to bring their drive, ideas, and work ethic to showcase to the world what it takes to take this industry to the next level. We are very proud of this group and pay attention to them as we believe the best is yet to come,” said Ryan Wagner, publisher of FDMC.

Candidates will be judged by Woodworking Network’s team of editors; please include details/examples when providing the reason for the nomination and the impact. Honorees will be notified via email, and those selected will be recognized online, at the Leadership Reception held the day before the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas, at Woodworking Network events, and in print in FDMC’s October Leadership issue. (View the 2024 issue.)

Help identify and recognize these diverse and distinguished individuals. Nominate a team member or enter yourself at bit.ly/submitunder40 by May 12. To qualify, candidates must be 40 or younger by Dec. 31, 2025, and be involved professionally in the North American woodworking industry.

For more information on the 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 2025 is sponsored by PaintLine and Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Co. (PLM).
 

 
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About the author
Karen Koenig | Editor

Karen M. Koenig has more than 30 years of experience in the woodworking industry, including visits to wood products manufacturing facilities throughout North America, Europe and Asia. As editor of special publications under the Woodworking Network brand, including the Red Book Best Practices resource guide and website, Karen’s responsibilities include writing, editing and coordinating of editorial content. She is also a contributor to FDMC and other Woodworking Network online and print media owned by CCI Media. She can be reached at [email protected]