Hardwood Floors Magazine’s 2019 40 Under 40

Hardwood Floors is honored to recognize 40 industry professionals under the age of 40 who are helping to determine the future of the wood flooring industry. These individuals are today’s movers and shakers who are already setting the pace for tomorrow.We are excited to shine the spotlight on these outstanding men and women whose career accomplishments have moved them to the forefront. Their professional track records have helped to establish them as some of today’s brightest stars – before their 40th birthday. Read on to meet them.

Todd Anstett
Vice President
Powernail Co.
LAKE ZURICH, ILLINOIS

Todd Anstett has been with Powernail Company Inc. for more than 10 years, since graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder with a degree in Economics.

Todd has applied for and been granted several patents for innovations in the wood flooring industry, including the adjustable fastener-driving tool support system and plural tapered fastener with a material receiving inward region.

Todd regularly works with the technical departments of most major wood manufacturers to solve installation problems and develop new products for the industry’s changing needs.

When he’s not taking on problems of the flooring industry, he’s helping his local community, including organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

Flavia Baggio
General Manager
Operations Indusparquet
MIAMI, FLORIDA

In 2009, Indusparquet, a family-owned and operated exotic hardwood producer based in Brazil, needed someone to establish its U.S. business. Still in her 20s, Flavia Baggio moved to Miami from her native Brazil. Under her direction, the company grew. She gained the trust and loyalty of both employees and distributors who respected and admired her for her strong leadership.

Flavia has served on NWFA committees and the board of the North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD). She is a frequent speaker and tireless advocate for environmental responsibility and sustainability. Flavia is also a shining example to young career women, often speaking to them about the importance of following their dreams, being persistent, and addressing challenges while staying true to their beliefs, principles, and values.

Today, Flavia still runs Indusparquet-USA with the same determination and focus, despite becoming a first-time mother within the past year.

Amanda Bartik
Marketing Manager
Loba-Wakol LLC
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Amanda joined Loba-Wakol in 2015 as a customer service specialist who has worked tirelessly to build and expand the company’s customer service department. She has enthusiastically taken on many new responsibilities, including building the company’s online presence and U.S. marketing department, effectively connecting the company and its products to end-users – contractors.

From handling the brands’ social media accounts to scheduling and coordinating all distributor and contractor training sessions, and attending trade shows, Amanda approaches her work with fierce determination, enthusiasm, and creativity. Always going the extra mile to make sure clients get the care and support they need, Amanda is committed to building strong industry relationships.

Amanda also volunteers at soup kitchens, donates her time for charity build projects, and mentors others to help them achieve their goals.

Anna-Marie Boyer
Freight Coordinator/Salesperson in Training
Elite Floor Designs LLC
VALDOSTA, GEORGIA

Anna-Marie graduated from Kennesaw State University’s Michael J. Coles College of Business in 2018 with a 3.6 GPA. Her goal was to work with her stepfather in his business, Elite Floor Designs. After graduation, she excelled as a freight coordinator. In this role, she learned how to speak with customers and sell products, and is currently pursuing new customers as a salesperson-in-training.

Her next challenge is setting up and managing a booth at a wood flooring convention to show Elite Floor Design’s Heart Pine Floor. Her long-term goal is to take over the business when her step-father retires.

On Memorial Day, Anna-Marie places American flags on graves of veterans. She has participated in local pageants and ridden in parades to support her town. Anna-Marie is a volunteer for her church’s Vacation Bible School. She has also supported runners in the local Hospice Half Marathon, cheering on participants.

Mike Boyer
Director of Operations
Apex Wood Floors Inc.
LOMBARD, ILLINOIS

Mike Boyer has been with Apex Wood Floors for 20 years. He started as an installation helper and grew to become a capable second man on the crew. He was eventually promoted to become a reliable crew leader, then head installation team leader. Six years later, he was promoted again to the scheduling and operations portion of the business. His superior attitude and willingness to learn led to another promotion to director of operations in summer 2019. Mike is a tremendous asset to Apex Wood Floors, a strong leader, an effective collaborator, and is always willing to lend a hand to help others.

Dony Buendia
Owner
DB Genesis Hardwood Flooring
KENSINGTON, MARYLAND

Dony started his career in wood flooring as an assistant. As time went by, he fell in love with the work and put all his effort into improving his craft. He and his wife founded DB Genesis Hardwood Flooring in 2012. A second generation wood flooring professional, Dony enjoys his work, and loves educating others. The company consistently receives positive reviews from satisfied customers, which reassures Dony that they’re doing quality work.

He strives to learn more in this constantly changing industry, to maintain a high standard of quality, and to preserve the environment. Dony continues to learn about new techniques, products, and ideas to achieve the best results for his customers.

Dony is proud to be part of the wood flooring family and would like to leave his business as a legacy for children, to influence future generations to treasure and love wood as he does.

Jess Card
Chief Operating Officer
Rubio Monocoat USA
SPICEWOOD, TEXAS

Jess graduated from California Lutheran University in 2002 with majors in both business and political science. Following the 2008 stock market crash, jobs were scarce, so he worked part-time packing boxes at Rubio Monocoat. Ten years later, he is chief operating officer.

Jess has helped craft a company culture of creativity and innovation, fueling a 700 percent increase in staff. He has implemented systems to more efficiently manage stock and streamline the supply chain process. Jess oversaw the relocation of the corporate headquarters and facilitated the development of an on-site training center. His commitment to social responsibility led the company to establish a relationship with TreeFolks, send aid to Africa, and support #faithforfaith.

While raising his three children, Jess coaches local sports teams, plants trees, and volunteers with the local school associations. He has gone on numerous mission trips, contributes to Compassion International, and helps younger co-workers achieve life goals.

Jason Carter
President/CEO
Carter Quality Hardwood Flooring
OXFORD, MICHIGAN

In 2005, after graduating from Baker College with a marketing degree, Jason started his own business, weathering the Great Recession of 2008, and moving his company forward. He earned his Residential Builders License through the State of Michigan and is an NWFA Certified Installer, and Sand and Finish Professional. He is also a Bona Certified Craftsman, Arboritec UV Specialist, and has received additional training from other suppliers, including Rubio Monocoat.

For several years, Jason’s team has rowed in the annual Dragon on the Lake races, raising thousands of dollars for the Marilyn Jane Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing financial assistance and resources to those dealing with Parkinson’s disease. In 2018, Jason’s team competed in the Camel Races, raising money for the Lapeer Family Literacy Center, a nonprofit organization providing tutoring for adults in Michigan’s thumb area. The company also gives to the Wounded Warrior Project and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Richard Coning
Owner
Advanced Hardwood Sand & Finish
HAMILTON, OHIO

Richard started working in the hardwood flooring industry at age 16, and knew then he didn’t want to do anything else. He soon started sanding for a well-known company in the Cincinnati area. By the age of 23, Richard became an NWFA Certified Sand & Finisher. He has taken NWFA university courses in colorants, sanding process, finishing process, and sand and finish safety, and is Bona certified.

At 25, Richard now owns his own business in the Cincinnati area and continues to grow and learn in his business and technical skills, trying new techniques and testing new products.

In his downtime (which is rare when you run your own business and have two young children), Richard helps out where he can – even if it’s something as simple as helping an elderly woman change her tire, and it makes him late for his next appointment.

Michael Crompton
General Manager
BC Hardwood Floor Company Ltd.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Michael started working in hardwood flooring in high school with both his father and grandfather, eventually serving as sales manager, and later general manager. He grew the company by penetrating new sectors and forging partnerships with overseas manufacturers and local construction companies, which led to many high- visibility projects.

An agent of change, Michael overhauled the company’s website to provide educational content, making it a resource for homeowners, designers, and builders. He launched a photography system to showcase the company’s work and introduced a new company-wide computer operating system.

Michael frequently talks to high school students about careers in the trades and hosts educational sessions for college students in interior design. He has spoken on a panel for union apprentices at a leadership conference in Las Vegas. Under Michael’s leadership, BC Hardwood Floor Company also donates its products and services to the local community center, carpentry schools, and industry design shows.

Seamus Curran
Project Manager
J.J. Curran and Son Inc.
ALBANY, NEW YORK

Seamus is the fourth generation in his family to embrace hardwood flooring. While very young, he accompanied his parents to job sites and immediately gravitated to the maple floorboards and nailing hammers. For years, Seamus trained alongside union floor layers where he developed an appreciation for quality installation and craftsmanship.

After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2012 with a bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, he returned to the family business and currently serves as estimator and project manager. Some noteworthy jobs include the Museum of Modern Art Expansion in Manhattan, Dartmouth College’s Hood Museum, Yale University’s Murray Residential College, and Queens College: Fitzgerald Gym Replacement.

Seamus enjoys researching the evolution of wood floor manufacturing, and means and methods of installations and finishes; he also repairs vintage equipment. Having grown up in the industry, he has become somewhat of a wood floor historian and often shares his extensive knowledge with colleagues.

Jose Dominguez
Owner
Unique Hardwood Floors
DES MOINES, IOWA

Jose began as a tile helper at 15 and was installing by 16. But Jose’s father saw potential in Jose’s ability to learn quickly and talk to customers. After a few years working together in hardwood flooring, Jose’s father established him as a subcontractor.

Jose faced several obstacles due to his youth and lack of experience, but as people saw his work, his reputation grew. Today, most business for Jose and his young crew comes from referrals. And while he wins his fair share of jobs, Jose believes competitors should help each other, so he often offers advice to his competitors and their customers.

Although he didn’t plan to pursue a career in hardwood flooring, Jose now has 18 years’ experience and feels wood “runs in his veins.” According to Jose, it also relieves stress and smells delicious.

Karolina Felich
COO
Allstate Flooring
NEW YORK, NEW YORK

Karolina began her career in the flooring industry nine years ago as a receptionist, and worked her way to the Chief Operating Officer/Managing Partner position for Allstate Flooring. She wears many hats, from managing two boutique wood flooring showrooms, to estimates, managing floor installations at construction sites, and closing sales with architects, designers, and real estate developers.

An MBA graduate, Karolina is actively involved in the local design, architectural, and construction communities, and seeks female equality in the construction field. Karolina was recently awarded the Ambassador of Women in Construction for driving Diversity and Inclusion across the U.S. Construction Industry by the National Association of Women in Construction.

Karolina supports community centers in Staten Island to provide support, leadership, contributions, and services to local youth programs, community events, and the less fortunate. She shares her technical knowledge of the wood flooring industry by hosting events for industry professionals to obtain their CEU credits.

Travis Fritzel
Owner/Operator
Perennial Hardwood
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO

It may have begun as a college student trying to make some money on the side, but now at just 22 years old, Travis has grown his business so much that he employs five people. He constantly works on perfecting his trade by taking classes, and learning from his representatives and suppliers. He even inspired and trained his father and older brother to join the trade in their respective markets.

Travis has built his business on expertise, honesty, and hard work. His customers praise Perennial Hardwood for being professional, courteous, and on-schedule with a sincere desire to deliver high-quality work at a fair price.

Travis is not afraid to ask for advice and shares his knowledge with others, frequently posting tips on social media and sharing educational material with others. He’s also becoming well known in the area for giving advice on web design and special programs for this competitive industry.

Daniel Garcia-Glasscock
Architect & Design Consultant
Woodwright Hardwood Floor Company
DALLAS, TEXAS

A native Texan, Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree in interior merchandising/design with a minor in music performance. He is currently completing his master’s in business. Due to his growing expertise in wood flooring, stairs, design and construction, he educates commercial architects and design teams about how to properly specify a wood floor in their projects.

His work-related travels take him to more than 20 major U.S. markets a year, including Chicago, Minneapolis, Seattle, Atlanta, and Miami where he promotes Woodwright’s custom products while assisting the architecture and design community in writing specifications that are in their clients’ best interests.

Daniel is an avid supporter and former participant in Drum Corps International. He regularly volunteers with youth at his Dallas church. He also works with Habitat for Humanity and The Trevor Project. A competitive gamer in survival and fighting games, Daniel competes nationally and internationally with sponsored challengers.

Fraser Greenberg
Partners
Relative Space
TORONTO, ONTARIO

Tyler Greenberg
Partners
Relative Space
TORONTO, ONTARIO

Tyler and Fraser Greenberg’s grandparents started the business in the 1970s. The brothers took over the business in 2001, renamed the company Relative Space, and focused on sustainable engineered wood flooring. They have grown the company by expanding their distribution network across the U.S.A. and Canada, and opening new showrooms in Toronto’s King East Design District and New York’s SoHo neighborhood. Their diverse client roster spans North America, Europe, and Asia. The brothers also design and develop their own wood flooring collections.

Because of their strong commitment to social responsibility, Relative Space only sells products free of VOCs and from third-party-certified plantation forests, never wild growth. Their European-made products don’t come at the cost of workers’ wellbeing due to strong human rights codes and labor laws in the products’ countries of origin. They have also managed a piece of land for reforestation and recently opened a zero-waste coffee shop in Toronto.

Dustan Hughes
Owner
Dustan’s Hardwood Flooring
HEBRON, KENTUCKY

Dustan has worked in hardwood flooring for 18 years. Three years ago, he started his own company, appropriately named Dustan’s Hardwood Flooring. Because of the high quality of his work, including a phenomenal eye for detail, numerous customers have referred him to others through their neighborhood newsletters and homeowners’ association websites. The company also sponsors a magazine that is distributed to all Hebron, Kentucky residents called Hebron Living, which provides exposure for his business and also supports his local community.

Dustan is very active in his community, which is expressed through his commitment to local athletics. His company sponsors a peewee football team and donates meals for the players. This year, he plans to provide meals to the Cooper High School freshman, junior varsity, and varsity teams and coaches. Of course, the kids love Subway night, but the parents and coaches also appreciate it because football players can really eat!

Scott Jenkins
Owner
Jenkins Hardwood Flooring
OTTAWA, ONTARIO

Scott’s career began at 21 with a small company that prided itself on expertise, excellence, and a strong work ethic. But working with his hands and taking pride in his work was not new to him; he had learned these from his grandfather and mentor. Later, working for larger companies, the lack of standards frustrated Scott. So, after working in sales to sharpen his offsite skills, Scott began saving for his dream: his own business.

His company was founded in 2013 to provide clients with quality installations and sanding. From the first phone call to the final invoice, Scott takes personal responsibility for client service. He continues to learn new techniques, fueling his passion for quality. Scott is working towards becoming one of Ottawa’s few NWFA-certified installers, and sand and finishers.

The company contributes to organizations including LiveWorkPlay, Barristers for a Better Bytown, Freedom Dog Rescue, and local recreational teams.

Jesse Linton
Owner
JL Hardwood Flooring Restorations
LEBANON, INDIANA

A talented craftsman, Jesse has been working in hardwood flooring for more than 20 years. Jesse is highly sought after throughout the state of Indiana due to his precise and creative work, restoration abilities, and superior designs. Jesse is always willing to go above and beyond to make sure the customer is happy, and that every job is perfect. Jess is especially adept at borders, inlays and medallions, and of course, restoring old floors.

Jesse gives back to his community by donating time and funds to local organizations. He’s a generous supporter of The Salvation Army of Boone County Red Kettle Campaign, Western Boone County Tidal Wave, Boone County Cancer Society, Talent Factory and Dance, and many other organizations.. He also helps those that need flooring, but cannot afford high prices, and has donated his time and supplies to refinish floors for a family in need.

Nicholas Maxson
Co-Owner
Williamsport Wood Floors
WILLIAMSPORT, PENNSYLVANIA

Nicholas started his career as an apprentice carpenter, remodeling houses in Pittsburgh. Underneath almost every dirty carpet in these old homes, they found painted heart pine. His favorite part of remodeling was always seeing the dramatic difference in how the floors looked after being sanded and refinished. His partner, Dylan Siddle had sanded floors since he was seven years old, so it made sense to strike out on their own and start Williamsport Wood Floors on January 1, 2019.

The partners believe their success is due to their commitment to giving rather than receiving, in addition to their quality work. Because they both were raised by single moms without a lot of financial support, they have chosen to support underprivileged kids through the Kiwanis Club of Williamsport. This is the perfect outlet for Nicholas and Dylan to express their gratitude for the opportunity and prosperity they’ve found in Williamsport.

Cameron Maxwell
Partner
Think Flooring
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

With 15 years of wood flooring experience, Cameron is proud to be a fourth-generation family member working in the timber flooring industry. He began his career installing floors, but his interest wasn’t limited to sanding and polishing. So, eight years ago, he started his own business, Think Flooring, to offer clients the full package – from supply to install to sanding and polishing.

The business has faced challenges, but overcoming them has kept Cameron engaged and alert, and taught him to push through the hard times with perseverance. Although Western Australia’s timber flooring industry has hit hard times of late, Cameron’s innovative marketing concepts, excellent work ethic, willingness to learn new techniques, and his attention to detail have helped the company reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

Kyle Neuroh
Owner
Neuroh Hardwood
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Kyle started in the Nashville area doing simple installs, sanding, and finishing. Today, he is one of the leaders in custom floors inlays and textured flooring. Neuroh Hardwood is a small, family-based company that takes pride in their work. They love a challenge and enjoy working with clients to create a floor that suits their individual tastes and space.

Kyle is an NWFA Certified Installer and Certified Sand and Finisher and has been recognized with the “Super Service Award” from Angie’s List for four years in a row. This is no surprise to his customers who note his attention to detail, flexibility, patience, dependability, knowledge, and professionalism in their reviews. He also works with local contractors, including his competition, to ensure quality workmanship and support the wood flooring industry.

Kyle’s company sponsors the annual bike-a-thon of Carterville Christian School, part of Martin Memorial Church, to help students raise money to support their community.

Vlad Nikolin
Owner
Hardwood Perfections
EVERETT, WASHINGTON

Vlad has enjoyed working with wood since the 5th grade. This passion continued through high school and into college, where he supported himself through nursing school by working as a wood floor mechanic. In 2011, he founded Hardwood Perfections to provide customers with custom wood floors. Today, the company employs 11 people. The company also maintains an in-house woodshop where they create one-of-a-kind custom woodwork like mantels and staircases for customers who want to give their homes a unique touch.

Vlad is an NWFA Certified Sand and Finish, Certified Installer, and Certified Wood Floor Inspector.

Committed to customer service, Hardwood Perfections stays in close contact with clients before, during and after each project with pictures, texts, calls, and emails at each stage.

In his spare time, Vlad enjoys spending time with his wife, his three beautiful daughters, and 17 siblings.

Cesar Olguin
Chief Operating Officer
CIC Floors LLC
PEACHTREE CORNERS, GEORGIA

After serving in the Mexican military, Cesar came to the U.S. to support family members already residing there. After 14 years as an installer, Cesar started CIC Floors to help others master the skills he had learned. Today, the company sustains his four children and provides quality jobs for skilled workers to provide for their families. CIC is committed to improving the lives of floor installers who often suffer from under-employment and low wages.

Under Cesar’s leadership, CIC has grown an incredible amount in three years and supports organizations such as the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund, providing scholarships for women returning to college. This resonates with Cesar, whose mother was a single parent of four in Mexico. CIC also supports Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Goal Scholarship Funds. Cesar is a member of the Georgia Hispanic Construction Association, Chamber of Commerce, and a graduate of the Mentor Protege Program.

Mark Opperman
Owner
Pro Finish Custom Wood Floors LLC
PORTLAND, MICHIGAN

Mark has been a trim carpenter since 1998. In 2006, he started his company, just before the mid-Michigan housing market experienced a sharp decline. He consulted with Floor Style products about diversifying into sanding and finishing wood floors. He had no experience finishing floors and spent his life savings on a set of brand equipment, including full dust containment. Mark received a two-day crash course from Floor Style, as well as continued technical support.

Mark is a member of Bona’s BCCP program and has completed NWFA’s Intermediate Install, as well as Sanding & Finishing classes. He is currently completing the online portions of the NWFA University with hopes of becoming certified. Mark has also attended training classes at Rubio Monocoat, Loba-Wakol, Duraseal, and American Sanders.

He’s always learning, staying at the forefront of technology, and embracing new trends. His reputation for quality, cleanliness, and professionalism in the mid-Michigan market helps grow his business each year.

Jorge Perez
Owner/Installer/Refinisher
Epic Hardwood Floors LLC
TACOMA, WASHINGTON

Jorge is a U.S. veteran and NWFA Certified Professional with 13 years’ experience. His family-owned business caters to clients with unique ideas and tastes who want custom floors, stains, and colors.

In reviews of his work, customers praise him for his attention to detail, knowledge, responsiveness, promptness, honesty, communication skills, professionalism, and relentless determination to make sure that customers are happy and satisfied.

He also enjoys working on jobs for our “men in blue” and has done jobs for homicide detectives, highway patrol officers , chiefs of police, and active and retired police offers. In the future, Epic Hardwood Floors plans to partner with Habitat for Humanity to provide products and services for low-income housing.

Jessica Peterson
Installer/Sander/Finisher
Custom Hardwood Floors by Jeffries
MIDLAND, MICHIGAN

Jessica began installing, sanding, and finishing hardwood flooring in 2013. In her previous job at a local lumber mill, she worked on grading and defecting hardwood floors. Since joining Custom Hardwood Floors by Jeffries, she has become a Bona Certified Craftsman and plans to attend several more training classes.

In recent years, Jessica has taken on the role of teacher for new employees at Custom Hardwood Floors by Jeffries. She enjoys attending conventions to learn more about advancements in wood flooring, and sharing that knowledge with others at her company. Jessica is also very interested in promoting the trades in schools, especially for women who may not have considered this career.

Jessica has two sons: Ethan is a freshman at Central Michigan University having completed his basic training for the National Guard, and Chandler is a junior in high school who hopes to pursue a football career.

Jason Price
Owner
Solid Hardwood Flooring
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

Jason started working with hardwood floors in 2006 after Andrew Jackson of Bluford Jackson Hardwood Floors offered to hire him and teach him the trade. Andy, a third-generation wood flooring craftsman, taught Jason everything he knew, and in 2013, Jason started Solid Hardwood Flooring.

With support from his local contractor friends, Jason’s business grew quickly. In May 2019, Jason won the Lägler Fly and Sand trip to Germany. For Jason, it was “an amazing experience,” which convinced him he was in the right industry. He takes a lot of pride in his work and wants all of his clients to see that.

Jason lives on James Island in Charleston, South Carolina, and is committed to keeping the planet clean. He recycles and encourages everyone he meets to pick up one piece of trash a day. He attends local beach clean-ups at Folly Beach with his local surfer community.

Simon Sandoval
Co-Founder
Maverick Hardwood Floors
OMAHA, NEBRASKA

Simon started working at his father’s wood flooring company as a child and has continued into adulthood. As the company began slowing down, Simon worked with another company in Omaha. A coworker approached Simon about starting a new company. Despite having a pregnant wife, Simon took a leap of faith. (Shortly after that, he learned they were expecting twins.)

In addition to sanding and finishing, Simon trains new employees about correct techniques through NWFA guidelines to ensure the industry’s and his company’s expected level of craftsmanship. He contributed to the development of the company’s new DOL/NWFA-approved apprenticeship program, regularly attends NWFA conventions, and takes courses through the NWFAU to keep current on the latest techniques as equipment and products evolve.

Despite the long hours, stress, and uncertainty, Maverick Hardwood Floors has grown and Simon has adapted to fill the roles needed while balancing his family duties as a husband and father of five.

Marc Schulz
Vice President
Lägler North America and Palo Duro Hardwoods
DENVER, COLORADO

Marc has been with Lägler, Germany since 2011. His dedication, drive to grow and learn, and commitment to himself and the company have helped him climb the ladder to vice president. He left Germany in 2015 to help create a new division in the U.S., embracing the challenge with positivity, determination, and dedication.

Marc’s hands-on approach to supporting his team means he’s in the field teaching contractors how to use Lägler equipment, while coordinating sales and marketing inhouse, and supporting distributors. He truly works as a partner to better the lives of those who put their blood, sweat, and tears into making the industry successful. His focus is on the real people who are making a sustainable life for their families.

Marc spends his free time writing articles, serving on committees, and thinking about bettering the industry.

Aaron Sheaves
Managing Member/Owner
Sheaves Floors LLC
WEYERS CAVE, VIRGINIA

Aaron Sheaves started going to job sites with his father at age 8, tacking gym floors. By age 12, he was coating entire gym floors each summer during his school breaks. Aaron continued working summers, weekends, and after school until he graduated and became a full-time installer/sander/finisher for Sheaves Floors LLC.

He worked his way through the ranks as crew leader, installation manager, salesperson, and now owner. He has completed many manufacturers’ courses and is an Armstrong Certified Installer, Bona Certified Craftsman, and NWFA Certified Installer and Sand and Finisher. His work has been featured in several industry publications. He received the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018, and the Houzz Best of Houzz Service Award for 2015, 2017, and 2018.

Aaron donates time, labor, and materials to local churches and schools, and Sheaves Floors LLC has sponsored many youth athletic teams over the years.

Mike Somodean
Owner
M.S.C.S. Inc.
ROSWELL, GEORGIA

Mike has been a flooring contractor since 2006 and an NWFA member since 2017. His company, M.S.C.S. Inc. Hardwood Flooring Contractors is an NWFA member, and Mike is a Certified Installer, Certified Sand and Finisher, and a volunteer instructor for NWFA’s sanding and finishing classes. He is also a Bona Certified Craftsman, and was Lägler PST Certified during the 2019 Lägler Fly and Sand trip in Germany. Mike also attended all Loba-Wakol training and American Sanders Advanced Sanding school.

Mike volunteers at NWFA classes and seeks to raise awareness about the value of NWFA membership and education. He also mentors fellow contractors in the Atlanta area, and donates his time and skill working with Habitat for Humanity, as well as supporting community fundraisers.

He supports the inclusion program for children with disabilities at the school where his wife, Andrea, teaches. M.S.C.S. Inc. sponsors fundraisers for Mike’s church, and contributes to Habitat for Humanity.

Jeremy Summerford
Owner
Faith Hardwood Flooring
STATESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

At 14, Jeremy began working in hardwood flooring and continued for the next 12 years. In 2008, at 26, he started Faith Hardwood Flooring. He joined NWFA in 2016 and attended NWFA Expo, quickly realizing the education he’d been missing.

In 2017, he became an NWFA Certified Sand and Finisher. He took classes at Rubio Monocoat’s site in Texas and Loba-Wakol’s Charlotte facility. In 2018, he became an NWFA Certified Installer and attended the NWFA Expo. In 2019, he attended American Sanders’ Advanced Sanding and Finishing class.

As Jeremy’s business has grown, he has given back. Jeremy visits Uruguay for one week every year to build churches and share his faith. He participates in his church’s men’s construction ministry, helping those with housing or remodeling needs. In 2019, he spent a week as cabin leader for 27 boys age six through 12 at Western Church of God Junior Camp.

Mollie Surratt
CEO & Founder
The White Label Studio
CALHOUN, GEORGIA

Mollie grew up in her family’s couture bridal business, now the stage of the hit TLC show, Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta. After graduating from Samford University with a journalism and mass communication major, Mollie founded Cosmopolitan Events, an upscale event planning firm. She married and relocated to Georgia, spending 12 years in public relations/marketing for some of the world’s largest flooring and carpet manufacturers, including Shaw Floors, Anderson Hardwood, and Mohawk Flooring.

In 2017, Mollie founded The White Label Studio, a boutique marketing agency, primarily servicing the flooring industry.

A mother of two young girls, she is active in Rock Bridge Community Church in Calhoun, Georgia, and serves on the host team. This summer, Mollie took her eldest daughter on her first mission trip to serve families with children affected by childhood cancer. She is also a mentor who encourages, motivates, and listens.

Chris Veety
Vice President of Direct Sales
Cali Brands
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Chris began working at Cali at 27 as a sales rep and has been with the company for 12 years. Today he oversees Cali’s residential, trade, and commercial business. He played an integral role in helping the green building product manufacturer evolve from a direct-to-consumer model to a business serving a variety of channels, including national flooring dealers and specialty retailers.

He implemented best practices in training and product expertise, empowering reps to provide excellent customer service, prompting a Net Promoter Score of 81. Chris drove the development of Cali’s trade and commercial channels, initially calling contractors and builders to introduce the company’s products.

Chris has coached Little League for six years and also coached Cali’s after-hours softball and kickball teams to victory, winning the kickball league championship. He has participated in Earth Day tree plantings at San Elijo State Beach campground and Balboa Park, and participated in beach clean-ups with San Diego’s Surfrider Foundation chapter.

Guillermo Velarde
Program Manager
North Carolina State University
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

In 2008, Guillermo joined North Carolina State University’s Wood Machining and Tooling Research Program, becoming a project leader in Hodges Wood Products Laboratory in 2012, and eventually program manager for the Department of Forest Biomaterials Technical Services Program. Currently, he manages and mentors several students, giving them a safe environment to gain hands-on experience and professional skills.

An advocate for the wood industry, he shares science-based knowledge and collaborates with others to grow the industry. Serving on NWFA’s Emerging Leaders Council, he has helped create a workforce development partnership between NWFA and NCSU and presented at NWFA Symposiums. He represents his department on the College of Natural Resources Safety Committee, reviewing and updating safety training, conducting inspections, and ensuring current practices comply with University safety standards.

When he’s not with his family and two-year-old twin boys, Guillermo volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and the U.S. Tennis Association.

Holly Williams
Marketing Manager
Horizon Forest Products
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

Holly has been a member of the Horizon Forest Products team for more than 14 years. As the company has grown, Holly has led the marketing team in modernizing the company’s web presence, automating daily systems, and keeping up with the growing marketing needs of each of Horizon Forest Products’ branches. Holly was named the Corporate Employee of the Year in 2010 and again in 2015.

She is an active member at Southbridge Fellowship where she helps lead the youth ministry and conducts a weekly high school girls’ Bible study. She took a leave of absence from work a few years ago to travel to Madagascar, where she served on the Mercy Ship, helping those with little to no access to healthcare. She also serves as a volunteer and board member for Able to Serve, a faith-based nonprofit ministry that helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn, grow, lead, and serve.

Ryan Winkler
Owner & Manager
Lynden Interiors
LYNDEN, WASHINGTON

Ryan started working in hardwood flooring in 2005 as an installation helper at Lynden Floor Design, now Lynden Interiors. He eventually became the company’s main sander and finisher and remained until 2009. From 2009 to 2017, he served as a firefighter.

In 2014, Ryan got his contractor’s license and began working with clients directly as well as subcontracting for shops installing hardwood and providing sanding and finishing under the company name Evergreen State Interiors. In 2016, he opened a small hardwood showroom in Lynden, Washington. In December of that year, the owner and founder of Lynden Interiors approached Ryan about taking over Lynden Interiors. Ryan accepted the challenge and became the official owner of Lynden Interiors on February 1, 2017. In this role, he offers complete design solutions for residential and commercial projects.

Kris Young
Vice President
Olde Wood Ltd.
MAGNOLIA, OHIO

Kris has been with Olde Wood since the company began tearing down barns in the early days. Today, Kris develops new products and custom finishes, nurtures national and international relationships, manages acquisitions and mergers, and much more.

As Olde Wood has grown over the past 20 years, Kris has been behind the scenes, also growing in knowledge and expertise through research, first-hand experience, and hard work. Most importantly, Kris enjoys the relationships with his colleagues at Olde Wood.

Kris spends his spare time with his wife, Celesta, and their two beautiful daughters, Aislynn and Millie. They enjoy the outdoors and traveling and are very involved in the Living Water Church of Dalton, where Kris volunteers on the production team and actively supports worldwide Christian outreach programs. As a Crossfit Ambassador and a Level 1 Certified Crossfit Trainer, he inspires people to meet their fitness goals and live their best lives