Introducing the 2024 Hardwood Floors Magazine 40 Under 40

Hardwood Floors is honored to recognize 40 industry professionals under 40 who are helping to determine the future of the wood flooring industry. These individuals are today’s movers and shakers already setting the pace for tomorrow.

We are excited to spotlight these outstanding men and women whose career accomplishments have moved them to the forefront. Their professional track records have helped establish them as some of today’s brightest stars – before their 40th birthday.

Read on to learn more about them.

1. Vinny Albuquerque
Owner
Vinny & Wes Flooring
Murfreesboro, TN

Originally from Brazil, Vinny Albuquerque’s passion for the craft and technical expertise has been crucial to the success of projects in Tennessee and across the United States. With meticulous attention to detail, he ensures that every project is executed perfectly. His creative problem-solving abilities and entrepreneurial vision have enabled him to identify and capitalize on emerging trends, driving sustainable growth for his company across multiple regions.

Albuquerque has participated in high-profile television projects, including “This Old House” and HGTV. These collaborations have allowed him to share his knowledge and enthusiasm for flooring with a broader audience.

Albuquerque has contributed to the community actively by mentoring aspiring flooring professionals and participating in local training programs. He also is involved in charitable projects, offering his skills to renovate and improve community centers and homes for those in need.

2. Megan Anders
VP & General Manager
Frame Industries Inc.
Chelsea, MI

Megan Anders has been working at the family business, Frame Industries (Chelsea Plank Flooring), since she was old enough to hand out business cards at the community fair. Though she earned a master’s degree in mathematical statistics and taught mathematics at Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw Community College, Anders has always worked in the office for Frame Hardwoods in her “time off.”

She began working in accounting for Frame Industries, learning the ins and outs of the business from the top down. A dedicated and compassionate second-generation leader for the company, she became vice president and general manager in 2021.

Anders coordinates lumber donations to local school wood shop programs, gives factory tours to high school classes, donates to local youth sports programs, and supports renovations of the local park play structure. She also supports events for Washtenaw County’s Shop with a Cop, the St. Louis Center, and the Chelsea Firefighters.

3. Chris Bailey
Owner/Operator
Sand Tech/Technical Support
Bailey Floor Sanding
Bailey Hardwoods
Chapmanville, WV

Wood flooring runs in the family for Chris Bailey. He began installing with his dad, Owen, at the age of 14 and began refinishing floors five years later. Now, as an NWFA Certified Sand and Finish Professional, he handles all of the sanding work for his family’s company, Bailey Hardwoods. He even branched out to become the owner and operator of Bailey Floor Sanding, servicing West Virginia and Eastern Kentucky.

From a community service standpoint, Bailey completed the refinishing work, at cost, for the Marjorie R. Oakley Home for Women, a local substance use recovery center. Recently, he and his family gathered donations from their community and brought supplies to help areas of North Carolina and Tennessee that were devastated by Hurricane Helene. He supports local youth sports leagues, and his family provides support to people in need during the holidays. He and his wife have three children.

4. Izaiah Barrow
Owner
iSandNewYork LLC
New York, NY

Izaiah Barrow, a third-generation wood flooring specialist, has built his career by mastering the craft his granduncle and uncle handed down. His dedication to the trade is evident in his efforts to elevate it within his community, showcasing skill and passion. He has been recognized for mentoring the next generation, advocating for skilled trades, and his role in initiatives combining economic development and community improvement.

Barrow manages a boys and girls AAU basketball team (the Rising Kings & Queens), and he organizes food drives, block parties, holiday events, and more to support those in need. He is collaborating with local officials to create “A Floorman’s Dream,” an economic development program remodeling senior homes while providing youth with job training and trade opportunities. He is co-founder of the nonprofit We Are Theory 9, with a goal of developing, progressing, and improving the Kingsbridge community. Therefore, it’s no surprise he received a New York proclamation for outstanding service in philanthropy.

5. Lee Becker
Owner
Footprints Floors of Southern CT
Stamford, CT

After more than a decade working on the corporate side of the alcohol industry, Lee Becker embarked upon owning and managing Footprints Floors of Southern Connecticut in January 2022. In less than three years, he has expanded his business successfully into northern Westchester County in New York. Becker and his crew take pride in creating beauty in people’s homes, setting the literal foundation for family stories and memories to unfold. He has become a resource for his fellow franchise owners in the Northeast and is proud to serve as a mentor and leader in his region.

Becker has earned the NWFA Certified Sales Advisor and Certified Installation Professional credentials and is working toward becoming an NWFA Certified Sand and Finish Professional. He regularly discusses the value of being a certified advisor and installer in a customer’s home. He espouses the importance of operating by the NWFA standards for all of the company’s work.

6. Brad Christian
Territory Executive
Elias Wilf
Chesapeake, VA

Brad Christian began his career in the floor covering industry at Horizon Forest Products in 2016, working counter sales for flooring contractors. His rapid acquisition of industry knowledge and developing key relationships led to a promotion to outside sales and being honored as Employee of the Year in 2017. He then joined Elias Wilf in 2021, where he further honed his sales abilities and began selling products and services.

Those who nominated Christian say his availability to address questions and willingness to conduct sales presentations or provide refreshers demonstrate his commitment to exceptional customer service. Christian is more than a sales rep; he is a valuable resource and a trusted partner. His ability to blend technical expertise with genuine care for his clients sets him apart in the industry, making him an indispensable asset to any team and a reliable guide in floor coverings.

7. Justin Cole
Production Manager
Frame Industries Inc.
Chelsea, MI

Justin Cole has worked for Frame Industries, Inc. (Chelsea Plank Flooring) for 13 years, and he has grown to be one of the company’s most knowledgeable, reliable, and dedicated team members. Though Cole began as a general laborer on the production team, he quickly advanced to molder operator, assistant production manager, and maintenance manager and is now flourishing as a production manager. He consistently upholds quality standards and pushes for continuous improvement while also maintaining an impressive level of commitment to the overall well-being of his coworkers.

Cole plays a large role in the company’s community involvement, making donations to the Washtenaw County 4-H program and conducting factory tours for local high school students. He also is known for donating his time and lending a helping hand to friends, family, and fellow coworkers when they need assistance with a car repair or a home project. He will bend over backward to help someone in need.

8. Carson DeLay
Sales Representative
Legno Bastone Wide Plank Flooring
Naples, FL

Carson DeLay’s journey in the flooring industry began early, following in her father’s footsteps. She started as a lead member in a prestigious wood flooring gallery, honing her skills in product knowledge presentations for luxury projects.

DeLay’s dedication led her to join Legno Bastone as a territory manager in 2023. She takes pride in representing an award-winning product within a close-knit family environment. Her commitment to excellence and passion for building relationships define her approach, shaping a lasting legacy in the flooring sector.

Outside of work, DeLay has volunteered extensively, contributing to beach cleanups and causes that benefit children and shelter animals. As an avid car enthusiast, she actively participates in local car shows and jeep events, supporting the children’s hospital and many other organizations.

9. Scott Dennison
Owner/Operator
Bucks Hardwood Floor
Doylestown, PA

Scott Dennison’s introduction to the residential remodeling trades began 20 years ago while working as a carpenter with his dad. While Dennison’s dad wanted him to learn the business end of things, he truly enjoyed working with his hands. Ultimately, he landed with a local hardwood flooring company for several years before leaving in 2022.

He credits his business’s success to two decades of lessons learned, thousands of hours spent on the tools, and hundreds of hours of education through free business mentorship aids and books. Bucks Hardwood Floor now has more than 40 five-star reviews on Google and was runner-up for Best of Bucks County this year.

Dennison and his team give back to multiple youth sports leagues and provide discounted services for historical sites and local community centers to maintain their wood sports floors.

10. Alex Franklin
Owner/Operator
Revive Decks N Floors LLC
Columbia Falls, MT

After serving as the foreman of a hardwood flooring company for more than seven years, Alex Franklin took the leap in 2021 to start his venture, Revive Decks N Floors. He handles all the work himself, without employees or subcontractors, and is committed to delivering the best results possible. His work ethic, quality results, and passion for hardwood flooring have earned him multiple five-star reviews on his Google business page and company Facebook page.

Additionally, Franklin has launched a virtual training group and mentored several contractors in hardwood flooring. Teaching and passing on knowledge brings him immense satisfaction. He also hosted a networking event for local contractors, fostering valuable connections within the industry.

Though Franklin is described as someone who truly eats, sleeps, and breathes hardwood flooring, he prioritizes family and is an active member of his church congregation. He generously volunteers his time and labor to support the local community.

11. Tyler Gallagher
Project Manager
Arbor Zen Hardwood Floors
Black Mountain, NC

Tyler Gallagher has been in the hardwood flooring industry his entire life and is the third generation of his family to do so. His father, Adam, owns a hardwood flooring business in San Diego, California. He worked for his dad for years before joining Arbor Zen Hardwood Floors as a project manager. Since then, he has provided Arbor Zen with his extensive knowledge and expertise of flooring.

Gallagher works closely with clients, homeowners, builders, and crews to support their needs and goals with professionalism and hospitality. He is said to notice even the smallest details and deliver superior service.

Arbor Zen Hardwood Floors has a #25 trees promise, where the company plants 25 trees for each project it completes. Gallagher has planted many trees as part of this program. Earlier this year, he installed floors in micro homes that are part of BeLoved Asheville, which provides housing for those who have struggled with housing insecurity.

12. Charles Graham
National Sales Manager
Herwynen Sawmill Ltd./Superior Flooring
Rockwood, ON

A graduate of Bart College in Quebec City, Charles Graham has spent his entire career working in the wood flooring industry, beginning in sales of sundries before transitioning to hardwood flooring sales. His commitment and enthusiasm for the hardwood flooring industry are well-recognized and valued by his colleagues. He possesses a remarkable ability to identify customers’ needs swiftly and collaborates effectively with manufacturers to ensure that both parties’ expectations are met and aligned.

Graham’s commitment to his customers and the hardwood flooring industry is only matched by his love for his young family. He has three sons who play competitive hockey and a young daughter he strives to keep up with during his free time. He organizes and sponsors the Grand Youth DLC Baseball Tournament every summer and coaches his own children as well as children in his community in all types of sports.

13. Oliver Hellested
Owner
Footprints Floors of Greater Rhode Island
Warwick, RI

Oliver Hellested operates Footprints Floors of Greater Rhode Island while wearing multiple hats. This includes both sales and project management. All the while, he has grown the business to revenue goals higher than anticipated. During the past two years, there have been a ton of learning curves and firsts. No matter what the situation, the main standard he strives to focus on is always putting the customer first.

Hellested is an NWFA Certified Sales Advisor. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont.

He and his family proudly donate to Toys for Tots annually. Over the last year, they have had the privilege to help collect books for a local book drive for children in need. Having a young family, he takes pride in these charitable contributions and always looks for ways to give back more to his community.

14. Hap Howell
VP
Howell Hardwood Flooring
Dothan, AL

Hap Howell passed his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam before going to work in public accounting for Ernst and Young in Birmingham, Alabama. A few years later, he took a job at Brasfield & Gorrie, a large general contractor in the southeast. There, he was honored by the Birmingham Business Journal as a NextGen leader in finance as well as promoted to a management position.

In 2022, he and his family moved to Dothan, Alabama, and joined the team at Howell Hardwood Flooring, where he wears many hats. He has worked on several projects, from R&D tax credits to designing the company’s new 25-year lookbook.

Howell is the board secretary of the Wiregrass Habitat for Humanity and part of the Dothan Alumni Cohort, which aims to showcase the city and help solve community problems. He also is active at his church, where he has served as a Sunday night second-grade teacher.

15. Michael Howick
Owner
Maverick Hardwood Floors
Omaha, NE

Though Michael Howick had been a steel worker, when the recession hit, he quickly found his plans to be a welder had gone by the wayside. He eventually found a job working on floors and fell in love with the trade. With more than a decade of experience in the field, Howick has founded a successful small business, providing high-quality flooring services to the community. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence have made a significant impact.

He has shown a deep dedication to the profession’s future by establishing an apprenticeship program for hardwood flooring in Omaha, Nebraska. This program has not only provided valuable training and mentorship to aspiring professionals, but also has helped ensure the flooring industry’s continued growth and development. Howick is an actively involved church member and has six kids, which he says ensures he never has a dull moment.

16. Jon Jarvis
Director of Operations
Footprints Floors
Greenwood Village, CO

Jon Jarvis has been pivotal in Footprints Floors’ nationwide growth and expansion. Serving as the initial point of contact for new franchisees, he has successfully onboarded and facilitated the training of more than 100 individuals.

A key achievement in his career has been the creation of Footprints University, a training program developed in partnership with the NWFA and NTCA. This program ensures that every new franchisee receives comprehensive and rigorous training before launching their business. Additionally, he oversees and facilitates ongoing education for Footprints Floors members, enabling them to obtain advanced certifications and continuously enhance their skills.

Jarvis has been the driving force behind First Fruits, the charitable wing of Footprints Floors, and coordinates monetary donations and volunteer efforts. Under his leadership, First Fruits has established partnerships with various non-profit organizations, including Hope’s Promise, which focuses on adoption, orphan and foster care, and Open Door Ministries, which addresses poverty and community building in Denver.

17. Mike Kinney
Logistics Coordinator
Derr Flooring Co.
Olyphant, PA

Derr Flooring Co. opened its doors more than 100 years ago. Since then, the flooring distribution company has grown significantly, with seven warehouses across four states. It remains a family business, with Mike Kinney as part of the fifth generation operating Derr Flooring today.

Since joining the company in 2014, Kinney has become a jack of all trades, contributing in various capacities within the business. His roles have included working inside the office, serving as a delivery driver, and operating in the warehouse. His versatility and dedication exemplify the family’s dedication to maintaining and growing Derr Flooring’s legacy.

Kinney recently assisted in building a U.S. Veterans Memorial in Greenfield Township, Pennsylvania. The memorial features the names of past and present veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice. His dedication to this project reflects his commitment to supporting the community and honoring our nation’s heroes.

18. Andrew Ledford
Owner
Ledford Sports Floors
Glenpool, OK

Andrew Ledford started his career at Praters Flooring and opened his company, Ledford Sports Floors, in 2017. His company’s primary focus is sanding, staining, and painting gymnasium floors. In the past seven years, he has built an impressive client list, completing sports floors for the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Notre Dame, the University of Florida, West Virginia University, and Creighton University.

Ledford provides his services for free to underprivileged schools and communities around the Tulsa, Oklahoma, area. He donates money and time to various local organizations and is described as always being willing to share his knowledge to help anyone in the flooring industry who needs direction or assistance on a project. He and his wife have supported their kids’ band and athletic programs at school. Their favorite hobby is golf, and the couple participates in First Tee Tulsa and other local charity tournaments.

19. John Leonard
Owner
Old Reliable Flooring LLC
Cincinnati, OH

Since middle school, John Leonard has been working with his father, Kurt, and his grandfather (also named John Leonard) to continue the business, which started in 1941 with his great-grandmother, Margaret Leonard. The standards of quality, fine craftsmanship, and customer dedication have been passed down from generation to generation. From homeowners to prominent architects and builders, Old Reliable Flooring is synonymous with quality work.

Described as exemplifying career and family balance, Leonard works with and learns from his father, all while raising two young kids. He is an active volunteer with the Special Olympics, an organization close to his heart, as his wife, Brittany, works in special education. Leonard serves on his high school’s alumni board and is quick to offer career advice to young people interested in the trades, with an emphasis on hardwood flooring.

20. Eli McCullen
Foreman/Crew Lead
McCullen’s Custom Wood Floors
Dunn, NC

Eli McCullen has worked full-time with McCullen’s Custom Wood Floors for 12 years. However, as is often the case with a family business, he notes he’s been working part-time there pretty much his whole life.

In his current role, McCullen takes the lead on handling estimates and is described as doing an excellent job communicating with customers about their needs and wants, offering various options for their projects. He orders all the materials and plays a lead role in the installation and refinishing crews. He has a passion for custom design, especially for including something in the foyer of a home to catch the eye.

McCullen has exceptionally high standards for the future of his father’s business. He and his wife are very active members of their church and contribute to local youth sports programs.

21. Cameron Merrick
VP
Merrick Hardwoods
Somerset, KY

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kentucky and an MBA, Cameron Merrick is very involved in the different divisions of the Merrick Group.

As the company’s third generation, Merrick serves as vice president of Merrick Hardwoods and is involved in operations. Merrick Hardwoods is one of the largest manufacturers of Appalachian hardwood lumber in the United States and is NOFMA-certified. He also is president of Kentucky Hardwood Lumber Company, Merrick Hardwoods’ sawmill division. In addition, he works with Somerset Pellet Fuel on their operations and sales.

Serving others is important to Merrick, who has traveled to Guatemala to help build feeding centers and an orphanage. He also serves on a local economic advisory board. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf and pickleball.

22. Danny Miller
Tech & Training Specialist
Bona
Englewood, CO

As a member of Bona’s tech and training team for the past few years, Danny Miller’s knowledge of Bona’s products and processes has made him a great representative for the company. His ability to connect and passionately lead contractors and distributors through Bona’s system has grown the program. Whether it’s a three-day sand and finish school, a two-day Bona Certified Craftsman certification school, or a one-day product demo, Miller is always willing to share his knowledge and passion for Bona with anyone who needs it.

Miller volunteers with the Food Bank of the Rockies. Those who nominated him describe Miller as the first person willing to step up to help someone in need. Whether it is helping friends and family move, pet sitting, or repairs, they say all you have to do is ask.

23. Bobby Mohr
Service Center Manager
Bona
Englewood, CO

Fresh out of college, Bobby Mohr started working as a flooring installer and sander with Atlantic Hardwood Flooring in Daytona Beach, Florida. Then, in 2012, he was hired in tech and training for Bona, traveling to train customers all over the U.S. and providing technical support over the phone. Six years later, he moved into machine service, where he learned how to repair equipment and gained knowledge of the various spare parts for each machine to assist customers. He was promoted to service center manager a few years ago, where he supports contractors and distributors all over the U.S. and Canada.

Mohr is involved in the running community and has completed three marathons. He encourages runners of all types to do their best. He is an outdoor enthusiast alongside his dogs, enjoying everything Colorado, from camping to skiing, always leaving “no trace” on trails and mountains.

24. Josh Morris
Territory Manager
Metropolitan
Indianapolis, IN

Josh Morris was on his way to a career in wildlife biology until he happened to be seated next to the president of Gilford Flooring at a restaurant. That chance encounter catapulted him into a job within the flooring industry. Morris quickly demonstrated talent – he was awarded “Sales Rep of the Year” and was promoted to regional manager within three years.

Morris joined Metropolitan Hardwood in 2020, tasked with launching the Midwest region’s first branch in Indianapolis. Under his leadership, he has expanded Metropolitan’s reach to include territories in Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky. He continued adding to his skillset by becoming an NWFA Certified Sales Advisor.

Outside of his career, Morris is passionate about coaching and mentoring rising baseball athletes, including his nephew. He coaches Little League baseball and his daughter’s 4 – 6-year-old Tee Ball team. Each year, he joins his wife, a Children’s Museum Guild member, to volunteer inside the Haunted House – the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’s largest fundraiser.

25. Austin Perrin
Regional Sales Director
Intermountain Wood Flooring
Boise, ID

More than 10 years ago, Austin Perrin started working for Intermountain Wood Flooring. From the age of 16, he has worked in almost every role for the company, including warehouse, driver, inside sales, outside sales, general manager, regional director, and product manager. During that time, he has grown to become a great team member, leader, salesman, coach/mentor, and manager.

Perrin’s accomplishments with only one decade in the industry are commendable, and those who nominated him say it can all be attributed to his drive and passion to be successful. Although Perrin has grown tremendously in his early professional life, his greatest joy has been meeting and marrying the love of his life and beginning a new family with her in 2024. Hunting, football, and basketball also have been a big part of his life, as he has been known to challenge his coworkers in an honest game of P.I.G., which he usually wins.

26. Juan Reina
Director of Products
RIVA Spain
Miami, FL

Juan Reina has been integral to RIVA Spain’s growth in the U.S. market. While he started in the operations department, he advanced to the position of product director. In this role, he has been a key player in orchestrating product collections and designing high-quality products with customers’ needs in mind. Attending the many local and international trade shows helps Reina to source inspiration. He has taken the initiative with new collections such as RIVA MAX, LA RIVA, RIVA Moss, and the Tierra collection.

Since 2017, Reina has volunteered for G’s Angels, a foundation dedicated to spreading awareness about the opioid epidemic. He has been fundamental in a partnership with the University of Miami, where RIVA Spain is investing in young architects to lead the development of more sustainable practices in the industry. Finally, he is a wood master who provides CEU training to create awareness of engineered hardwood flooring.

27. John Rendleman
Division Leader
Horizon Forest Products
New England

John Rendleman began his career with Horizon Forest Products in 2012 as a warehouse manager. Since then, he has worked his way through the company’s ranks in various roles.
As a sales representative, Rendleman was recognized for his outstanding efforts by being awarded branch employee of the year in 2015. A few years later, he was promoted to branch manager in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he achieved branch of the year for 2018 and 2020. He was promoted to Horizon Forest Products’ North Division Leader in 2022.

Rendleman is a devoted husband and the father of a one-year-old daughter. He and his wife regularly donate to the Young Life organization and support missions for kids to help build their faith while experiencing adventures and real-world activities. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

28. Patrick Russell
Owner
All American Floor Sanding & Installation
Ocala, FL

In 2004, Patrick Russell started sanding floors. Though he worked in other fields along the way, he always gravitated back to wood flooring. Likely because Russell says he loves the feeling that comes with taking something that doesn’t look appealing and turning it into something amazing.

Russell is now entering his eighth year as the owner of All American Floor Sanding & Installation. One of his favorite projects involved showcasing the uniqueness of heartpine in a home where it had been harvested directly on the property. This wood was worked into a stunning basket weave pattern bordered by live edge slabs in the home’s foyer.

Russell prioritizes passing on that passion to his children, so they’ve attended training classes with him. He also shares his knowledge and talent with industry friends by advising and traveling the country to help with projects. All of this explains why he’s been described as devoting his life to family, friends, and wood flooring.

29. Jeff Saroyan
VP/General Manager
Saroyan Hardwoods
Huntington Park, CA

Jeff Saroyan and his brother, J.R., are leading the future of Saroyan Hardwoods as the fourth generation of the company, founded by their great-grandmother, Susan. Saroyan Hardwoods now boasts six locations nationwide, from Kentucky to California. Jeff Saroyan joined the family business in 2017.

In the community, Saroyan gives guidance to his peers and youths within the congregation of his church. He mentors future business graduates for USC Marshall School of Business and is an elite member of Vistage, a CEO coaching and peer advisory organization. Additionally, he is a mentor through the Huntington Park Boys and Girls Club and works with local high schools and a local community college to offer guidance about employment. Saroyan conducts tours of their facility to show people options for their future careers. The Saroyan family is known for assisting employees and their families during times of need.

30. John (J.R.) Saroyan
VP of Operations
Saroyan Hardwoods
Huntington Park, CA

J.R. Saroyan and his brother, Jeff, are leading the future of Saroyan Hardwoods as the company’s fourth generation. Founded by their great-grandmother, Susan, the now more than 70-year-old flooring mill has six locations, including service and manufacturing facilities.

J.R. Saroyan officially joined the company in 2007. He serves as operational manager and is an accomplished leader in the hardwood lumber industry. His commitment to excellence has led him to work in various roles across the company, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing process to ensure the production of the highest-quality hardwood products.

Beyond his professional achievements, Saroyan gives back through charitable efforts such as hosting an annual golf tournament to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Working with the Huntington Park Boys and Girls Club has become a passion for Saroyan, acting as a mentor to underprivileged youths. He also sponsors Christmas gifts for those in need through Operation Santa Claus.

31. Conrad Schmucker
Owner
Premiero Floors
Middlefield, OH

When he was 16, Conrad Schmucker started installing wood floors part-time. From 2014 to 2019, he volunteered with nonprofits on several international disaster relief teams in war-torn countries. During that time, he says he enjoyed seeing young people take big steps and become empowered to live fulfilled lives.

Following his return, Schmucker bought tools and started Premiero Floors. He and his team have worked on many interesting projects since then, and he plans to open a showroom this year. He also has furthered his skills by becoming an NWFA Certified Installation Professional and Certified Sand and Finish Professional.

Service remains top of mind for Schmucker, as he is a volunteer firefighter in his community and helped start an international nonprofit, Chazak Rescue. He would like to help support other young people’s ability to volunteer with nonprofits and travel the way he did.

32. Alexandra Smith
Sales Representative
Buchanan Hardwood Flooring
Aliceville, AL

Alex Smith has been an incredible asset to Buchanan Hardwood Flooring’s sales team. She excels in securing new unfinished hardwood flooring distributors and rebuilding relationships lost during the pandemic. Her passion for both her work and customers is undeniable, and it drives her to deliver exceptional sales results time and again.

Before joining the Buchanan Hardwood team, Smith built her career in the medical field, working in physical therapy for more than seven years. This background has given her a unique perspective, contributing immensely to sales and client relationships. She continues to work weekends in acute care at a nearby hospital, showcasing her dedication to helping others.

Beyond her professional achievements, Smith is also a successful food blogger, running the popular “Tasty Ttown” on multiple social platforms. Additionally, she finds time to give back to the community, participating in the Lasagna Love initiative and baking meals for those facing food insecurity.

33. Justin Spivey
VP & Sales Manager
Cumberland Lumber & Mfg. Co.
McMinnville, TN

Before he began working at Cumberland Lumber, Justin Spivey graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Tennessee with a B.S. in Finance at the age of 20. He has worked in some capacity at nearly every position in the company, from lumber puller to grader to accounts receivable. When the company’s sales manager and plant manager retired at the end of 2020, he stepped up and took on both roles until they could find a new plant manager.

While still involved in daily operations, he now primarily handles all of Cumberland Lumber’s sales. He recently joined the NWFA/NOFMA Solid Wood Flooring Standards Task Force.

Spivey volunteers with Kids of the Community, a local non-profit that provides summer activities, meals, and mentorship for at-risk children. He is also a member of the local Rotary Club.

34. Jason Strunk
Owner/President
Grain Design Flooring
Florence, KY

Jason Strunk and his team of custom installers and finishers have worked on some of the most prominent projects in the Greater Cincinnati area, including the MWCS House and the Amberly House Renovation. Those who nominated him say that when top architects and designers need award-winning design and flawless execution, they often pursue Grain Design Flooring to bring their core values and expertise to projects.

Grain Design seeks out flooring contractors, and sometimes even non-flooring individuals, for life-changing opportunities through its second chance employment program. Strunk believes that some people need a safe place for a new beginning. A second chance is a place and a way for people to showcase their skills or learn new skills with a collaboration of like-minded craftsmen committed to sobriety, ethical living, quality work, honesty, and accountability. It is a model of uncompromising dedication to the craft, changing the course of people’s lives.

35. Amanda Swegle
VP
Habitat Hardwood Floors
Panama City Beach, FL

Amanda Swegle has become a master in hardwood floor installation and refinishing, co-founding Habitat Hardwood Floors with her husband, Derek. In under six years, she has developed exceptional skills, particularly in sanding, staining, and custom color matching, making her a highly sought-after professional in her beach community. Amanda prioritizes customer satisfaction and passionately educates clients on the benefits of wood floors, emphasizing their sustainability and health advantages. Her commitment to client education and high-quality craftsmanship enhances homes and elevates industry standards.

While known for her achievements in wood flooring, Swegle also is dedicated to community service, particularly in animal rescue. A passionate animal lover, she volunteers with local Florida pet rescue organizations, fostering several animals and aiding in finding them loving homes. Her selfless efforts to transport rescues and connect them with families demonstrate her strong character and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

36. Pawel Szymusiak
President/Owner
Best Floor #1 Inc.
Arlington Heights, IL

Born and raised in Poland, Pawel Szymusiak’s first summer job was working on hardwood floors while visiting his family in the U.S. at the age of 16. Two years later, he moved to the States and began working full-time in the industry. Soon after, he bought his first van and equipment and started his own business.

Having already spent more than half of his life in the hardwood floor business, Szymusiak loves to spread knowledge and advice to his peers in the industry. He holds the NWFA Certified Installation Professional and Certified Sand and Finish designations and is a Bona Certified Craftsman and a Woca Oil Craftsman.

Outside of hardwood floors, Szymusiak’s other great passion is playing the violin. He shares
that enthusiasm by sponsoring annual events to support young people in promoting Polish Highlander music and culture. He also enjoys spending time with his two daughters and his
wife, Magdalena.

37. Bre Turner
Project Manager
Samurai Hardwood Flooring Inc.
Nelson, BC

An integral part of the Samurai Hardwood Flooring team, Bre Turner has brought years of experience in project management within the flooring industry. With a keen eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills, she has successfully overseen numerous large-scale projects, consistently delivering on time and within budget. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and foster strong client relationships has made her an invaluable asset to the company.

Turner has contributed significantly to the Nelson community, particularly in the fitness industry. She is actively involved with Frontier Athletics, often volunteering her time. The biggest of these events is the Kootenay Klash, where if she’s not competing, Turner will serve as a judge and assist with set up and promotion. Her dedication to promoting health and wellness in the community makes a positive impact both inside and outside of the company.

38. Reid Waxman
Sr. Manager, Dealer Team
Roomvo
Toronto, ON

When Reid Waxman joined Roomvo in 2020, more than 1,000 dealers were using the platform across North America. In just four years, she played an instrumental role in growing the customer base to around 5,500 retailers. As the head of Roomvo’s Dealer Team, she is responsible for the entire customer journey for all dealers using the platform – from helping them get set up with Roomvo to ensuring they get the most out of the platform.

Under Waxman’s guidance, the dealer team at Roomvo maintains the core philosophy that they should help all independent dealers adapt to the modern world, making it easy to leverage technology in their business. She has spoken at countless industry events and single-handedly trained hundreds of dealers across the industry on how they can use Roomvo to close more sales. In 2024, the North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD) appointed her to their board of directors.

39. Chase Whitley
Outside Sales Representative
Horizon Forest Products
Norfolk, VA

Starting his career at Horizon Forest Products as a delivery driver when he was only 18 years old, Chase Whitley has shown extraordinary dedication and growth. He moved to an inside sales representative role for the company. After a decade, he moved to outside sales. This move has proven immensely successful, as Whitley has won Employee of the Year twice.

His commitment to clients is said to be unparalleled. Whether it’s a question about finishing, maintenance, or the specifics of different hardwood types, Whitley is always there with an answer, providing valuable support. His ability to balance technical expertise with exceptional customer service sets him apart in the industry; he is described as a phenomenal representative for Horizon and a trusted partner for clients.

Whitley is passionate about saltwater aquatics and is involved with the local coral reef community. He also is dedicated to his family as the father of one child with a second on the way.

40. Chelsea Zuccato
Sales Manager/Trader
Patrick Lumber Company
Portland, OR

With 17 years of experience in the lumber industry, Chelsea Zuccato currently serves as a shareholder and East Coast sales manager for Patrick Lumber Company. She also is a board member of Patrick Lumber Manufacturing and leads the marketing department. Throughout her career, Zuccato has been instrumental in driving sales growth, fostering industry relationships, and advancing innovative practices within the company.

Zuccato has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the NAWLA Young Emerging Lumber Professionals (YELP) 40 Under 40 Award and the Washington State University Notable Alumni Award in 2020.

She has been deeply involved with the North American Wholesale Lumber Association, where she served as chair of the education committee. Additionally, she is on the board of the North American Forest Foundation. Her passion is further reflected in her co-hosting of the podcast “Lumber Slingers,” which aims to educate and connect the broader community on critical issues in the lumber industry.