LMC members – premier lumber and building materials dealers – gathered in Denver, CO for the 2025 LMC Leadership Summit, where they spent three days embracing innovation through immersive education, practical tools, fresh perspectives, and lasting connections.
“The Leadership Summit is where vision meets action,” said Paul Thorne, vice president of stockholder relations at LMC. “We explore what it means to build ‘Business Beyond Ordinary’ through bold ideas, authentic leadership, and a culture that turns value into impact.”
The Leadership Summit guided leaders through the “learning journey” which began with the a pivotal element impacting all sectors of the LBM industry: technology, Tim Costello, co-founder of Built for the Future, showed dealers how technology will transform construction over the next decade. His presentation covered emerging technologies already entering the LBM industry and what LMC dealers need to know to stay competitive.
An exciting departure from the classroom took participants to Sashco’s Denver headquarters, where Jeff and Nick Burch led a tour of the manufacturing plant and R&D lab. Nathan Ferraro then guided a hands-on Caulking 101 workshop, demonstrating Sashco’s focus on practical training. President Les Burch concluded by explaining how a clear vision, culture and customer focus turned Sashco into a national leader.
Attendees toured Cerebral Brewing to tap into Denver’s craft-beer culture and gain fresh business perspectives. Co-founder and CEO Dan McGuire shared how he grew his business into a purpose-driven brand. Drawing on his experience in entrepreneurship and corporate strategy, McGuire showed dealers how values-based businesses, like theirs, thrive amid change.
Education continues with Brain McCauley’s session Sales Beyond Ordinary. Dealers gained practical sales strategies and insights focusing on core sales fundamentals. Attendees learned actionable techniques for territory management, improved sales call execution, and value-based messaging that drives results. Participants left with tools to drive team sales growth.
Dealers learned how to apply startup strategies to their existing businesses during Joel Phillips’ session. The Y Combinator founder shared practical methods for identifying growth opportunities and solving industry problems using entrepreneurial thinking. Attendees participated in Q&A discussions on funding and innovation while pitching their own ideas. Dealers left with tools to drive innovation and find new revenue streams in their operations.
Armed with valuable insights and expansive knowledge, the LMC network toured Empower Field, the home of the Denver Broncos. The behind-the-scenes tour was a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with each other. Led by general manager of Empower Field, Jay Roberts, dealers gained valuable business insights into stadium operations, event logistics, and managing world-class facilities. The experience offered practical lessons that dealers could apply to their own businesses. The day concluded with a celebratory tailgate party, wrapping up the 2025 LMC Leadership Summit on a
high note.
Virgina Lewes of Tart Lumber in Sterling, VA noted, “I have been attending for a number of years, and this is my favorite LMC event, especially because it offers so many opportunities for younger individuals in the industry to network, gain new ideas, make friends, and be inspired to drive change. It’s a chance to help bring industry into the 21st century. This is such a valuable opportunity for company leaders, for anyone you’re considering grooming for leadership, and for those who have shown leadership potential. It’s a place to gather ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and get invested.”
The Leadership Summit demonstrated LMC’s strategic investment in developing the next generation of LBM industry leaders. Attendees gained firsthand experience with leadership development resources and professional networking opportunities. The event reinforced LMC’s commitment to equipping future leaders with tools to thrive in an
evolving marketplace.
About LMC
LMC is the leading and longest-standing Forest Products and Building Materials Buying Group in the U.S., proudly serving independent lumber and building material dealers since 1935. In addition to our core dealer base, we’ve long supported component manufacturers and have expanded to serve millwork shops, gypsum specialists, commercial packaging companies, and post-frame building manufacturers, and most recently adding modular manufacturers. As a dealer-owned cooperative, LMC is built on the belief that we’re stronger together. Our motto, “Building Business
Together,” reflects a 90-year legacy of partnership, shared success, and industry leadership. United in their purchasing power, LMC members gain exclusive supplier access, product advantages, and the tools to grow stronger and more profitable. With a national footprint and forward-looking approach, LMC continues to lead with dealer driven innovation. Learn more at www.lmc.net or follow LMC on Facebook, Instagram,
X, and LinkedIn.
