08/28/2026
That’s a wrap on IWF 2026.
When people hear, “I am headed to another IWF,” they probably picture me spending four days walking around and dreaming about equipment. And, to be fair, there was plenty to dream about—from robotic sanders to CNC cells capable of processing two bunks of plywood in a single shift.
But IWF wasn’t primarily about the equipment for me this year. For me, it was about the PEOPLE..
It was about the 3:00 a.m. alarm to make a flight, then catching a charter bus with fellow Cabinet Makers Association members to visit other small shops like ours—shops working through the same challenges, finding new ways to innovate, and continuing to move forward.
It was about keeping the business moving while I was away—handling engineering, reviewing shop drawings remotely, and staying connected with the hardworking team back home. They kept everything moving so well that it was almost like I wasn’t gone, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
It was about the honest, unscheduled conversations in the middle of an aisle at the equipment show. It was listening to other shop owners speak openly about their challenges, sharing what has worked, and discussing how we can help one another build stronger businesses, grow better brands, develop a valuable network, and create a real community within our industry.
When I’m at the shop, I’m all in. Most days, I barely have time to breathe, much less step back, reflect, plan, and strategize. This week gave me the opportunity to do that alongside people who truly understand what it takes to run and grow a small cabinet business.
I can tell you—it’s about a lot more than building boxes.
Yes, I saw some incredible equipment, but I’m heading home with something even more valuable: new ideas, stronger relationships, a clearer perspective, and a renewed appreciation for the people who make this industry what it is.
And yes, maybe I’m bringing home ideas for a couple of pieces of equipment too.
This year, IWF wasn’t about what the machines can build. It was about what we can build together.
