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LBM Advantage proudly hosted its 7th annual NextGen Leadership Conference in Whitefish, Mt., bringing together emerging leaders from across their membership for a sold-out event focused on job knowledge, professional leadership development, and industry collaboration.
Held, April 26-29 at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake, the event provided attendees with a well-rounded agenda that combined educational sessions, networking, industry tours, and outdoor experiences throughout Montana’s Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park region. Participants visited fellow co-op member Western Building Center’s truss plant for a behind-the-scenes look at its operations and dedication to supporting local communities. The group also toured Weyerhaeuser’s MDF, lumber, and plywood manufacturing facilities, gaining valuable insight into modern wood products production and supply chain processes.
Beyond the conference sessions, attendees explored the region through UTV excursions, hiking adventures, and scenic tours of Glacier National Park, providing additional opportunities to strengthen relationships and connect with peers in a memorable setting.
LBM Advantage CEO Dave DeJoy presented on the future vision of the co-op and the organization’s continued commitment to supporting independent dealers and developing the next generation of industry leaders. Educational sessions included sales and business strategy presentations by Lynne Jensen-Nelson, founder of Conversion-omics, and renowned author and motivational speaker Meridith Elliott Powell. Human resources-focused sessions were led by LBM Advantage HR Director Kellianne Lundgren, while peer panel discussions highlighting member successes and challenges were facilitated by NextGen Chairman Alex Moyer of A.D. Moyer Lumber. Additional panel discussions focused on purchasing strategies.
“The energy and engagement at this year’s conference were outstanding,” said Dave DeJoy, CEO of LBM Advantage. “Our investment in NextGen reflects our long-term commitment to the future leaders of our co-op organizations and the independent dealer channel as a whole.”
The continued growth and sell-out success of the conference demonstrates the strong demand for leadership development, peer networking, and collaborative learning opportunities within the LBM Advantage membership.
LBM Advantage is a member-owned cooperative comprised of the industry’s premier independent lumber and building materials dealers. The cooperative operates locations in New Windsor, N.Y.; Grand Rapids, Mi.; Smithfield, N.C.; and Conroe, Tx.
