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Any topic relevant to the kitchen cabinet industry may be discussed during CKCA roundtable sessions. Any information shared by other roundtable participants is voluntary. The advice and experiences shared  is for the sole purpose of providing  perspective and opinion that may be helpful to other roundtable participants, it is not paid professional advice. CKCA does not assume any responsibility for how roundtable participants use this information shared during these sessions.  CKCA encourages participants to seek professional advice as needed.  Discussions on specific pricing, discounts or price changes with competitors or suppliers may support anti-competitive behaviour and is not permissible during roundtable discussions. 

CKCA Manufacturers Roundtables Sessions are not recorded. Participants are welcome to take notes from the sessions. CKCA reserves the right to follow up on matters raised at the roundtable that may be helpful to CKCA and the membership.

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

I am a motivated by a strong desire for both personal and professional growth through collective intelligence. I believe in the power of sharing ideas, learning from eachother, and challenging ourselves to evolve. The CKCA board offers a unique opportunity to engage with peers across the country, to validate our perspectives, and to grow stronger together.

Beyond individual growth, I want to contribute to a stronger, more unified Canadian manufacturing ecosystem. I believe that by increasing collaboration and exchange from east to west, we can build resilience and reduce our dependence on unstable forces beyond our southern border. My vision is one of a thriving “Canada Inc.” – where manufacturers speak with a shared voice, work together, and elevate the industry as a whole.

I bring a wide-ranging operational leadership background that touhces every aspect of a manufacturing organization. As interim Vice President of Operations for a Canadian kitchen cabinet manufacgturers from Quebec, I oversee multiple departments including customer service, order management, production, IT, procurement, operational excellence, maintenance, and quality assurance.

I believe I can bring a balanced, pragmatic voice to the CKCA Board – one that values innovation, operational excellence, and industry collaboration – and I’m excited to contribute to the growth and strength of our industry.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

As someone who operates directly within the kitchen cabinet manufacturing sector and oversees a wide spectrum of functions — from customer service to production and digital transformation — I understand both the challenges and opportunities our industry is facing.

What I bring to the CKCA Board is a mix of operational depth, cross-functional leadership, and a genuine desire to collaborate. I’m committed to helping us grow as a collective — to share what works, to challenge what doesn’t, and to make space for innovation without losing sight of our craft and our people.

If elected, I will approach this role with humility, curiosity, and drive. I believe the best ideas come when diverse voices are heard, and I would be proud to represent our community and contribute actively to the future of our industry.

You can reach Jeremie at jeremie.tudeau@miralis.com or 418-714-4492

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

Over the past several years, I’ve been inspired by the tremendous growth and evolution of the CKCA. Its expansion in both membership and national presence reflects not only the vitality of our industry, but also the strength of its leadership and commitment to fostering connection, innovation, and shared learning. I believe the CKCA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Canadian cabinetry, and I’m eager to contribute to that mission as a board member.

Professionally, I bring a strong background in sales and business development, having led strategic growth in multi-family cabinetry sector and helped establish successful B2B channels across regions. These roles have given me insight into national market trends and the diverse needs of clients and partners across Canada. Being on the board would allow me to share this perspective, while learning even more from others in the industry – especially those working in segments or regions I may not directly interact with day to day.

One of the most valuable parts of my CKCA membership so far has been the opportunity to engage with professionals from across the country. These conversations have been both enlightening and encouraging, offering a broader view of how businesses are adapting, thriving, and supporting each other in a competitive and rapidly changing environment. Serving on the board would deepen these connections and allow me to contribute to building an even more inclusive and collaborative community.

As a woman in a historically male-dominated industry, I also recognize the importance of representation and mentorship. Being part of the CKCA board would not only allow me to lend my voice to important conversations around diversity and inclusion, but also to model leadership and advocacy for other women in the industry – especially those who are early in their careers or navigating leadership paths. I believe that having more women in strategic roles helps broaden perspectives and fosters a richer, more balanced decision-making environment for everyone.

I genuinely enjoy listening, learning, and facilitating meaningful conversations. I see this board opportunity to both contribute and grow – personally and professionally. It’s a chance to stay engaged with evolving challenges and innovations, while playing an active role in guiding the industry’s direction.

I’m proud to be part of this industry, and I’m excited about the potential to help move it forward through service on the CKCA board.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

Being only 7 years in the cabinet industry, I feel that I offer fresh insight into helping shape the future of our incredible field. I enjoy tech and process, I enjoy networking and have a deep love for learning and growing individually as well as being a part of the bigger picture for both Westwood and the industry itself.

I also find it fascinating that women are becoming more invested in the industry and I want to continue that momentum by investing time and putting commitment into the CKCA, which in turn, supports an industry that I have grown to appreciate.

You can reach Rishelle at rishellet@westwoodcabinetry.com or 250-801-4304

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

Mike’s desire to serve on the CKCA Board stems from a genuine commitment to contributing his time, experience, and energy toward strengthening the cultural fabric of the region. With a background that bridges both creative practice and a deep knowledge of the cabinet industry, Michael brings a collaborate mindset, strategic thinking, and a strong appreciation for the manufacturing ecosystem.

He sees the Board as a place where he can help advocate for equitable access to funding in our country’s changing landscape, promote emerging tradesmen, and ensure that the manufacturing  industry continues to grow in a way that reflects the diversity and richness of the region. Serving on the CKCA Board aligns with his values and provides a meaningful opportunity to give back to a community that has inspired him.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

Mike has been running Troico a successful cabinetry manufacturing business since 2012. Mike starting with no outside funding, built business over the years, recently started exporting outside of Canada to the US. Prior to Troico Mike sold a successful software company that specialized in manufacturing and aerospace deployment and automation of manufacturing facilities throughout BC and Alberta. His business was also an autodesk dealer which was certified to sell autocad, autocad inventor and autocad electrical among other software. Mike has an intimate knowledge of the manufacturing industry.

Within Mike’s company he developed a program to employ young adults on the on the spectrum in Troico’s manufacturing facility in Coquitlam, BC. Manufacturing cabinetry is repetitive and process driven which is excellent for the autistic mind. He rolled out this program in honor of his son, Jackson (13 years old) who is on the spectrum. Securing meaningful employment is currently the number one challenge for people on the spectrum as they age into adulthood. Mike is doing his best to create opportunities to break down the stigma surrounding employees that are on the spectrum as the number of people on the spectrum grows.

You can reach Michael at mrichter@troico.ca or 604-545-0123

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

I believe that the CKCA plays a vital role in shaping best practices, promoting innovation and fostering collaboration across the kitchen industry. I would like to serve on the board to contribute to this mission by bringing my experience and passion for craftmanship and client satisfaction. I am interested in supporting initiatives that will strengthen our industry and advocate for quality and education and ensure a future for existing and emerging manufacturers across Canada.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

I am a highly motivated professional with a deep commitment to collaboration and teamwork across a broad spectrum of personalities and perspectives. With years of experience in client relations and management, I have honed the skills necessary to remain focused, adaptable, and dedicated to the long-term success of our industry.

In light of ongoing global challenges, such as trade wars and tariffs, I belie it is more important than ever to stand behind organizations like the CKCA, which champion and elevate Canadian manufacturers. Supporting our local and national producers is vital to ensuring we remain competitive and relevant to the diverse consumers within our country.

As a board member, I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the CKCA’s initiatives while continuing to learn and grow through the shared experience and expertise of fellow members. I am eager to bring my energy, insight, and dedication to the table to help move our industry forward.

You can reach Praveena at praveena.nathan@niico.com or 416-745-6426

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

I am interested in being nominated to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA). My background aligns with CKCA’s mission to inspire progress and innovation in the kitchen manufacturing industry. I know a few people on the board and many of CKCA’s members. I believe I will add value to this team.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

I have had the privilege of collaborating with diverse teams across various capacities. In my previous roles, I worked closely with cross-functional teams to achieve shared objectives. This experience underscored the significance of effective communication, active listening, and mutual respect among team members.

I have extensive experience in Canadian building industry distribution, including:

• Robert Bury Peterborough: Outside Sales Representative, servicing Ontario East and selling to small and mid-sized cabinet companies.
• Thomes Canada: Account Representative, selling Russian plywood through distribution channels across Canada supporting distribution with education to support millworks
• Formica/FENIX: Account Manager for distribution and postform companies, supporting Kitchen and Bath dealers in Ontario East and the Maritimes.
• Garnica Plywood: Canadian Account Representative, selling to distribution and supporting millwork companies.

I have had the unique opportunity to work in almost every aspect of the kitchen cabinet industry from distribution to international mill supply.

This diverse experience has deepened my understanding of the kitchen cabinet industry and the significance of quality products, education, and networking. My commitment to integrity and collaboration has enabled me to build strong industry relationships, and I am passionate about helping companies innovate and enhance their market competitiveness.

My international experience in the wood industry further positions me to contribute to CKCA’s goals. I am known for my passion, my technical knowledge in the wood industry, my positive outlook on life and my constant networking.

I kindly request your support for my nomination to the Board, where I aim to foster excellence, facilitate continuous improvement, and build trust among CKCA members and the community.

I look forward to contributing to CKCA and supporting our members in achieving their goals.

You can reach Freya at fhannah@cineapps.com or 705-741-6956

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

The CKCA brings a great deal of support, learning and collaboration for the kitchen cabinet industry and I found that being a part of the CKCA has been instrumental in my personal and company growth. I currently serve on the board, completing my first 3-year term,  and I am passionate about this industry. Most importantly, I enjoy working with the team to assist the members in their journey within our industry. It is my intention to hopefully be re-elected and continue all the great work that has been and will be done in the future.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

I was born and raised in Toronto and after high school, I entered into the Tool and Die trade and worked in that industry for almost ten years. During that time, I was recruited by many companies to trouble shoot or prototype new products and systems. When my oldest son was born, I moved to Haliburton County and shortly after met my wife and started Chaulk Woodworking. We have raised 3 wonderful boys in this rural environment. Some of my interests are spending time with my family, motorcycle riding, outdoor activities, reading and our dogs…gotta love the dogs! Some of my personal goals are to travel around the world and learn about different cultures. I have a strong desire to constantly learn new things and try to be a great leader by inspiring and teaching those around me.

I have served on our local Chamber of Commerce Board and have been involved with workforce development in the Haliburton/Peterborough region. Currently, I am a member of Georgian College PAC for the cabinetmaking program, and I am proud to serve on the current term of the CKCA Board. One of my initiatives this year is to work alongside a not for profit housing corporation to assist them in developing a trusted trade alliance which would allow them to name drop our local trades that assist in raising funds to house families in need.

It pleases me that our memberships desire to partake on the CKCA board has increased dramatically. Regardless of the outcome, I am humbled to be a part of this great organization and will offer help and assistance to our industry whereever possible. I look forward to serving another term if the membership so desires.

You can reach Trevor at trevor@shopchaulk.com or 705-854-1275

What is your interest in the CKCA and why would you like to serve on the CKCA Board?

My drive to join the CKCA board has many facets. First and foremost, board experience is something I would like to add to my skill set. I am excited to experience some of the non-tangible things that board experience offers. For instance:

• Collaboration with other like-minded professionals.
• The challenge to be creative and innovative.
• Volunteered commitment to making our industry stronger.

The second reason I would like to serve is to become more connected as a company with the CKCA and ultimately to have better access to information. Since my on-boarding to Columbia 3 years ago, I have consistently worked to build the connection between Columbia and the association. This would be a large step in the right direction for achieving this goal.

Finally, I would like to outline a certain “call to action” I feel in everything I do. I want to have input, and I love making things better. I come equipped with a drive to achieve, and a curious mindset. I love questioning the status quo and figure out what ‘other ways’ this can be done. In this way, I think I can help the CKCA realize its mission.

What would you like to tell the voting members about you?

As a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Project Management specialist with extensive experience in operations, logistics, and organizational development, I bring a practical yet strategic approach to help organizations grow.

My work has focused on streamlining systems, eliminating inefficiencies, and building high-performing, collaborative cultures. I’ve led initiatives across diverse teams and sectors-locally and globally- and understand the importance of inclusive leadership and long-term vision.

I’m currently enrolled in executive leadership training at Stanford University, where I’m deepening my financial acumen and exploring cutting-edge approaches to innovation, disruption, product management, leadership and team building.

If elected, I will bring this blend of experience, insight, and ongoing learning to the Board – supporting its mission with energy, accountability, and a commitment to advancing the industry as a whole.

You can reach Craig at craigbauslaugh@columbiacabinets.com or 604-850-3538