Hardwood Floors December 2018/January 2019

33.

Ben Suer Owner Diamond Wood Floors DEARING, GEORGIA diamondwoodfloors.com

Ben started working in the flooring business in 2002 after graduating fromChristendomCollege (Virginia) with a degree in Philosophy. For several years, he worked as a subcontract laborer and floor contractor, learning the construction industry and gaining a basic knowledge of customer service and the wood industry. In 2005, he started his own business. Realizing a need to continue learning and growing in his craft, he joined NWFA in 2009 and attended the Intermediate Sand & Finish school. Then he really kicked his training into high gear. The year 2016 was an especially busy year for Ben as he became a Bona Certified Craftsman, an NWFA Certified Installer, and an NWFA Certified Sand & Finisher. Ben attended the Advanced School in 2018 and also helped teach a new Basic Installation class in 2018 at NWFA. Ben is a volunteer seventh-grade teacher at his church’s Sunday school and is currently helping organize an enrichment group called Marriage on Tap.

34.

ReneeTester Senior Product & Marketing Manager, Flooring Division QEP/Harris Wood JOHNSON CITY, TENNESSEE harriswoodfloors.com

Renee began her career at The Home Depot where she worked for five years while pursuing a B.S. in Interior Design and Construction Management at East Tennessee State University. In 2007, she was hired as a Technical Services/Claims Manager for Harris Tarkett (later QEP). Over the next 11 years, she reinstated a technical service department and revamped the company's approach to design and trend research. By implementing industry guidelines and working with manufacturers to address customer concerns, she decreased claims by 4 percent. In 2013, she completed her MBA and is now Senior Product and Marketing Manager of QEP’s Flooring Division, leading a team that develops new products and marketing strategies. Renee is very active in her community. She advocates for the Hardwood Forest Foundation Truth About Trees Program, presenting programs to youth that emphasize responsible forestry practices. She is PTA President and volunteers at her daughters’ schools and Girl Scout Troops. She is a strong supporter of Niswonger Children's Hospital, has served on the East Tennessee State University Interior Design Advisory Board, and helps raise funds for local charities.

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