Steve Guertin is a distinguished leader whose dedication to the lumber industry spans nearly five decades, leaving an impact that extends far beyond professional achievements.
His remarkable journey began at just 15 years old, working in the warehouse and driving trucks for Northeast Building Products in Westbrook, Maine. Even as a high school senior, his talent was evident when he was entrusted with his own small sales territory—a testament to the work ethic and capability that would define his entire career.
Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient: Steve Guertin (Coastal Forest Products) with co-worker and friend, Mike Kelly, presenting.
Born in Portland, Maine, and raised in Cape Elizabeth, Steve went on to earn an associate’s degree in business administration from the University of Southern Maine. His professional path has included several respected companies in the industry, among them DJ Building Products (now Huttig/Woodgrain) in Manchester, New Hampshire, and Coastal Forest Products, where he has proudly served as an outside salesperson covering Vermont and parts of New Hampshire for the past 20 years.
A true pioneer, Steve was the first U.S. employee for Goodfellow, a Canadian company, where he not only opened their first U.S. branch but also served as sales manager. His exceptional performance has been widely recognized, including being named top salesperson at Coastal Forest Products. Over the years, he has earned numerous product certifications from leading manufacturers, further strengthening his reputation as a knowledgeable and trusted resource in the industry.
Steve’s commitment to leadership extends beyond his professional career. Steve served 12 years on the VRLDA Board of Directors and was an active member of the Granite State Hoo Hoo for the same length of time. Mentorship has always been a guiding principle for him—having benefited from the wisdom of mentors throughout his career, he has continually paid it forward by guiding and encouraging others in the business.
Steve’s spirit of service extends into his community as well. He has been a devoted member of the National Ski Patrol for more than five decades, earning a rare and remarkable 50-Year Service Award. At just 17 years old, he passed the Professional Ski Patrol Association qualification test, an early example of the same excellence and determination that shaped his professional journey. To this day, he continues to serve on the Mount Sunapee Ski Patrol.
Family is at the heart of Steve’s life. He is the proud father of four successful children—Benjamin, Stephanie, Zachary, and Samantha—all of whom are married and have blessed him with eight grandchildren. Outside of work and volunteering, he enjoys skiing, gardening, woodworking, and helping friends with household projects, always living by his simple but profound rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Tonight, we celebrate not only Steve’s professional accomplishments but also the integrity, mentorship, and genuine care for others that define him. The VRLDA is proud to honor Steve Guertin as the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.
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