Holly Sams 40 under 40 winner 2025

IN THE NEWS

Celebrating Leadership and Innovation: Holly Sams Named to Woodworking Network’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

At Walker Woodworking, we believe that great craftsmanship starts with great people — and this year, we’re proud to celebrate one of our own.

Holly Sams, our Operations Manager, has been recognized by Woodworking Network as part of the 2025 Wood Industry 40 Under 40, an annual award honoring the next generation of professionals shaping the future of woodworking across North America.

The 40 Under 40 program recognizes individuals who are redefining excellence in cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and manufacturing. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, this award honors leaders who combine innovation, efficiency, and passion — all qualities Holly demonstrates every day at Walker Woodworking.

A Visionary in Operations and Leadership

Holly joined Walker Woodworking seven years ago as a cabinet engineer, quickly standing out for her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and drive to continually learn and improve. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to think strategically led her to her current leadership role as Operations Manager — where her impact has been truly transformative.

In 2020, when Walker Woodworking expanded to a 75,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, Holly played a key role in implementing Innergy Software and lean manufacturing principles with the help of Quantum Lean.

The results speak for themselves: improved efficiency, reduced stress, and a more profitable, balanced workflow. Today, our team enjoys no mandatory overtime, precise production scheduling, and nearly perfect flow, all thanks to Holly’s leadership and innovation.

Women in Woodworking: Leading by Example

The woodworking and cabinetry industries have long been male-dominated, but women like Holly are changing that narrative. Her leadership style — grounded in collaboration, precision, and mentorship — reflects a new generation of professionals who blend technology with traditional craftsmanship.

At Walker Woodworking, we’re proud to see a woman in a key leadership role shaping not only our company’s success but also inspiring the next generation of women in manufacturing. Holly’s journey is proof that passion, adaptability, and teamwork can drive both personal growth and business excellence.

A Shared Success Story

As one of the top custom cabinetry manufacturers in North Carolina, Walker Woodworking thrives because of the people behind our craftsmanship. Holly’s recognition is also a reflection of the dedication and teamwork that define our culture.

“We are a luxury brand of custom cabinetry. That is a hard business model to know your true cost, but Holly, with the help of Leslie and Stacey, has made this possible.”

We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate this milestone and share in Holly’s well-deserved success. Her story reminds us that when innovation meets heart, great things happen — not just for our company, but for the future of woodworking.

Congratulations, Holly!

The team at Walker Woodworking is proud to have you represent us as part of the Woodworking Network’s 40 Under 40 professionals, class of 2025.

/onOctober 14, 2025/updatedNovember 9, 2025/inIn The News
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