2024 AWI Distinguished Chapter

The Chapter with the high score of 96 points is the AWI New England Chapter earning the title of AWI Chapter of the Year. The dedicated team of long-time members and volunteer leaders put their sights on the top prize early last year as they revolutionized they way they do things.

“It’s been a goal of AWI NE to establish more streamlined efficiencies and methods for our Chapter Operations. Our Chapter is fortunate to be in the position to hire the talent we need to take care of some of our time-consuming day-to-day admin tasks. This alone releases our highly competent and well connected Chapter volunteer leaders to focus on other aspects of our chapter that makes us better organized, more value driven and helps us keep our eye on the ball. Our leadership team keeps our Chapter purpose statement, vision and mission front and center as we make plans for the year ahead”, said Richard Bergan AWI NE President.

“We have a history of supporting activities that promote the health of the future of the architectural woodwork industry. We have always had a strong role in our regional SkillsUSA program, and we were able to establish a Chapter Committee dedicated strictly to our Successor Generation. We meet regularly and include industry members, educators and sponsors who are future forward thinkers. Compiling our regional data on job statistics that can be shared with woodwork career minded youth helps them visualize a future in our industry. We also realize the wealth of knowledge our combined community possesses about the industry and seeking avenues to share that continues to be a motivator”.

While the AWI New England chapter’s 2024 AWI Distinguished Chapters strategy was a whole chapter effort, special recognition for their outstanding leadership in this success is owed to Scott Rosenshein, Eagle Woodworking, who led the effort for the distinguished chapter; Kimberly Homs, Great in Counters, kept the Chapter focused on growing membership; Mike Sinrich, Blum, spearheaded golf; and Tony Aubin, Aubin Woodworking, stepped up to help plan programs.

The 44 member AWI New England Chapter came in first place, three points ahead of AWI Chicago Chapter, followed by AWI Ohio Valley with 76 points, AWI Great Lakes Chapter with 69 points in 4th place and AWI Washington in 5th place. AWI Great Lakes and AWI New England both tied for most improved score over last year’s score by 30 points each.

Minor changes to the 2024 – 2025 Distinguished Chapter program have been made and the new program will be discussed at the COC meeting September 22nd.