Wednesday, August 14, 2024
The Wood Industry Association (WIA) celebrated industry leaders at the 2024 Wooden Globe Awards during the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) in Atlanta. Held at the Night at the Tabernacle event, the awards recognized exceptional contributions to the woodworking industry, with Greyloch receiving the “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology” award and Mark Smith of Reed-Custer High School in Crestwood, IL, honored as the “Educator of the Year.”
Commitment to Excellence Through Technology – Greyloch
The “Commitment to Excellence Through Technology” award acknowledges companies that invest in the latest woodworking machinery technology to maintain a competitive edge in the global market. This year, Greyloch, a family-owned business specializing in custom cabinetry, was recognized for its dedication to high-quality craftsmanship and innovation.
Founded in 1991 by Shaun and Dianne Fickes, Greyloch has grown into a leader in the woodworking industry. In 2023, the company opened a state-of-the-art 96,909 square foot manufacturing facility in Star, Idaho, equipped with advanced technology from Homag. This $44 million facility allows Greyloch to produce custom cabinetry efficiently, minimizing waste and reducing lead times. The manufacturing line optimizes raw material use through cutting-edge machines that handle cutting, edgebanding, drilling, and gluing. The addition of a Sorteq sorting system enables Greyloch to store and assemble up to 2,500 cabinet parts, ensuring consistent production flow and timely delivery to customers.
Educator of the Year – Mark Smith
The “Educator of the Year” award celebrates individuals and institutions that develop structured curricula to train future woodworking professionals. Mark Smith, an industrial arts teacher at Reed-Custer High School, was recognized for his efforts to inspire students and equip them with the skills needed for a successful career in woodworking.
Smith’s curriculum includes courses in CAD, STEM, and production, providing students with high school and college credits, as well as Woodwork Career Alliance of North America credentials. Beyond the classroom, Smith connects students with the industry through career days, manufacturing events, and networking opportunities.
The 2024 Wooden Globe Awards highlight the ongoing commitment to excellence and education within the woodworking industry, reflecting the WIA’s mission to support and advance the sector.
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Tags: Educator of the Year, Greyloch, IWF Atlanta, mark smith, technology excellence, WIA, Wood Industry, Wooden Globe Awards, woodworking industry, woodworking USA
