In June, LBM Journal introduced its 40 Under 40 awards. Now we’d like to introduce you to the members of the class. Our interviews spotlight the 40 Under 40 members’ LBM experience, thoughts on attracting young people to the industry, and visions for the future.
Mark Blickenstaff, General Manager for Moore Lumber & Hardware
How did you become involved in the LBM industry?
Born and raised amidst the rhythmic hum of sawmills in a quintessential Idaho mill town, the LBM industry was practically in my blood. Witnessing its vital role in our community and the nation ignited a curiosity that blossomed into a lifelong passion. Though I briefly detoured into timber conservation, battling wildfires across the state, the pull of the industry proved irresistible. I found myself at the University of Idaho, initially pursuing a broad forestry degree. But while conservation’s importance remained, the allure of understanding the very materials shaping our world drew me to the Forest Products program.
Eager to turn theory into practice, I juggled classes with a seasonal gig at a local home center in 2003. From stacking lumber like a seasoned pro to mastering the intricacies of insulation installation and drywall handling, I learned every facet of the retail side. This hands-on immersion honed my skills and fueled my ambition, eventually propelling me into the dynamic world of pro sales, where I could directly contribute to the industry I’d grown up idolizing.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I wake up daily looking forward to teaming up with brilliant builders to turn raw lumber and intricate blueprints into havens for families. There’s an unmatched satisfaction in seeing those “simple sticks” transform into stunning custom kitchens, cozy living spaces, and bedrooms where dreams take root. I’ll never forget the tears in a young couple’s eyes when they first walked into their completed home, built to perfection thanks to our collaborative spirit. It’s more than just brick and mortar; it’s about creating living legacies, and that’s a privilege I cherish every day.
What advice would you give to companies looking to attract young professionals like yourself?
We want to learn from the best. We want to carry on the legacy. We want the industry to be left in our capable hands. Train us, teach us, mentor us. We’re driven to succeed and have your company’s success at the root of our actions.
What is your personal mission statement?
Live each day to be a change maker. A change maker that is rooted in integrity with constant focus on improvement.
