Occupation: Senior Vice President, U.S. Sales & Marketing, Dealer & Wholesale, Hearth & Home Technologies

Special Interests/Hobbies: “My favorite things to do outside of work include spending time with my family, boating, and snowshoeing. I spend a lot of time in the summer on the Mississippi River. It’s beautiful, full of history, and provides a great way to relax!”

Problems/Issues Facing the Hearth Industry: “Whether we are working on NSPS 2020 compliance, or Zero Net Energy (ZNE) requirements, these types of programs are putting pressure on product development for manufacturers throughout North America.
“As e-shopping becomes more and more common, the hearth industry will need to work on bridging the gap between how consumers begin their hearth product search online, but ultimately conclude it in a specialty hearth retail location.”

Key Trends in the Hearth Industry Today: “Homeowners are looking for ways to enhance their lives. How can hearth help? A few ways might include: fireplace controls that are easier to use and have better functionality; outdoor fire features that allow family and friends to gather comfortably around; indoor fireplaces that are cleaner and provide a better view of the fire; design options that allow homeowners to make the fireplace feel like it fits their own style; and heat options that deliver the heat homeowners want, when they want it, and where they want it.”

Forecast for your Business in 2019: “While the economy has slowed down a bit in the last few months, I expect the retail and remodel hearth business to continue to be strong. Consumers are still willing to invest in their homes, and investing in hearth is a good way to increase home value. On the other hand, the wood and pellet stove and insert business stands to be challenged in 2019 as retailers and manufacturers work on depleting their current inventory of Step 1 compliant product in preparation for Step 2, 2020, certified products.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “11 years.”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “I enjoy reading Hearth & Home magazine because it highlights so many people and businesses who are passionate about the hearth business. The spotlights on businesses, articles on trends in product categories, and the insights on market conditions are some of my favorite elements.”