It’s impossible to exaggerate the importance of developing future generations of leaders in any industry. But here in LBM, the importance is magnified by a number of factors: succession challenges, industry consolidation, the graying of existing leadership and the emerging digital landscape.
Also unique to the LBM industry – there’s no adequate textbook, let alone a full-blown college major to generate future leaders.
But it takes courage. The newly enhanced HBSDealer NextGen Awards program has uncovered a class of leaders with impeccable credentials and inspiring references.
“Shedding light on the NextGen movement and recognizing our honorees has been an exciting project for the team at HBSDealer,” said Ken Clark, HBSDealer editor in chief. “We understand the importance of the mission and we’re thrilled to see so many examples of current and future leadership. Congratulations to all.”
The 2026 Class of NextGen Award honorees:
Hammond Lumber Company
Director of Organizational Development
Brandon Saubert
Hayward Lumber Co.
Regional Sales Manager
Chandler McCray Jr.
McCray Lumber Co.
General Manager
Seth Blevins
McCray Lumber Co.
Operations Manager
Tripp Mays
Rise Lumber & Truss
Manager Trainee
Abigail Sanford
Sanford and Hawley, Inc.
Branch Manager
