A Day of Learning and Networking in Wisconsin
The 2025 Wisconsin Connection Conference brought together building materials professionals for a day of learning, networking and industry insights at the Glacier Canyon Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells on January 14, 2025.
Learning and Connection
Attendees enjoyed a warm welcome and a series of sessions tailored to our community. Business owners and managers shared insights during a roundtable discussion, while David Wells led seminars on operational excellence which focused on careful planning, effective design and disciplined processes. Mike McDole energized the crowd with sales seminars that offered practical strategies for boosting profitability through gross margin management, upselling and strong project management skills. Russ Kathrein delivered a fast-paced discussion on effective leadership, equipping attendees with strategies to foster a collaborative work environment.
Networking Lunch and Membership Engagement
A networking lunch, which doubled as the BLD Connection Wisconsin and WLDEF Membership Meeting, provided a chance for members to connect, celebrate achievements and discuss leadership. During this session, successes were celebrated, and special awards recognized All American Do it Center as the 2025 Dealer of the Year and Wausau Supply Co. as the 2025 Supplier of the Year. A keynote by Russ Kathrein highlighted emerging trends in the LBM industry and set an optimistic tone for the day.
Industry Perspectives and Celebration
A customer panel with builders, contractors, and remodelers provided first-hand insights into selecting lumber and building material suppliers. The event concluded with a festive networking reception, where attendees had the opportunity to unwind, connect further, and enjoy light refreshments.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our premium sponsors Boise Cascade, Do it Best, Federated Insurance, GAF, Manion's Wholesale Building Supplies, Northern Crossarm, Pennsylvania Lumbermens, ProWood, Wausau Supply, Western Building Products, Wolf Home Products, and Wisconsin Lumber Dealers Education Foundation Inc. (WLDEF). We also appreciate our general sponsors Amerhart, BLD 401K MEP Program, Dakota Steel and Trim, Data Business Equipment, Dealers Choice, LBM Advantage, SalesJack, Thermo-Tech Windows and WorkSafeWorkSmart.
The 2025 Wisconsin Connection Conference truly reflected BLD Connection's commitment to leadership, education and community. Our Team looks forward to continuing to support independent retail lumber yards and the building materials industry through future events and resources. For details on upcoming events and resources, please visit the BLD Connection website at www.bldconnection.org.