FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Congratulations to the NADRA Members recently honored at this year’s LBM Strategies Conference, to be held  Oct. 14-16, 2026 in Milwaukee, WI.

Inductees to the Class of 2026 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.

Congratulations to LBM Journal’s 40 Under 40 Inductees:

Mark Weber, Area Sales Manager Michigan
Builders FirstSource, a proud member of NADRA.org

Where do you see yourself in five years: I see myself continuing my career with Builders FirstSource while growing as an empathetic and effective leader. I also hope to have published a sales and leadership book I am currently working on focused on real-world experience, relationship-driven selling, and leadership within the LBM industry. My goal is to be known not only for results, but for developing people, strengthening the industry, and leaving a positive, lasting impact.

Advice for the next generation: My advice to young people considering a career in the LBM industry is to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Growth in this business comes from taking on challenges, learning from mistakes, and continuously pushing yourself to improve. Stay organized, be honest, and approach your work with discipline and professionalism. Just as important, strive to be a true partner to your customers. Learn from those who came before you—there is tremendous knowledge and experience in this industry but don’t be afraid to set higher goals and bring fresh ideas forward.

Fun fact: I’m a proud husband, dad to four daughters, Disney enthusiast, and warm-weather fan living in Michigan. I love fishing, boating, and snorkeling. I consider my ADHD my superpower—it keeps me energized, creative, and always moving.

Wes Birchmeier, National Account Manager
Simpson Strong-Tie, a proud member of NADRA.org

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 see myself continuing to not only grow as a leader but mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders within our industry that will help carry us all into the future.

Advice for the next generation: I would say dive right in headfirst, ask questions, and find a mentor both in your organization and outside your organization. This industry is full of people that are willing to help out, teach, and guide you as you start off your career. Finally, your career isn’t always going to be predictable, find the things you like to do and that you are good at, but know that you have to be open to opportunities. Some of the best career growth can come from taking a leap on a job that might be out of your comfort zone.

Fun fact: I am married and we have one amazing daughter. When I’m not working, my favorite hobbies are spending time with my wife and daughter, hanging out with family and friends, and pretty much anything that involves sports.

Nathan Hayes, Operations Vice President
Deckorators, Inc., a proud member of NADRA.org

Where do you see yourself in five years: I would like to continue to expand my sphere of influence, and hone my business acumen and skills to have the opportunity to run one of the business units within UFP Industries.

Advice for the next generation: I would really like to pass along a few key things that I wish I would have known or realized sooner: The first is that there is a path for everyone within our industry, from HR to operations to data analytics, so don’t let your first position limit your perspective on opportunity. Secondly, and probably most importantly, is the higher you wish to move in a company, the less you are judged on your individual acts, and the more you will be judged on the teams you build and how they perform. Develop others to develop yourself.

Fun fact: I love being outdoors playing with my two sons. When we aren’t out playing, you can usually find me training or participating in endurance sports. I am currently building up to running my first Ironman 70.3 event this year.

See more LBM 40 Under 40 Inductees to the Class of 2026 HERE

Source: LBM Journal Read original HERE