Sponsored by PLM
Attracting, hiring, and retaining talented young pros is consistently one of the top challenges reported by LBM dealers and distributors. That’s exactly why we created the LBM 40 Under 40—to recognize and celebrate the growing class of strong young leaders in the LBM community.
Inductees to the Class of 2025 are neither “rising stars” or “future leaders.” Instead, they’ve paid their dues and have put in the work necessary to establish themselves as leaders in their companies, and their communities.
From growing up in the industry to joining later in their careers, this year’s class comes from a variety of backgrounds and positions at organizations across the U.S. Many of them are leaders in their respective companies, and we’ve asked them to share not only their goals for the future, but their advice for the next generation of LBM employees.
Inductees from this year’s list have all been invited to attend and be recognized at this year’s LBM Strategies Conference, to be held October 15-17, 2025 in Nashville, TN. For more information on the conference, visit lbmstrategies.com.
For now, we’re excited to celebrate and present, in no particular order, the 2025 LBM 40 Under 40 inductees.
Sadie Hammond Berube
Director of Organizational Development
Hammond Lumber Company
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Continuing to grow within the business and learning from all aspects of our operations. Being part of a family-owned business, I have the opportunity to work alongside my dad, grandfather, and sister. Their experience and leadership inspire me to grow and contribute to the company’s continued success in my own way, while honoring the legacy they’ve built.
Advice for the next generation: Surround yourself with people and mentors who challenge, support, and inspire you. Work hard, never be afraid to ask questions, and take advantage of every opportunity to gain experience. Enjoy the process—success comes with time, dedication, and passion for what you do.
Fun fact: I played tennis at the University of Tennessee and achieved All-American honors my senior year. I am also currently earning my MBA online from UT. In August, I’ll officially be a Vol for Life x2!
Bowen Chapman
Vice President
Four Corners Building Supply
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing to drive growth and innovation, whether by scaling existing ventures or launching new initiatives. I aim to take on larger leadership roles, mentor emerging talent, and expand my impact within the business community. I also hope to stay engaged in leadership development and community initiatives, building on the experiences and relationships I’ve cultivated.
Advice for the next generation: Learn the business from the ground up. Build relationships and seek out other industry leaders or people you look up to. Embrace change and commit to innovation and technology.
Fun fact: I can barefoot water ski.
Justin Bigham
Purchasing & Pricing Manager
HT Building Products
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing to grow in the industry professionally and personally. Ideally in a role that is vital to growth and excellence within HT Lumber. My goal is to have a large group of other team members focused on learning, serving our customers, and improving each other’s lives through our careers. I hope to find more industry opportunities through charities, boards, and associations that are aimed at helping in our industry. Lastly, I aspire to impact people’s lives and careers in the same positive way that so many others in this industry have done for me.
Advice for the next generation: LBM as an industry is so much more than sales and deliveries. There is a pride that comes with helping people build their dream homes, or driving down the road being able to remember you and your company’s hand in building them. This is an industry that will never fade away and can continue to bring new challenges. If you want continuous growth and opportunity, then LBM is a great place to spend a career.
Fun fact: I have a wonderful and large, young family. I am a father and husband to two beautiful girls and an amazing wife, while also being the oldest of six brothers and sisters. Close family get-togethers can easily hit 20+ people. Things are always fun and crazy, but it is something I value immensely.
Jon Fletcher
National Sales Manager
Advantage Lumber LLC
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself actively driving the growth of Advantage Lumber, steering the company in the right direction to stay ahead of industry trends and meet evolving market demands. My goal is to ensure the long-term success and stability of the organization while fostering an environment that supports not only my family’s well-being but also the prosperity and satisfaction of my coworkers.
Advice for the next generation: My advice for anyone entering the LBM industry is to stay focused and committed. While this industry is far from easy, the relationships you build with coworkers and clients are invaluable and often last a lifetime. Though it can be highly competitive, it is also driven by passion and a shared dedication to excellence. Success in this field requires hard work, adaptability, and a willingness to evolve with the market. If you bring these qualities to the table, you’ll find not only professional success but also deep personal fulfillment.
Fun fact: I am passionate about youth sports. I have the privilege of coaching multiple age groups in both travel and recreational baseball and softball. It is incredibly fulfilling to help children, including my own, discover that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to improvement, their goals are within reach.
Ashley Guest
Marketing Manager
Harbin Lumber Company Inc.
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I want to continue to grow Harbin’s marketing department and have it integrated in every aspect of our business. We’re all contributing to the same mission for Harbin’s benefit as well as our impact on the communities we serve. I also want to be in the position to “pay it forward” for others, to help others within Harbin as well as our industry improve, to share ideas, and collaborate.
Advice for the next generation: Be willing to take on tasks and responsibilities that are either outside of your comfort zone or outside the scope of your job description. The more tasks that you are able to perform, the more valuable it makes you to the organization. The second thing I would advise is to embrace that the LBM industry is one ultimately of relationships. Develop, maintain, and protect positive relationships. The third thing I would suggest is to have a “servant’s heart.” I believe that we exist to serve others, no matter what it is we do in our career.
Fun Fact: I was a Tiger Twirler for Clemson University during 2015-2019 seasons. During this time, I was able to travel and perform at four ACC championships, three national championships and received two national championship rings. GO TIGERS!
Zac Page
Regional Sales Manager – Residential
Simpson Strong-Tie
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing in sales leadership and elevating my position within Simpson Strong-Tie along with continued growth and leadership within the industry. I aim to not only grow myself as a leader but mentor and help develop the next generation of leaders within our industry that will help carry us all into the future.
Advice for the next generation: My advice would be to find a mentor that is truly invested in your growth and cares about you. This industry is an amazing network and having a mentor that can help you connect the dots, walk through good and hard times and help build your knowledge will open you up to endless opportunities for growth, connection and meaning in your career with the LBM industry.
Fun fact: I’m married with two amazing kids and we love spending time outdoors in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, but before I lived out west I was born and raised in Ohio. I love all sports but have a strong passion for football which I was lucky enough to play in college at Grove City College in Pennsylvania. Now I’m just a big fan of the Steelers and my Ohio State Buckeyes!
Victoria Zimmerman
HR Director & Senior Management Team Member
Shepley Wood Products
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I hope to be in a role that continues to challenge and engage me and has true impact. Hopefully, that is still on the Shepley leadership team! I greatly enjoy finding ways to help the business and employees be even more successful and working to create an ongoing vision for the future that people can be inspired by and proud of.
Advice for the next generation: Ask questions and be open to the unexpected. You can always learn from the people around you so ask the questions and in turn be willing to teach. Additionally, sometimes your career takes you in a surprising direction. As you grow your professional self, you learn more about what you are good at and what you enjoy. Look for your opportunities and remain open to the ones you don’t anticipate.
Fun fact: I lived in London for ten years with my family (ages 1-11). I learned to speak there and had a strong English accent. Unfortunately, it has disappeared since being back in the States.
Mike Unwin
Store & Purchasing Manager
Hamilton Building Supply
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Being fairly new to the industry as a whole, the sky is the limit! I see myself in five years being right here at Hamilton Building Supply. My goal is to help our company continue to grow and have as much success as possible. Every day I learn something new, and I am excited to take on anything that is thrown my way.
Advice for the next generation: College is not for everyone, and this is something I know from personal experience. The LBM industry is a great place to start a career. If you are willing to put in the effort, your success will be extremely rewarding. Don’t be afraid to take chances and make yourself uncomfortable.
Fun fact: I am a huge fan of the Green Bay Packers, New Jersey Devils, and Oregon Ducks! In my free time I enjoy playing pool and cornhole with friends.
Makinsie Evans
Director of Operations
NORTHERN OHIO LUMBER & TIMBER
Where do you see yourself in five years:
As a 160-year-old company, NORTHERN OHIO LUMBER & TIMBER must continue evolving to stay ahead, and I’m excited to be part of leading that transformation. I see myself still here, contributing to that growth. While we are an LBM company with three divisions, our thermally modified wood lines—particularly in parks and outdoor spaces—have seen explosive growth in recent years. That work is especially fulfilling for me because it aligns with my passion for sustainable and durable building materials.
Advice for the next generation: Young people entering the LBM industry may be intimidated by its rich history and dedication to tradition. I challenge young people to first become students of the industry: learn by doing, seek mentorship, and absorb as much as possible. Once that foundation is in place, dare to lead in new ways. I’ve found the most satisfaction in navigating transitions from the old to the new, trudging through the mud, knowing that my hustle and hard work will pay off if I stay disciplined. Forming new paths leads to more fulfilling and profitable results.
Fun fact: I’ve been a musician and singer my whole life, growing up in a musical family. We love playing bluegrass and folk music together whenever we gather.
John Simpson
General Manager
Builders FirstSource
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself continuing to effectively lead sales and operations teams within our company, helping them to adapt and thrive in our dynamic industry and grow our business in Connecticut, and beyond.
Advice for the next generation: Our industry is a great one, and there are countless opportunities within it for people with a wide variety of skillsets and interests. My advice for younger folks, especially those looking to lead others, is to learn as much as you can by getting your hands dirty. Words of wisdom from more experienced peers undoubtedly have their value, but without getting out there and learning the ropes firsthand, it’s hard to develop a healthy respect for what it takes to get everyone’s job done. Ask questions, lend a hand (even when it’s not asked of you), and push yourself to work harder every day.
Fun fact: My family is my life. When I’m not working, I’m almost always spending time with my wife, three-year-old daughter, and our black lab Georgie. My daughter is obsessed with trucks and construction equipment, so she thinks it’s pretty cool to have a dad that knows his way around machinery!
Ryan Sparta
Kitchen and Bath Team Lead & Millwork Trader
LBM Advantage
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself still at LBM Advantage. I will still be involved with NYLE, MHLDA, and the other organizations I work with. I want to be even more involved with helping to foster in the next generation.
Advice for the next generation: This is something that I am very passionate about. I have spoken on a panel at the NRLA LBM Expo to high school students about this very topic. The best advice I can give someone that is considering the LBM industry as a career option is that if you decide to do it then really do it. I keep a postcard on my desk that says, “Lick the stamp and send it.” It’s a quote by F1 racer Daniel Riccardo. It means that when you do something you go all in, no looking back. You will get everything out of this industry that you put into it.
Fun fact: This piggy backs off the previous question. After about a year of being in the industry I got a tattoo of a tree to remind me that’s where this whole industry started. So when I say, “Lick the stamp and send it,” and go all in, I mean it.
Brandon Gower
Southpoint Millwork Plant Manager
Wilson Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Continuing to grow within Wilson Lumber Company as our Director of Millwork Operations and helping our Millwork Division hit our three-year goal of $75 million in revenue while leading a team of 150 production, warehouse, and delivery personnel.
Advice for the next generation: Keep an open mind and explore the endless avenues that the building material industry has to offer. There are many different opportunities and career paths for young individuals to make long-standing careers out of. The industry provides opportunities for individual growth, to be a part of a team, and to have an impact on people’s life through the materials we produce.
Fun fact: I played collegiate baseball for the University of Alabama in Huntsville. I’m certified by the University of Tennessee Beef and Forage Center in Artificial Insemination and Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program.
Megan Sumner
Outside Sales Representative
San Antonio Lumber Company
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing to lead and grow San Antonio Lumber as a thriving business that remains a cornerstone to our community.
I see myself mentoring my team to achieve both mine and their goals, while fostering trust and a culture of excellence.
Advice for the next generation: Take your time to learn the materials you are selling. I do not claim to know everything but I do strive to find the answers for my customers. Be honest, customers appreciate honesty and when you earn their trust they will be forever customers.
Fun fact: I live on a farm with small goats, a pig, chickens, a cat, dogs, and occasional turtles that my children find.
Chris Stevenson
Operations Manager
Building Center Stores
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing to help grow the company and taking on more responsibilities, expanding community outreach.
Advice for the next generation: Ask so many questions, learn everything you can. There are so many opportunities within the industry, there is no limit to your career path. From management, drivers, sales and marketing, financials, the industry is diverse. The one thing you need is drive.
Fun fact: I have two dogs named Leo and Lily that will be ring bearers in my upcoming wedding.
Andrew Quadrini
Building Materials Manager
Wilson Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself in an executive position at Wilson Lumber, continuing to lead the LBM division with a focus on innovation and growth. I aim to play a key role in expanding our reach and developing new strategies that drive operational efficiency and community impact. My goal is to help shape the future of Wilson Lumber by fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence while ensuring that we continue to positively impact the communities we serve.
Advice for the next generation: My advice for young people considering their career options is to stay open to opportunities that come your way. When I first started, I never imagined working in the LBM industry, but now I find the work incredibly fulfilling. This industry has not only provided me with a meaningful career but also created a great life for me and my family. Helping people build or renovate their homes, and contributing to making their dreams come true, is truly rewarding. Sometimes, the right opportunity might not be the one you first expected, so keep an open mind and embrace new possibilities.
Fun fact: I have traveled to a foreign country to spectate an international e-sports tournament for a slightly obscure video game called DOTA 2.
Chantel Jacobo
Director of HR
Ashby Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I hope to continue to grow as an HR professional within the LBM industry. I hope to take on more strategic responsibilities that contribute to building strong, engaged teams, and optimizing HR processes to support business growth.
Advice for the next generation: Here are a few things to keep in mind featuring “The Ashby Way”: 1. Put the customer first. Whether you’re in HR, sales, or operations, making the customer the center of everything you do will set you apart. 2. Follow through and take ownership. If you make a commitment, honor it. If challenges arise, be proactive in finding solutions. 3. Seek continuous improvement. Be open to feedback, challenge yourself, and aim to be better today than you were yesterday. 4. Enjoy the journey. This industry is built on relationships, teamwork, and hard work, but there’s also space for joy, celebration, and personal fulfillment. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll find a career that is both meaningful and rewarding.
Fun fact: In my spare time, I love to cook and experiment with new latte creations. As a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, I’m always on the hunt for unique coffee beans to perfect my espresso game!
Anthony Stephan
Huntsville Millwork Manager
Wilson Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself continuing to grow with Wilson Lumber, contributing to its success through innovation and new opportunities. I hope to take on higher challenges as the company expands. If I remain in my current role, I plan to manufacture insulated glass in-house, expand color options for our products, and introduce new window styles to our lineup.
Advice for the next generation: Never stop challenging yourself to grow. Learn what you don’t know and pursue what you want with determination. You are the only person who can push yourself to new limits, and you’ll find success as long as you keep striving and refuse to give up.
Fun fact: I’ve never grown out of my childhood love for Lego. Now, as an adult with children who share that passion, I’ve created a Lego city in my home, complete with buildings and working lights. The collection has even spilled over into my office because I ran out of space at home. It seems I enjoy building homes both at work and in my free time!
James Strattman
Branch Manager
Your Building Centers
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In the next five years, I see myself furthering my career with Your Building Centers. This company has provided me with many opportunities in just the short time I have been here. I want to continue to mentor my team, allow myself to grow personally and professionally, and contribute to the success of Your Building Centers.
Advice for the next generation: One piece of advice I would give is that nothing in life is given, it is earned. I truly believe if you work hard and put effort into your career, the sky is the limit. There are many different avenues to explore in the building industry and it is OK to look outside of your comfort zone. There is always something new to learn.
Fun fact: The building industry was not my main interest when I was growing up. In high school I wanted to pursue a career in culinary. Both of my parents had careers in the industry and they played a major role in my decision to pursue this path of work.
Beau Howard
Owner/Operations Manager
Howard Lumber and Hardware
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Still very involved in our day-to-day business. Helping our company grow and offer our customers the best service possible. We have been very blessed with what we have, and I plan to continue growing what God has given us. We have done a good job of hiring young people and plan for the future of our company. Hopefully, we will have another successful Greenfield operation within five years as well.
Advice for the next generation: Learn as much as you can from others that have been in the business for a while. You will never know everything, but surrounding yourself with people better and smarter than you is the best way to be successful. Build a good team that shares the same goals and values as you.
Fun fact: I was blessed with a beautiful red headed girl in 2023, and we are expecting another child in September 2025!
Mike Leginski
Location Leader
Preston Feather Building Centers
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Continuing to grow my career in the LBM industry.
Advice for the next generation: Don’t overlook this industry! There are so many different career paths that you can follow and no shortage of people willing to pass on their knowledge to you. Whether you’re a college graduate or someone who wants to enter the workforce right out of high school, you can build a great career and earn a lot of money in this business with or without a degree.
Fun fact: I love the outdoors and enjoying all that Northern Michigan has to offer with my family.
Ryan Ayers
Co-Founder & CEO
Suppli
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself continuing to lead Suppli as a key technology partner for the LBM industry. My goal is to expand our platform’s reach where we become a full financial operating system for dealers—from customer onboarding and underwriting to A/R and payments, A/P and rebate management, off-balance sheet trade credit, customer loyalty and more. Beyond Suppli, I hope to continue being an active advocate for industry innovation, working closely with the next generation of LBM businesses to shape the future of technology adoption in this space.
Advice for the next generation: For those considering a career in LBM, my advice is simple: don’t underestimate the impact you can make. This industry is built on relationships, trust, and deep expertise but it’s also in need of modernization. By embracing technology, streamlining outdated processes, and thinking critically about how to improve efficiency, young professionals have the chance to shape the future of
LBM in a meaningful way. Whether you’re in sales, operations, or finance/credit, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
Fun fact: Prior to launching Suppli, my co-founder and I spent a year running our own small lumber and drywall supply business in Texas.
Tyler McFadden
Purchaser
Ivey’s Building Materials
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I believe this industry’s best days are still ahead of it. With rapid technological advancements and the ever-growing demand for housing, we’re poised for a period of dynamic growth and innovation. While I can’t say for certain if I’ll still be in an operations role, I foresee myself involved in the LBM business in some capacity. Maybe I’ll take on a more strategic role within the LBM sector. I’m very interested in how artificial intelligence can automate and handle nearly all data-related tasks. I think we’re very close in seeing that become a reality.
Advice for the next generation: For any career, I’d recommend finding something you’re deeply fascinated with. Your passion will naturally drive you to invest more time and energy, which can lead to developing a real competitive edge. When you enjoy what you do and find success in it, your knowledge and value to an organization grow exponentially.
It’s a win-win situation—you’ll be both fulfilled and highly sought-after in your field.
Fun fact: I like to wind down in the evenings by playing heavy metal on guitar.
Candice Huston
Operations Manager
Calaveras & Sonora Lumber (Nation’s Best)
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Within the next five years I would like to be helping additional stores in their daily operations. I also plan to continue to expand my knowledge in the industry and seek out opportunities to grow my career.
Advice for the next generation: It may not be a glamorous career path but an LBM career is one that will exist through any economy. It gives the opportunity to learn home improvement life skills and build a career at the same time. Find someone in this industry and pick their brain for their experience and knowledge; it will be invaluable. Always work at the level of the job you want, even if you don’t have it yet, and strive to achieve any goals you continually set for yourself.
Fun fact: I had no intention in making a career out of working at a lumberyard and hardware store. The family-run, small town feeling is something that you can’t help but fall in love with and I have been here ever since.
Faren Harding
Sales Training & Support Specialist
Bliffert Lumber & Design
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself as a key leader in sales training and development, helping to shape a high-performing team and driving business growth. I aim to continue expanding my expertise in the building industry, mentoring others, and making a meaningful impact through education and strategic support.
Advice for the next generation: Whatever task is at hand, always give it your full effort. I never envisioned a career in the building industry, but since joining I’ve experienced tremendous growth. No matter where you start, the opportunities are endless. Approach each day with a positive attitude, be open to learning, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Lots of questions! The building industry is filled with knowledgeable and supportive professionals eager to help you succeed.
Fun fact: I was born and raised in an outdoor-loving family. My favorite hobbies include deer hunting, fishing, and sturgeon spearing. I also have a passion for fitness and running.
Scott Nicholson
General Manager/COO
Dakota County Lumber Co.
Where do you see yourself in five years:
If I am lucky enough, to still be working at Dakota County Lumber for Sunny Bowman. We have some lofty goals that we want to accomplish so hopefully we have multiple locations and have doubled in revenue and people.
Advice for the next generation: This industry is special because there are so many examples of people working their way up from a forklift driver, a truck driver, working the city desk or whatever entry level type job to becoming the Operations Manager, Sales Manager, CEO, etc. There is so much opportunity to have an amazing career with awesome earning potential. You just need to be willing to work hard, have a great attitude and learn as much as you can.
Fun fact: I have three children under five years old. I grew up playing hockey and still play goalie in a beer league with a bunch of buddies from high school. I know a lot of useless information that has not helped my career at all.
Christopher Urso
Store Manager
Arnold Lumber Company
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself developing great people, helping customers meet their goals, being a part of the growth of Arnold Lumber Company, and continuing a legacy of delivering excellence and investing in the future while giving back to the community. Nothing is more exciting than seeing a long runway ahead and knowing you’re going to be along for the ride!
Advice for the next generation: Always find a way to say, “Yes!” Whether it be a customer asking for something crazy, a superior asking for you to learn a new skill or process, or just trying a new flavor of coffee. The more you know, the more valuable you are, and the only way to start learning is to say yes. Keep doing the most, and don’t stop improving. Once you stop or slow down, it is that much harder to start back up again; keep going!
Fun fact: If I am not counting strokes on the golf course, I will likely be at the beach or trying new things with my growing family.
Luke Lightfoot
Regional Manager
Orange County Building Materials
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself making a step forward into vice president in the next five years, managing most of all day-to-day operations.
Advice for the next generation: The people in this industry are different, all in good ways. That in itself can drive such a value to a career and enjoying what you do every day. My personal advice would be to focus on forward momentum.
Fun fact: I believe I have a unique passion for what I do. Orange County Building Materials is my family’s company, as a young child my dad would take the family on business trips. I was the kid that would rather go to a show or expo than an amusement park. It’s led to quite a bit of “absorption” by proximity.
Emily Feirick
Outside Sales Coordinator
Big C Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself raising my two girls while continuing to build my career in the lumber industry. There will be a lot of opportunities available at Big C in the near future, so I am excited to see what I will be able to accomplish.
Advice for the next generation: Take advantage of moving around within your company while learning from everyone around you. Have goals but be flexible because you never know what role you might end up thriving in. Focus on building as many relationships as you can and help build a great culture with everyone around you.
Fun fact: I love skydiving. There is nothing more thrilling than jumping out of a plane at 14,000 feet.
Matt Rayol
Founder
Brazawood LLC
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Enjoying life with family, making sure that we’ve created something special for the world. And for sure, following my passion for creating and materializing.
Advice for the next generation: Focus on the cause that you’re defending, not on the profit that it could or could not generate. BE A PROBLEM SOLVER; eventually you will also solve the “money problem.”
Fun fact: I can’t pronounce the ‘TH’ in English. I used to participate in rhyme battles in Brazil, and I still rhyme today (in Portuguese). I’m trying my best to train my brain to rhyme in English too, but most of my rhymes in English are very silly.
Chris Routhe
VP of Operations
Millard Lumber Inc.
Where do you see yourself in five years:
For my 15th birthday my gift was a ride to work at Millard Lumber. I’ve never had another job. After 22 years, I’ve made my way from pricing updates data entry to the executive leadership team. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to build a career with a family-owned business in its third generation of leadership. In five years, I plan on leading the next generation of Millard Lumber leadership with a handful of like-minded professionals, pushing Millard Lumber into the future.
Advice for the next generation: My college degree is in economics and finance. I never expected at that time that I would continue at the lumberyard and in the housing industry. My advice: don’t convince yourself you have the rest of your life figured out in your twenties. Work hard. Working in the LBM industry is a fulfilling profession. The LBM industry is a part of the American dream: homeownership.
Fun fact: My side hobby is being involved in politics. In 2020 our vice president of sales was looking to retire but needed a new hobby to keep busy. I convinced him to run for Omaha City Council. He agreed to it with the stipulation that I would be his campaign manager. He won by beating out six other opponents in that race and is running for re-election in spring of 2025.
Danny Moe
Sales Manager
IWP
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I see myself as a seasoned sales professional with a deep understanding of both my industry and clients’ needs. I envision being in a leadership position, guiding, and mentoring a team to success while continuing to drive results and build lasting client relationships. My goal is to not only achieve personal milestones but also help my team and company reach new heights.
Advice for the next generation: Don’t overlook the building industry. While it’s not the “sexiest” industry to start in, there is so much long-term potential and diverse opportunities available. I’d encourage them to gain hands-on experience, whether through internships or entry-level positions, to truly understand the business from the ground up. Also, never stop learning, whether it’s about new trends in the industry or sharpening soft skills like customer service and negotiation.
Fun fact: My father was a pilot in the Navy, and his squadron was picked to fly the jets in all of the action scenes in the original Top Gun. My father was in charge of all navigation and weapons, so every time you saw Maverick and Goose flying in those action scenes, it was Rick “Curly” Moe making Goose look good … until the ejection scene.
Amy Wallace
Credit Manager
Wallace Building Center
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Hopefully still in my position, heading up the credit department over multiple locations. It is mine and my husband’s dream to open multiple locations. In five years, I hope we are working on number two.
Advice for the next generation: I think I would tell the younger generation that it’s OK not to know exactly what you want to do after college or high school. Look at me—I started out teaching and wound up being a credit manager.
Fun fact: Something that is a little different about me is that my husband and I have two children and we actually built an office for them right beside our office. We bring our children with us to work pretty much every day. Even though it is not always the most professional setting, I love getting to spend more time with my family while also getting to chase my professional dreams.
Austin Huskey
CEO
Huskey Building Supply
Where do you see yourself in five years:
Continuing to grow my team at Huskey, expanding into new markets, but always making long term decisions that create sustainability for generations to come.
Advice for the next generation: There is a world of opportunity in our industry. It is really fun and fulfilling to be a part of, hands on producing and creating the future for our communities.
Fun fact: My wife and I met playing worship music at church and still get to do that together today.
Chris Hansen
Software Application Manager
OrePac Building Products
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself as the director of IT, leading transformative change across our organization. My focus will be on driving strategic initiatives that foster business growth, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure robust security. I aim to build a forward-thinking IT department that aligns technology with our business goals, empowering our teams to excel and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Advice for the next generation: My advice for young people considering a career in the LBM industry is to be a sponge—learn as much as you can from those with years of experience in the field. Build relationships with seasoned professionals, ask plenty of questions, and stay curious. This industry offers incredible opportunities to grow and make an impact, but success comes from a willingness to learn, adapt, and continuously seek new knowledge.
Fun fact: I love traveling the world in search of exciting new places to surf and discovering delicious local cuisines along the way. For me, it’s all about the thrill of the waves and the joy of exploring different cultures through their food!
Rachel Larson
Director of Change Management
Empire Building Materials
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I hope to continue to move up in the building materials world while digitally transforming our space, focusing on continuous improvement, and finding pathways for bringing on a younger generation into an industry that is rapidly aging.
Advice for the next generation: The world of building materials has numerous different career paths from sales to warehouse management to IT and technology roles to finance. Don’t be afraid to take an entry level position that might not be exactly what you want, this industry has a reputation for promoting from within. Be open to new experiences, say yes to opportunities that come your way, and document the knowledge that is shared with you.
Fun fact: I grew up going on the road with my truck driver dad and had visited 45 states by the time I graduated high school. I added my 46th state as an adult but I still have four to go. Any guesses on what those four are?
Stokely Wischmeier
President
Hopson Lumber Company
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In the next five years, we hope to expand to a third location and continue growing the Hopson Lumber Company brand and commitment.
Advice for the next generation: Young people have the opportunity to join a dynamic and rewarding industry filled with challenges, growth, and unlimited potential. The LBM industry is incredibly diverse and full of countless career paths. Whether you’re interested in supply chain management, sales, technology, or other areas, the possibilities for advancement and success are endless.
Fun fact: I enjoy woodworking and spending time with my wife and two young children.
Adam Dodge
Assistant General Manager
Ward Lumber
Where do you see yourself in five years:
At Ward Lumber. Continuing to grow the team’s capacity and capability, while pursuing our vision and supporting my family and community.
Advice for the next generation: New perspectives are welcome in the LBM world.
We change with the times. You never know where your talents
may take you.
Fun fact: I have four children under four.
Abeer Saeed
Merchandise Manager, Millwork & Interior Solutions
Do it Best
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I hope to grow as a leader, never stop learning, and expand my team’s success. I’m committed to driving change, strengthening my department and community, and setting the best example for my daughter while helping others advance alongside me.
Advice for the next generation: It’s important to stay curious, be bold, and embrace continuous learning. The LBM industry thrives on innovation, so seek mentors, ask questions, and speak up even with unconventional ideas. Lead with positivity and resilience, and opportunities will follow.
Fun fact: I speak five languages!
Cody Wallace
COO
Wallace Building Center
Where do you see yourself in five years:
In five years, I see myself as having opened up a second location, and possibly even seeking out a third.
Advice for the next generation: My advice would be, don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance. This industry can be a tough one to get into, but if you lean on people around you and dig in, you can be successful.
Fun fact: A fun fact about me is that my kids come to work with my wife and I every day. We didn’t want to have to decide between family and career and found a way to have both.
Turner Moore
Owner
Spratlin Building Supply
Where do you see yourself in five years:
I hope to have advanced the store to incorporate both farm and home departments and continue to grow in the product offerings available for our customers and community.
Advice for the next generation: If you are unsure what profession or field to pursue …choose a skill to achieve. The skill market is in high demand.
Fun fact: I love to quail hunt.
Looking to the future
Not surprisingly, we received far more nominees than we could recognize in the 2025 LBM 40 Under 40. It’s why each year we’ll welcome an entirely new group of professionals to our list of inductees. If your name (or the name of an associate you nominated) wasn’t included this year, we encourage you to re-nominate again next year. Thank you for joining us in recognizing and celebrating the young pros who are driving our community forward.
