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
laundry room with a televisionWalker Woodworking

Laundry Room Design Tips

The laundry room is essential to the smooth operation of the household because it keeps garments tidy and ready for use. Given that the washing cycle never ends, it is evident that long periods will be spent in this area.

Read more
/0 Comments/by

Designing For A Small Kitchen

Cramped, tiny, small, and tight. These words describe a kitchen that is smaller than average. While many will say that their kitchen is not as functional as they would like it to be, regardless of size, it is always more apparent when in a small kitchen.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Jewelry holder with earringsWalker Woodworking

5 Organization Tips for your Home

Organization is an essential part of maintaining a home’s optimal functioning and minimizing stress for everyone. Small piles of clutter can grow quickly, and as their size increases, so does the pressure to eliminate them.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Large walnut hood with white backsplashWalker Woodworking

Choosing The Right Cabinet Company: Questions To Ask!

When selecting a custom cabinet company for your home, asking the right questions can make all the difference. Custom cabinets can transform your space, adding functionality, beauty, and value to your home.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
pink laundry roomWalker Woodworking

Designing the Perfect Laundry Room with Custom Cabinets

Often overlooked in home design, the laundry room has evolved into a space where functionality and style intersect. No longer just a utility space hidden away, modern laundry rooms are designed to make washing and folding clothes an efficient and enjoyable experience.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
Most Popular Features in a Kitchenblue kitchen island with dishware in drawersWalker WoodworkingA white kitchen with a marble island countertop with grey cabinetryWalker Woodworking Signs Your Kitchen Is Overdue for New Cabinetry