Michael Richter – 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

Praveena Nathan – 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

Freya Hannah – 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

Trevor Chaulk – 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

Craig Bauslaugh, 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

 

 

Jean Bakhache, 2025/2026 Board Candidate

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

I’ve been working for Planit Canada for 10 years now and have attended almost all of the events hosted by the CKCA. I have witnessed their involvement and dedication to our wonderful industry, and I would love to offer my leadership, knowledge, and passion for the community and the industry.

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

I feel that I would bring a unique perspective to the woodworking community. I am a software supplier that can connect manufacturers and other suppliers through our software. I believe in what the CKCA represents, and I adore our community. I am based in Quebec, but I have a great relationship with our customers across the country, all thanks to the wonderful CKCA events held over the years. It would be a great honour and pleasure to sit with you all to discuss the future of our great industry. I am a very dedicated and loyal father, friend, partner and employee and I hope to serve on the CKCA Board of Directors.

Jean can be reached at jeanb@planitcanada.ca or 514-926-1324

New CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group

ANNOUNCEMENT

New CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group to collaborate on manufacturing technology initiatives

January 23, 2025 / OTTAWA – The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA) has launched a transformative initiative for the industry, the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, tasked with harnessing advanced manufacturing technologies to address business challenges such as low-cost imports, demographic changes and labour shortages, and the rising costs of operations in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The CKCA initiative is a model approach for collaboration and innovation in the industry, designed to empower Canadian manufacturers with their technological evolution. By pooling resources and knowledge, members can collectively develop solutions tailored to industry needs.

The Peer Group will begin its work with a “CKCA BEST Audit” that identifies business improvements by assessing operational efficiency, sustainability, and technological readiness.

Another focus of the Peer Group is to find solutions to close the productivity gap with U.S. manufacturers, an issue that has increasing importance given the threat of U.S. tariffs. CKCA recognizes that U.S. factories often leverage more advanced automation and processes, resulting in a higher output at lower costs. The Peer Group will equip Canadian manufacturers with the tools to bridge this gap, securing their position in domestic and international markets.

Chris Leonard, Chair of the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, relates that the group is open to all CKCA members meeting the participation criteria. The distinct benefit of joining is that members gain access to cutting-edge technologies, shared resources, and industry-leading expertise. For specific questions on possible membership, contact cleonard@kaizenlp.com.

Luke Elias, Vice-President of the CKCA Board of Directors, says:

“In many ways the kitchen cabinet manufacturing industry in our country is at a crossroads and I am excited for the potential of the CKCA Peer Group to take great strides forward for the Canadian industry. By addressing challenges like labour shortages and increased operations costs, the peer group will develop practical, easily adaptable real solutions to increase productivity, positioning our member manufacturers for a resilient and innovative future,”

Chris Leonard, Chair of the CKCA Advanced Manufacturing Peer Group, says:  “CKCA’s initiative empowers manufacturers and is a critical step for the kitchen cabinet industry toward sustainability, competitiveness, and growth. By collaborating, we’re building solutions that keep Canadian-made cabinets relevant and competitive. At the core, this is about safeguarding the future of our Canadian industry.”

The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA), established in 1968, is a national trade association representing the kitchen cabinet industry in Canada. CKCA works to inspire progress and innovation in the industry, by promoting excellence, facilitating continuous improvement and working to ensure high standards for design and manufacturing are upheld. www.ckca.ca

For more information please contact: Sandra Wood, Executive Director, CKCA

CKCA Call for Urgent Action in Budget 2023

CKCA is part of the Canadian Manufacturing Coalition (CMC), a group of Canada’s leading manufacturing sector associations chaired by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporers (CME). We meet quarterly to discuss important issues facing the manufacturing sector and there is never a shortage of issues to discuss!

Our participation in this coalition offers CKCA members a vital channel to reach Government. The issues and potential solutions are discussed as a means to help manufacturing in Canada continue to evolve and to thrive.

Please see CMC Budget 2023 Press Release signed by CKCA and 20 other assocations that was sent to Government March 16, 2023 to address four important issues:

  1. Labour shortage
  2. Investment in and adoption of advance technologies
  3. Increase domestic production and exports
  4. Adapting to Canada’s climate change plan

 

Growth through Culture – Four Key Ingredients

Article prepared by: Amrita Bhogal, People and Culture Leader, Sunrise Kitchens Ltd

Did you get a chance to make your Masala Chai? On the tour at Sunrise Kitchens, Amrita Bhogal, People and Culture Leader and the VP of CKCA, shared with us a special Masala spice blend.

You may be thinking how does Masala Chai connect to manufacturing cabinets?

The recipe of Masala Chai has been passed down through many generations and today families have their own unique spice blend of brewing masala chai. Culture is like masala chai. There are many variations on how to build your organizational culture and to share our process we have identified our top 4 ingredients for our recipe, Growth through Culture.

  1. Respectful Community

An important attribute to building a strong culture is having respect. Some ways you can build a respectful community within your teams is to practice active listening skills. Being an active listener can help you build trust, mutual understanding and empathy with others.  Active listening can break the barrier of listening to any objectives when teams are faced the resistance to change. In LEAN perspective, “walk the Gemba or where the activity is and listen to the people”.

  Furthermore, approaching conflict as a collaborator will also help mitigate those who are most troubled with the changes. Collaborating and understanding where they are coming from will show your team you are willing to listen and be flexible to come to an agreement both are okay with.

2.Encouraging Environment

In order to have an environment that encourages your team to build their careers with your organization, it is important to provide opportunities of training, courses they can enroll in and participate in organizational workshops. Policies can also help streamline career development such as an employee transfer policy that is initiated by the employee.  An open-door policy also allows employees to come in and share their thoughts furthermore, for Managers, Amrita provides a monthly People and Culture Coversation with her management team. This allows managers to build a personal and professional connection along with providing extra support with their teams. Building a comprehensive onboarding program that includes, new hire presentation, safety training, QA training etc. will help new hires transition into the organization.

3. Inclusion, Equality and Diversity

A unique way to share the diversity of the team is to visually represent where your team is from. There are endless ideas how this can be brought to life, a few examples can be in the format of a map on the wall or a pin able globe.  Achieve team cohesiveness through being transparent in your communications such as creating an internal newsletter or having organizational meetings every quarter. Furthermore, making employee focused decisions will help create equality. Lastly, building a two-way communication in majority of conversations will help create collaboration and ownership. Another way this can be achieved is through creating a marriage between self-evaluations and performance reviews.

4. Organization Empowerment

Empowering the organization can take place through many activities. A good place to get started is by embodying company values by setting examples through actions and communications along with positively reinforcing desired values by providing verbal rewards when the employee demonstrates the values. Another empowering action can be to celebrate failures. This will help break down the fear associated with doing some wrong or the worry of termination. It is important to create a safe environment that allows employees to make mistakes and learn from them.  Empowerment can also show up in the form of system integration. Allowing departments to work together and access information when they need it will allow them to make powerful decisions.