Video: Meet the 2020 Wood Industry 40 Under 40

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The virtual reception honoring the Wood Industry 40 Under 40 class of 2020 is now available on video. The presentation, seen live on Aug. 26, highlights the impact this year's group of 40 industry professionals have made at their jobs, in the community, and on the North American wood products manufacturing industry.

"We're now in our fifth year celebrating the 40 Under 40 and we couldn't be more pleased with the roster of nominees for this year's distinction," said Harry Urban, publisher of FDMC and Woodworking Network. "It's always difficult to pick 'the best of the best,' but the class of 2020 has also been rocked by the COVID-19 pandemic, and I applaud these honorees for their ability to keep their companies moving forward in this the toughest of times, while also dedicating themselves to their communities and public causes. These are outstanding women and men who paint a bright future for our industry."

"In 2020, some of the terms we have grown tired of hearing include 'unprecedented, pandemic,' and 'virtual.' But words like 'creative, ingenious, dedicated, tireless, committed, honest, considerate,' and 'thorough' are still music to our ears. Those are some of the many adjectives used to describe our 2020 class of honorees for the 40 Under 40 distinction. Like those who have been honored before them, they represent some of the finest, highest quality individuals comprising the woodworking industry in North America. We are thrilled to share a celebration of these inductees with you…even if it had to be a virtual celebration this year. And we look forward to a time when we can greet them in person and welcome them into the fold of this exclusive group," said Tim Fixmer, CEO of CCI Media, the parent of Woodworking Network.

The 40 Under 40 Class of 2020 is sponsored by Timber Products Co. and Hexagon Production Software: Cabinet Vision and Alphacam.

"We're very proud to co-sponsor this year's class of 40 Under 40," said Kassandra Stout, marketing associate for Timber Products. "At Timber, we understand the importance of celebrating innovative thoughts and actions within our industry, so thank you to the Woodworking Network for continuing with this recognition for the fifth year in a row, and congratulations to this year's honorees for their many, many achievements.

"Each of you serves as an inspiration for not only the current members of this industry but also those who are in the early stages of their careers, who are joining us," she said. "Our industry is very fortunate to have you – keep up the great work and we wish you all the best in the future."

"Congratulations to each one of you – this is a very big honor for the industry," added Paul Losavio, Americas manager for Hexagon. "We're a proud sponsor because of all the things that the 40 Under 40 program and the Woodworking Network does for the continuation of professional development in the industry."

Addressing the 2020 class, Losavio, also a 40 Under 40 alum, added, "I want to encourage all of you to continue your leadership development. It's a great industry to be in, and you guys are a shining example of the young and fresh and new ideas that can come to manufacturing. From all of us at Hexagon, congratulations to you all. It's very well deserved and I look forward to seeing all the great things you do with your careers."

Announced in June, the 2020 honorees were selected from an estimated 120 individuals nominations and more than 140 submissions overall. An engraved plaque, provided by Epilog Laser, is being sent to this year's honorees, along with a commemorative pin. More information on the 40 Under 40 can be found online at WoodworkingNetwork.com/40-under-40, and in the October issue of FDMC magazine.

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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]