Amy palma

HR Business Partner

What was your line of service, and how did those skills transfer to your career now?
I began my career in the United States Air Force in 1995, later transitioning to the Air National Guard as a Communications Specialist. In this role, I was responsible for establishing and restoring communication infrastructures, enabling global connectivity under demanding conditions. My military service instilled in me core values and essential skills such as teamwork, accountability, creative problem-solving, and leadership.

These skills have translated seamlessly into my current role as a Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP), where I serve as a strategic liaison between HR and the business. I draw on my experience to navigate complex challenges, facilitate difficult conversations, and drive operational efficiency, all with a focus on helping the business grow and succeed.

What is a lesson or piece of advice you received during your time in service that still applies to you today?
One of my leaders shared a simple but powerful piece of advice: always follow up and follow through. Whether the task is easy or difficult, following up and following through builds trust. And the more people trust you, the better you function as a team. That principle applies to any career; we all need to work together to succeed.

What was your first job in your career/field?
My first job in Human Resources was as an HR Assistant at the corporate office of a chain restaurant. I found it fascinating to learn about the business strategies, how the company generated revenue, and how we worked to reduce overhead costs. I also began to appreciate how each location had its own culture, and how much leadership influenced that culture.

What has kept you in this industry/at your company/in your position?
I’ve been a Human Resources Business Partner for several years because I enjoy working with others toward a common goal. I value being part of the HR team and partnering closely with the business. Serving as the bridge between HR and the divisions I support allows me to make a meaningful impact, and that’s what keeps me engaged and motivated.

 Cody Lane

Continuous Improvement Manager, South Central Region.

What was your line of service? And how did those skills transfer to your career now?

I’ve served 12 years in the Oklahoma Army National Guard and am currently still serving as an Artillery High Mobility Rocket and Missile Crew Member. While the technical skills haven’t directly translated to my civilian role, the leadership and soft skills I’ve developed in the military have made a significant impact. I’ve held multiple leadership and management positions, and I credit much of my success to the discipline, flexibility, and strong work ethic instilled in me through military service.

What is a lesson or piece of advice that you received during your time in service that still applies to you today?

Always develop your soldiers. On the battlefield, it’s critical that your team knows how to step into your role if needed. I take mentoring seriously, because the ability to teach and grow those around you is a direct reflection of your leadership. When you take care of others, they’ll take care of you in return.

What’s the first thing you tell your team each day?

I’ve found that it’s not always about what you say to your team; it’s about how well you listen. Right now, I don’t have any direct reports at US LBM, but that mindset still guides how I interact with others.

What was your first job in your career/field?

I started as a production manager at a custom door shop and mill.

What’s the first thing you’d tell someone about your job/what you do?

As Continuous Improvement Manager for the South Central region, I guide teams through the tools and methodologies of process improvement. My goal is to empower each person I work with to eventually lead projects on their own, building an “army” of Continuous Improvement-minded associates across our operations.

What has kept you in this industry/at your company/in your position?

I love being part of one of the biggest decisions people make in their lives: creating their dream home. It’s rewarding to know we contribute to something so meaningful.

What’s the first thing that makes you smile at work each day?

Opening the SC production logs from our various Millwork locations and seeing the progress we’re making!

Drew Lewis

Director of Program Management.

What was your line of service? And how did those skills transfer to your career now? 

I was a Cavalry Scout in the Army. While that job is vastly different from my roles in IT and Project Management, I believe the most important skills that transferred were problem solving and decision making. Cavalry scouts often face complex situations requiring quick and effective decision-making. This ability is vital in IT and Project Management to navigate project challenges and make informed decisions.

What has kept you in this industry/at your company/position you’re in? 

The people I work with. I have been blessed with being part of amazing teams here at US LBM.  My current team of Project Managers and the BSS teams we work with on a daily basis have some of the highest performing individuals I have ever had the pleasure of working with.  What makes them even better, is that they LOVE to come together and work as a team

I have also had some phenomenal mentors here.  I have had a mentor that has been there for me since the day I started at Universal Supply Company back in 2013.  I know I can call him day or night for anything; having that kind of support goes a long way.  Another recent mentor has spent countless hours teaching me about the business, and is also always there if I have a question or problem I need help addressing.

Who was your first mentor and what did you learn from them?

My first mentor was Angelo Gadola, my platoon sergeant when I was deployed to Iraq in 2006/2007. He really showed me the importance of hard work and always being prepared. Angelo was dedicated and always had a plan, no matter what came our way. His lessons on resilience and strategic thinking have stuck with me ever since. These principles have helped me tackle both personal and professional challenges. 

Rich Laraway

Regional Safety Manager

What was your line of service, and how have those skills transferred to your career today?
I served as an Army Blackhawk Pilot and SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) Instructor. The skills transition to my current role seamlessly. My job has always been about identifying risks and avoiding them. In the military, that meant staying alive. Now, it means protecting our associates and the company. Safety is all about the details, and I’ve spent years focused on the ones that matter most.

What is a lesson or piece of advice from your service that still applies today?
Complacency kills, whether it’s in the field or on the job. Be intentional, be alert, and never take routine for granted.

Who was your first mentor, and what did you learn from them?
Dave “Duke” Garrity, who recruited me into the special operations community. He taught me that the human body can endure just about anything—as long as the mind stays motivated. That perspective has carried me through every challenge since.

What’s the first piece of professional advice that really stuck with you?
“In the absence of guidance, you have initiative, and that’s not always a good thing.” I started saying that early in my career. I’m sure someone said something like it first, but it stuck. It reminds me that while initiative is valuable, direction and discipline are just as important.

Andrew Hill

Location Manager, Forge Lumber

Tell us about your job.

I am the Location Manager for the Forge truss plant. We are a smaller truss plant in Northern Kentucky, producing floor and roof trusses.

How did you get into the industry?

Accidently! I was a 25-year-old millennial living in his parents’ basement, holding a history degree, without a clue what to do next. I ended up getting an Associate’ Degree in Drafting and Design. I got my foot in the door as an engineered wood products designer for KI Lumber before taking advantage of other opportunities they had available. 

What do you like most about your work?

I’m not stuck just doing one thing. It’s different every day; I can bounce between sales, production, design, continuous improvement, safety, and inventory, to name a few.

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company?

Formal education honed my critical thinking and communication skills and on-the-job experience helped me put those skills to practice. Going through Green Belt, Pulse, and other US LBM training programs has made me much more comfortable participating in and leading projects. Change has been the one constant in my career, but I have become more adaptable in navigating change, for example bringing the team up to speed and creating buy-in, which starts with buying in myself.  As a leader I think I am much more aware of what my team needs from me on a regular basis than I was just a few years ago.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

The culture at US LBM gives opportunities to those with aspirations looking to better oneself.  If you’re willing to take chances, volunteer for different projects, then opportunities will present themselves. 

What would you say makes the company unique?

US LBM has grown exponentially but I still feel like I’m in control at my local level. The decisions I make affect myself and the those around me so I’m motivated to do well for the team and to make us better.

What would you tell someone considering joining the building materials industry?

Show up on time, work harder than the person next to you, and volunteer for a project outside of your comfort zone. If you’re doing those things and learning, then the rest generally takes care of itself. 

What is it that excites you about working this industry?

The vertical mobility afforded me and to others that work hard and stick with it.  Nine years ago I was a yard associate putting I-Joist packages together in the lumber yard.  Now I’m a Location Manager. When talking to folks in our plant that are just starting out, I remind myself that this person might be who I was less than a decade ago – maybe they just need a chance.  I feel that if you work hard in this industry, you have control of your own destiny to a degree. 

Adan Arriaga

Market Safety Manager, US LBM

Tell us about your role.

I run day to day operations for production and warehouse, and work with employees to ensure delivery time and quality is met. I also work with our sales staff to quote custom millwork.

How did you get into the industry?

It began as a summer job while I was in school, working at a lumber yard over its busy summer season. I decided to stay in the industry because I saw and was given a lot of opportunity for growth. I started as a load builder and have done 90%+ of the different jobs that there are to do in this industry. From load building, CDL driver, running equipment in the mill shop, to my current position as Location Manager for our mill shop.

What do you like most about your work?

I have had the opportunity to go to the University of Wisconsin to earn my Yellow, Green, and Black belt (Six Sigma certifications). I am now able to streamline our operations and to work with other locations to make suggestions and help improve processes.

I get invited to go to different locations within US LBM to deliver White Belt training in Spanish. I get a lot of satisfaction from this because we are educating a group of people that might otherwise miss out on such an opportunity due to the language barrier (not on purpose, but it happens at times).

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

I have grown through coaching and mentoring others. I have significantly improved my public speaking skills, and acquired more confidence in decision-making. I have also improved my financial acumen and ability to look at financials and determine how to make good decisions. 

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

Dynamic, high energy, open, and encouraging. Your voice is heard and your opinion matters. If you are willing to put the idea out there and do the work, you are given the freedom to try. 

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

The opportunity for career growth, the focus on lean management, our people, and the support we are given from US LBM down to the division level.  The freedom our divisions have to operate in the way they feel is best based on the markets they are in. 

Barbie Elrod

Inside Sales Manager

Tell us about your role

I am the Inside Sales Manager for Brand Vaughan Lumber a division of USLBM. My team consists of 15 of the best Inside Sales rep’s in the industry. I oversee the daily operations in the inside sales department. Hiring and training are two huge responsibilities as well.

How did you get into the industry?

I was given the opportunity to join the residential building supply industry when a close friend on mine opened a lumber yard.

What do you like most about your work?

I enjoy the people.  I love talking and working with builders/customers internally and externally. One of the focuses at Brand Vaughan is to “build uncommon relationships with our team members”.  This really hits home with me. I value my team members and enjoy working with each and every one of them.

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

I was fortunate enough to attend the “Executive Leadership Program”.  The program consisted of individuals from all areas of the industry. I learned so much from my peers from a different point of view than what I see in sales. I also earned my yellow belt!

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

I feel like US LBM believes in its team members. The open-door policy is not just something they say, it is how they operate.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

The most unique thing I see with US LBM is that you are not just a number, you are person.

Brittany Napier

Category Manager

Tell us about your role.

I am the Window and Door Division Manager which encompasses everything from customer relations and problem solving to design, order management and inventory management.

How did you get into the industry?

I came into this industry by surprise! I was in the midst of a career change when a friend called to see if I was interested in assisting with window and door sales.  At the time, I was managing purchasing and sales at a locally owned beverage store with a side business making custom window treatments, bedding and reupholstering furniture so I came to his mind when the position presented itself.  One interview landed me the job and the rest is history!

What do you like most about your work?

Working with people is one of the highlights of my everyday routine.  We all know that there is no "dull moment" in this business and stress levels can reach max levels quickly.  Problem solving and being creative to present solutions in often difficult circumstances to reach the end goal is very much rewarding to me.  Customer satisfaction at the end of the job makes the process worth it every time!

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

Absolutely! US LBM has offered endless opportunities for leadership development and business growth. The involvement at the business level (behind the scenes) has opened my eyes to not only ways to capitalize on growing business, but also ways to control and manage circumstances that could damage and/or derail efforts at growing business. 

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

Involved, supportive, encouraging, innovative 

What would you say makes US LBM unique?
Diversity is what sets USLBM apart. Having so many different locations across the country presents opportunities to network, grow as a professional, and learn. All of which allows us to provide a better service to our customer base locally!

Heather Young

Senior Manager of Manufacturing

Tell us about your role.

I run the production team at Shelly’s Supply (a division of US LBM) and have had the honor of leading them in a very positive direction. When I began leading the team, I encouraged a completely new culture that in return created a cohesive team that has proven its strength and abilities by a major increase in productivity.  

How did you get into the industry?

I had a construction background through a family business and landed a job at a construction telecommunications company. I started at the bottom sweeping floors and was promoted several times to my last role as a warehouse manager. It never mattered what I was doing – I always wanted to do my best – but I became bored when there was no more opportunity for growth. I wanted to make a bigger difference and needed room to grow.

I started applying for jobs and landed a job as a Logistics Coordinator at Shelly’s. I instantly thrived on the challenges in front of me. Once I learned more about US LBM I was hooked and knew I was somewhere where I could reach my goals. From logistics Coordinator, I was later promoted to an Operations Manager and now my current role of running production.

What do you like most about your work?

I love the people. Every day I primarily focus on the associates to ensure they have all the tools they need to be successful. At the end of the day if you can keep your associates happy and engaged, that results in productivity. Building and maintaining a positive culture, process improvements and lean manufacturing while achieving operational excellence is always my top priority. I just love making a difference every day!

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

My professional growth has skyrocketed since I joined US LBM. Upon learning about US LBM’s values, including empowerment and continuous improvement, I knew I was in the right place. I attended US LBM University and was immediately motivated to share the experience with the team back at my location. From that point forward I was hooked, later moving on to get my Lean Six Sigma White Belt, Yellow Belt, and eventually my Green Belt in 2019.

As someone with big goals, I am grateful for this opportunity that has grown with my ambitions.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

The culture is extremely rewarding for a motivated person like myself. US LBM invests in its associates to help them reach their desired goals. We are also recognized for our achievements and success, which feels good. I personally couldn’t be prouder to be part of such an amazing organization and every day look forward to what opportunities lie ahead.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

US LBM’s uniqueness comes from all the different backgrounds coming together as one. Allowing each division to run independently while having the resources and support of the larger company to lean on as needed is certainly unique. I regularly use the power of US LBM to get to the bottom of any obstacles I’m faced with on a daily basis. I reach out to other divisions often, as there is a pretty good chance someone out there has faced similar obstacles and may have the answer you are looking for.

John Hill

General Manager at Hines

Tell us about your job. 

I work with a terrific group of coworkers. Together we build relationships with our customers, finding new ways to build sales and profitability. Each day is different but every day has the same goal: serving our customers and striving to be the best in our market.

How did you get into the industry?

The local lumberyard in my hometown was looking for a new manager. Although I had minimal building materials experience, I applied and they were crazy enough to give me a shot. Thankfully it worked out well and gave me the experience I needed to come over to Hines and take on my current role.

What do you like most about your work?

The opportunity to work with an amazing group of coworkers!

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company?

I’ve had the opportunity to get my Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification. With US LBM and Hines, I’ve been empowered as a manager and professional more than in any other job I’ve had. I’ve learned a lot about the financials and P&L processes.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

It’s a big company, but it feels much smaller as you get the opportunity to meet a lot of people in different roles and positions. People help each other out and seem to be focused on common goals. We are always challenged to reach higher.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

We’re a big company, but each division and location is allowed to have it’s own identity and make most of their own decisions. This allows us the flexibility to serve our individual markets in the best ways possible, without a lot of “one size fits all” solutions.

Josie Lien

Truss Technician, ABC Truss

Tell us about your job.

I design trusses. I get a finished plan, and it’s my job to come up with a truss layout (where to put each individual truss) and engineer every truss that goes into creating the floor and roof of a structure.  I configure each web of each truss, make sure it meets code, and make it as builder-friendly as possible.

How did you get into the industry?

I went to school for architectural drafting and design, as I’ve always had a fascination with buildings. We took a class tour to ABC Truss and I was very intrigued about all the detail that went into one building – even what you might think to be the most simple house. I then decided to do my internship here at ABC and four years later, I’m still here as a full-time employee!

What do you like most about your work?

I love how fast-paced my job is. I see one job for a few hours, and then it’s done and I move on to the next one. I also like being able to see the finished product. Seeing a finished home, condo, or apartment complex is super cool, knowing you had a part in making it happen! I also like the people I work with and our shared interest in construction and building design. 

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company?

Being a part of ABC Truss has improved my professional skills immensely. I’ve gotten better at communication in general (in person, email, and phone), problem solving, relaying information accurately, and prioritizing my daily tasks. This is my first “profession” out of college, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from a job like this. Now it’s just routine and second nature.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

The culture of US LBM is very friendly and “in-the-loop.” There’s always communication about what’s going on in the company. They don’t change something without you knowing.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

US LBM is constantly bettering itself. Efficiency is key. They are upgrading programs and improving settings to make sure we aren’t wasting time or other resources.

Matt Bartman

Lean Manufacturing Leader, US LBM

Tell us about your role.

I’m the Lean Manufacturing Leader for US LBM. My role is focused around supporting our manufacturing facilities in unlocking new levels of performance.

The major aspects of my role consist of helping foster a sustainable continuous improvement culture; sharing best practices; bringing people together to solve common challenges; designing and creating tools that aid manufacturing facilities in forecasting and decision making; and analyze data, processes and facility flow.

How did you get into the industry?

I started at Wisconsin Building Supply (one of our divisions) as a yard hand around 2013. Prior to that time I had the opportunity to be exposed to many different industries and was looking for something different. I started at WBS to try it out and little did I know that the industry would really draw me in!

What do you like most about your work?

There’s not enough space to list everything, but if I had to narrow it down to just three things, I’d say 1) Getting to help the manufacturing facilities of US LBM; their success is my goal. 2) Every day I learn something new and gain a better understanding of our industry overall. 3) I enjoy being able to be creative and find ways to improve systems and build cultures to make processes safer, easier and faster than ever before. I get excited every time we make an improvement – it’s very fulfilling!

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

Rewinding back to when I started at WBS, from helping me get my CDL to sending me to Yellow Belt and Green Belt in lean Six Sigma training, it was very empowering to have a company believe in me enough to invest in my growth. Then after I joined the US LBM team I was given the opportunity to get my Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma. I’ve also been able to attend US LBM University (one of our internal training opportunities), and Pulse (our leadership development program). All the training I have been given has directly translated into helping me better serve the divisions and grow professionally every year.

In addition to all the great training I’ve received, the one-on-one mentorship is second to none. I’ve had amazing support my entire time here.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

Supportive, open, daring, empowering, fast-paced.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

US LBM cares about its people and is willing to spend the time, effort, and resources to do what it can to take care of them. Where a company is willing to invest says a lot about its values and the quality of its leadership, and US LBM continues to provide industry leading education, mentorship, and coaching to its people.

People are the creative engines to an organization, and in a world where the most creative companies are the most successful, I feel we stand in a league of our own.

Molly Walsh

IT Project Manager, US LBM

Tell us about your role and a little of your background at US LBM.

I started with US LBM in 2017 as a Support Specialist on the IT Service Desk. I worked on the Service Desk for about three years until joining the Project Management team. As a Project Manager, I handled the implementation of technology for new locations and acquisitions. Since then, I have joined the IT Business Engagement team where my primary responsibility is to be a voice for our businesses and IT teams. We are here to improve IT performance, support and communication.

How did you get into the industry?

My dad started his own computer consulting business in the early 90's, so my interest in IT started at a young age. I realized I could make it a career, so when I found an opportunity on US LBM's Service Desk, I jumped on it. My management team took a gamble with hiring me, since I had little knowledge about IT, but I was super excited to learn and help out.

What do you like most about your work?

I think the most rewarding part of my job is having the opportunity to build relationships with our divisions and other team members. I enjoy feeling like I am making a difference in people's lives. I am able to use my skillset of translating "IT stuff" into a message that people can understand. I enjoy being an advocate for our divisions and for our IT teams.

 How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

I have grown a TON since starting with US LBM. I entered the company completely “green,” having no formal IT education and little experience. With the help of my teammates, I was able to learn so much about IT in general, in addition to the institutional knowledge about each of our divisions. The skills I learned through my positions at USLBM translate well into any job around the company.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

I would describe US LBM's culture as supportive. I have always been encouraged to take on new challenges, and without the support of my teammates, I wouldn't be where I am now.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

US LBM's diversity makes us unique. Each one of our divisions does something different than the next, yet we're able to come together as one and leverage our skills cross-divisionally to become a more powerful company.

Nate Shlisky

Area Truss Manager, Desert Truss

Tell us about your role.

I manage the design work load and design quality of all trusses at Desert Truss in Las Vegas.

How did you get into the industry?

By accident! I started at Desert Lumber in 2004 as the company’s runner. While I liked what I was doing, it came to a point where I needed to decide whether I was working a job or building a career. The president of the company gave me an opportunity to learn and grow within the ranks. I started out operating a fork lift, and progressed through the sales department, accounts payable, and credit.  Finally, Desert Lumber decided to open a truss manufacturing facility and I was recruited to join the truss team as designer. I took a liking to truss design, and became increasingly interested in “truss theory” -- there are hundreds of ways to reach an end goal, but there is a single design that is the most optimized and efficient. Continuously striving for this “optimized design” has brought me to where I am today.

What do you like most about your work?

Every day is a new adventure. Just when one thinks that they have “seen it all”, something new always arises to prove that statement wrong.

How have you developed professionally since you joined your company?

Over my career here, I have become much more confident in my abilities. Stepping into a managerial role has forced me to view many different perspectives and learn different leadership skills that have helped me grow both in my professional life as well as my personal life.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

US LBM’s culture is strongly geared toward continuous improvement. The company wants its employees to grow, improve, and excel at everything they do – and the tools for such growth are available to everyone. The sky is the limit for anyone with ambition willing to put forth the effort.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

Upon acquiring a new operating company (division), US LBM allows op cos that are successfully operating in their marketing to continue operations as they were. The corporate structure shows respect to the people and processes developed over time, but provides a drive to always get better. 

Patrick Wetzel

Outside Sales Representative, Hines

Tell us about your job.

My responsibilities include calling on new and existing customers to promote and sell our products and services. No two days on the job are ever the same.  You never know what to expect and that’s one of the aspects I enjoy most. Some days are spent in the field visiting customers at their office or jobsite and others are spent in the office working on blueprints, quotes, orders, etc.

How did you get into the industry?

I started working for Hines in high school because my dad was running a yard and they needed some part-time help. I worked out in the yard, learned a lot and swore I’d never be back to work in this industry. After graduating from college, I found myself back at Hines and have been here ever since.

What do you like most about your work?

I like the variety. I’m not stuck behind a desk all day, every day. I’m constantly interacting with customers and spending time in the field. Seeing projects from pre-construction through completion always provides opportunities to learn about our industry and products.

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company?

I started my professional career at Hines as an inside sales representative. Shortly after I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in US LBM’s leadership program, PULSE. This program allowed me to interact with other professionals across US LBM and gain experience I otherwise would not have been exposed to. I then moved to a project manager role where I worked with our VP of Sales on sales and marketing projects before moving into my current position as an outside sales representative.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

Even though US LBM’s operations are spread throughout the country, they do a great job of creating a small business feel. Each location has its own strengths and the sharing of best practices between divisions helps us all work toward the goal of continuous improvement to better serve our customers.  

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

The culture. For such a large organization with operations and employees in all parts of the country, it still feels like you’re working for a small, family-owned company.

Sarah Burriss

Implementation Lead, US LBM

Tell us about your role.

I started at GBS in 2012, doing a variety of roles from Counter Sales to DOT and Safety. In 2015 I joined the Logistics Team with US LBM, primarily working on Descartes (our route planning and optimizing software) rollouts throughout different divisions. In July of this year I became Implementation Lead for BisTrack (our business management software) implementations. 

How did you get into the industry?

While I was in college, I worked with my dad building a 900 square foot addition to the house I grew up in. Shortly after that I saw a job opening for a sales and management trainee at the local lumber yard (GBS Building Supply, a division of US LBM). Since I enjoyed the work my father and I did, I decided to interview to learn more about the industry.

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company?

I’ve had the opportunity to go through some professional development courses such as yellow belt, green belt, and Pulse, our leadership development program. From those programs I’ve learned how to manage projects better and communicate more effectively.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

It is one that is very welcoming to new ideas and encourages personal and professional growth.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

The different companies that make up US LBM. All of the companies that are part of US LBM are, and were prior to acquisition, industry leaders in their regions. They each have their own expertise and best practices that they bring to US LBM, to help us grow as a company.

Shanna Lundberg

Inside Sales Representative, ABC Millwork

Tell us about your job. 

I provide support for our sales representatives, create takeoffs and estimates, provide customer service through phone, email and in-person, enter orders and quotes into our order management system, process service requests, schedule deliveries, and more. 

How did you get into the industry? 

My degree is in architectural drafting. I worked in home design for a couple years and  realized I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I really am a numbers person, so estimating really stuck! I have worked for three different lumber yards and millwork shops in various estimating roles.

What do you like most about your work? 

Even though I seemingly do the same thing every day, it is always changing! I enjoy the people I work with and all the trades that cross our path. I enjoy working with homeowners to figure out what they truly want.

How have you grown as a professional since you joined your company? 

ABC Millwork and US LBM have truly let me grow as an individual. I have the support of my supervisor to get the adequate training I need to continue to grow. There are always new opportunities available.

What would you say makes US LBM unique? 

I can’t speak across the board, but in our Lyman Companies Family (the division ABC Millwork is a part of), I think what is unique is how we focus on “specializing” in what we are good at. For example, ABC Millwork specializes in windows, exterior doors and millwork, honing in on what we are good at. There are many lumber yards in the metro area that sell everything – we focus on what we are good at. 

Sherry Pearson

Shop Supervisor, Carpentry Contractors Company

Tell us about your role and a little of your background at US LBM.

I am a Shop Supervisor for Carpentry Contractors Company’s prefab shop in Montrose. I also run the Employee Engagement Committee and recently joined the Social Media Committee for Lyman Companies. I started working at CCC six years ago as a carpenter helper. My first day, I immediately realized I didn’t know much about carpentry. Thankfully I was determined not to give up and had many trainers and motivators to keep me going.

How did you get into the industry?

I was working as a Certified Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide and wanted a change. I had always felt like I wanted a “man job” but didn’t think I would be accepted anywhere, until I met a woman that said she had a job like that; she introduced me to CCC and US LBM.

 What do you like most about your work?

 I love swinging a hammer! The thing I like most is encouraging and helping others rise to their fullest potential. Starting from the bottom, not knowing much about the carpentry world, has given me a great perspective and helps me convey to others that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. Through CCC’s Employee Engagement Committee and through social media I have been able to show more about who we are as a company and what we do.  

How have you grown as a professional since you joined the company?

When I first started, I had a lot of anxiety and doubts. As time went on, with my peers and mentors encouraging me the entire way, I went from a carpenter helper, moved up six positions to what I am now, Shop Supervisor and Social Media Coordinator. I have learned how to handle some of the most difficult situations and so much more.

How would you describe the culture at US LBM?

US LBM has a culture of its own. I would describe it as impactful. They see potential in the smallest of people and pour into them. They were willing to invest in me, seeing the potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. US LBM puts their employees first and is respectful and mindful about their personal lives. They are all about their people.

What would you say makes US LBM unique?

How involved US LBM is in their people makes them unique. They are constantly offering classes and training to help their team succeed, providing resources to help employees be the best they can be. I would also say that everything they are doing day in and day out makes a difference. From donating cards for seniors to building homes for Habitat for Humanity, they are always trying to do good in our communities – I love that and being a part of the change!

Tiffany Reeder

Cabinetry Product Line Manager

What is it that excites you about working this industry and in the cabinetry category?

This industry is growing so much, specifically for my category (cabinetry). We've brought 3D technology into the space, using a lot of  new design techniques, and innovating. It's a fun place to be. I think what's rewarding for me as a designer, and through setting up our divisions with cabinetry showrooms, is to be able to fulfill the needs of our customers, whether it's a contractor customer, or the end user, it's a rewarding experience to be able to make their dreams come true.

What from your perspective sets US LBM apart in the building materials industry?

This is a huge growing category, and to be able to have the support that we have at US LBM with the tools, the technology, and the innovation, it's just awesome. US LBM has invested in me by allowing me to go after my Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, which is a master certification in continuous improvement. I'm now able to weave that into my daily interactions with our presidents, with our divisions as part of a core part of my business, and in my category, and it's allowed me not only to grow professionally, but personally as well.

What would you tell someone who might be thinking about joining the building materials industry?

This is the perfect time to enter the construction industry. With the technology and innovation that's entered our space, it's just an awesome and exciting place to be.

Tom Blaes Jr.

Location Operations Manager, Wisconsin Building Supply

Tell us about your role.

Being that I work in a smaller yard, I have a various array of responsibilities. I am our location's dispatcher and inventory control for stock items. I am part of our location's safety committee. I also handle all of the scheduling of truck maintenance and repair. I supervise approximately seven drivers and three yard personnel, and oversee any changes or upgrades done in our yard.

How did you get into the industry?

I was introduced into the industry back in 1998 when my uncle offered me a job hauling drywall with him. That is when I learned to operate a boom truck. That company closed, and in 2000 the company was advertising for a Boom Operator so I applied -- and here I am, 19 years later!

What do you like most about your job?

What I like most about my job is the different aspects that I deal with every day. It's not the same repetitive thing every day. I love to watch our location thrive in sales and customer satisfaction. 

What growth have you experienced in your role?

I think the biggest growth I have made as a professional, is learning how to accommodate a diverse background of individuals, and learning to not only support my team, but grow with them. There are so many different things that come up as our company grows, you have to be willing to adjust and keep an open mind, in order to grow with the company.

How would you describe the culture of the company?

The culture of US LBM is very diverse, and very unique. We have many different divisions with different variations of practices, but yet we find a way to thrive under one common umbrella. 

What is something you like most about US LBM?

The unique thing about US LBM is how LT (our CEO) and his leadership team have provided continuous training opportunities within the companies, to allow advancement opportunities. I remember 10 years ago when LT and Bill Imig joined together to save our division from closing [by founding US LBM and acquiring Wisconsin Building Supply]. Never would I have pictured over 250 locations under US LBM all coming together in this short amount of time. The technology and customer transparency that we have achieved speaks volumes to being an industry leader.