Anaheim, CA – (April 9th, 2024) – AWFS®, a leading woodworking, machinery, and suppliers’ organization, is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 term. The incoming board brings a wealth of experience and expertise to guide the company’s strategic direction and growth initiatives.
The newly installed AWFS® Executive Committee Includes:
Michael Cassell, Weinig Holz-Her USA, President of the Board
Rob Howell, WSI Machinery, Inc., Immediate Past President
Mark Alster, Leitz Tooling Systems LP, Vice President
Bob Brown, Royal Plywood, Secretary/ Treasurer
Karl Frey, Colonial Saw, Trade Show Chair
Daniel Hershberger, (formerly Weinig USA), Past President
AWFS® Board Members:
Phyllis Crystal, Uneeda Enterprizes, Inc.
Cassey Gibson, INNERGY
John Henderson, John Henderson and Company, LLC
Randy Jamison, Biesse
Brian Joyce, DTC Hardware Group
Hannah Khalaf, Surfprep Sanding
Nathan Klomp, Specified Components Co.
Polston Phil, Cabinet Vision
Jonathan Thompson, E.B. Bradley Co.
Each member of the Board of Directors offers a unique perspective and skill set, reflecting the diverse range of talents necessary to steer AWFS® toward continued success in wood technology, equipment, materials, and supplies.
“Having been in the woodworking industry and a member of AWFS® for over 25 years, I am extremely excited and honored to be installed as President of the Board of Directors. Our industry is undergoing significant changes, including labor shortages, an increased demand for automation, concerns about environmental sustainability, and fair trade issues that affect all our members. Additionally, we are currently grappling with the uncertainty of how Artificial Intelligence technology will impact our industry. These are indeed exciting times. The AWFS® Executive Committee and the Board of Directors look forward to collaborating to address the needs of our members and to contribute to the advancement of our industry,” said AWFS® Board President Michael Cassell.
As we close one chapter and open another, AWFS® extends its deepest gratitude to Rob Howell for his dedicated leadership as our Board President from 2022-2024. Throughout his tenure, Rob has steered us through some of the most challenging times, contributing significantly to the growth and resilience of our association.
Under Rob’s guidance, AWFS® has not only weathered storms like the 2009 recession and the 2021 pandemic but has also emerged stronger, more united, and more focused on serving our members and advancing our industry. His strategic vision and unwavering commitment have set a solid foundation that will continue to propel us forward.
As Rob steps into the role of Immediate Past President, his invaluable experience and insights will remain a vital asset to our Board and the organization as a whole. We are grateful for his continued dedication and look forward to his ongoing contributions.
With the transition to new leadership, we warmly welcome Michael Cassell as our incoming Board President. Michael’s proven leadership and innovative ideas will undoubtedly bring fresh perspectives and drive as we embark on this next chapter of AWFS®’ journey.
In the words of Rob Howell himself, “Working alongside my colleagues has been a privilege, and I want to express my gratitude to the Board and Staff. Despite facing challenges like the 2009 recession and the 2021 pandemic, this team has consistently ensured the success of our show. I must also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the committees that tirelessly work behind the scenes to enhance education and advocate for our industry through Public Policy initiatives. The addition of new Board Members from various sectors of our industry, including machinery, supplies, and software, is exciting. Their diverse perspectives will undoubtedly shape the future of AWFS under Michael Cassell’s leadership. I eagerly anticipate Michael’s innovative ideas and guidance in enhancing both the show and the association. Congratulations, Michael!”
The Board of Directors have officially assumed their roles effective March 1st, 2024, following the conclusion of the previous term.Top of Form For more information about AWFS® and its Board of Directors, please visit Board of Directors or contact Roschel Dizon at roschel@awfs.org.
Official Press Release:
AWFS® Announces New Board of Directors for 2024 – 2025 Term
About AWFS®:
AWFS® is the United States’ largest trade association representing the interests of the broad array of companies that supply the home and commercial furnishings industry.
For more information on the AWFS®Fair, please visit awfs.org.
About AWFS®Fair:
The AWFS®Fair, scheduled for July 22-25, 2025, in Las Vegas. The AWFS®Fair is a premier international event in the woodworking industry. Serving as a vital hub for global commerce in home and commercial furnishings, the fair brings together manufacturers and distributors of machinery, hardware, plastics, lumber, and construction materials.
For more information on the AWFS®Fair, please visit AWFSFair.org.
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Media Contact:
Roschel Dizon
Marketing Coordinator
roschel@awfs.org
323.215.0317