Sometimes the best careers begin by chance. For Steve Carreira, what started as a temporary summer job turned into a lifelong passion and a 37-year career at Humphrey’s Building Supply. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island in 1988 with a degree in Applied Mathematics, Steve walked into Humphrey’s looking for work to fill time before landing a job in his field. But fate intervened. Recognizing his analytical background, the company offered him a position as a purchasing agent—a role that became the foundation of a remarkable career in the building materials industry.
Photo 1: “The Man” of the hour, Steve Carreira, gives remarks in acceptance of RILBMDA’s Lumber Person of the Year Award. Photo 2: Scott Humphrey (left), Humphrey’s Building Supply, and RILBMDA President Evan Finnegan (right) congratulate Lumber Person of the Year Steve Carreira (center), also of Humphrey’s Building Supply.
Throughout his time at Humphrey’s, Steve has become known for his strategic thinking, leadership, and ability to build meaningful relationships across the industry. His influence extends far beyond his company. He has served as Chairman of the LMC New England Regional Group twice (2012 and 2017), Vice President of RILBMDA from 2021 to 2023, and is now concluding a two-year term (2023-2025) serving as RILBMDA President. In addition, he represents Rhode Island on the NRLA Board of Directors and contributes to the NRLA Education Committee, reflecting his deep commitment to both the business and educational sides of the industry.
Steve’s dedication and discipline extend beyond his professional life. A lifelong athlete, he was inducted into the Tiverton High School Hall of Fame in 2022 for his achievements in soccer and baseball—recognition that speaks to his drive and teamwork on and off the field.
Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, and raised in Tiverton, Rhode Island, Steve grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work and time together. His fondest memories include family vacations to Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and Florida, as well as holiday gatherings filled with laughter and tradition. Today, Steve shares his life with his wife, Nancy, whom he met on eHarmony in 2008 and married in 2013. Together, they have a large, blended family—Meagan, Adam, Rosemary, and Kevin—and five grandchildren: Aria, Asher, Henry, and Dylan, with another grandchild on the way in 2026.
When he’s not working, Steve enjoys traveling, hiking, live music, and sports. Guided by the philosophy of surrounding himself with positive, joyful people, he thrives on the energy they create together. Inspired by the wisdom and love of his parents, Steve approaches life with gratitude, balance, and purpose—qualities that have made him an outstanding leader, mentor, and friend within the lumber community.