The search is on for Woodworking Network’s 9th 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 13.

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. 

“We are again proud to celebrate the commitment to excellence portrayed by some of the youngest, best, and brightest contributors to the woodworking industry in North America. This year’s team of honorees will join 320 alumni who have been recognized with this distinction in the past,” said Tim Fixmer, president and CEO of CCI Media, the parent of 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.

“For the past 20 years we have heard that this industry needs to find the next group of leaders. Each year the Woodworking Network identifies that group and this year will be no different. These professionals will exemplify thought, innovation, work ethic, ingenuity, and more, and how they move their respective businesses forward. We are proud to bring you the next leaders of the woodworking industry with our 40 under 40 of 2024,” 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 prior to the IWF Fair in Atlanta, at Woodworking Network events and in print in the FDMC October Leadership issue. 

“Being selected as a 40 Under 40 Honoree carries far more than the distinction of public industry recognition,” Fixmer added. “We believe that networking with other industry leaders will help these young professionals continue their leadership path to enhanced personal and professional growth.”

Help identify and recognize these diverse and distinguished individuals. Nominate a team member or enter yourself at bit.ly/submitunder40 by May 13. To qualify, candidates must be 40 or younger by Dec. 31, 2024, 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 2024 is sponsored by PaintLine and Allmoxy.