This year was the first-ever Emerging Leaders in Restoration award, and after reading through dozens of nominations, we can assure you of one thing: the future of our industry is in very good hands. We were blown away by all the talent, passion, and innovation from young professionals in restoration across the country.
And the timing couldn’t be more perfect. With disaster events on the rise and a labor shortage that’s becoming even more urgent (a report by Associated Builders and Contractors anticipates nearly half a million new workers will be needed in 2025 alone), the demand for restoration services is higher than ever.
The good news? The next generation is already stepping up. These leaders are not only championing innovation in the industry, they’re raising up new leaders, giving back to their communities, and shaping the culture of their workplaces for the better.
So, without further ado, meet our Emerging Leaders in Restoration 2025 award winners!
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
This work perfectly blends everything I’m passionate about: marketing, sales, and the satisfaction of building genuine connections. Every day is a dynamic mix of tackling existing challenges and embracing new ones, making it endlessly engaging.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
At 21, fresh out of college, I landed a real estate job that threw me straight into the fire: cold calling and door knocking, trying to drum up listings. My first day was a brutal baptism. 75+ doors slammed in my face, and by evening, I was shattered. On my way home, I went past my parents’ house for dinner, defeated, and recounted the day’s horrors. Instead of coddling me, my dad did something that changed my life. He bundled me into the car and drove me back to the very neighborhoods where I’d been so thoroughly rejected. He said, ‘‘If it were easy, everyone would do it, and if you’re going to do it, do it properly and make sure you win.’ We spent hours that night walking those same streets, knocking on those same doors until we finally did win. That lesson, forged in the crucible of that night, has stayed with me for 15 years. It’s the fuel that drives me every single day.
3. What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
I recently completed a course in Viticulture (Growing of Wine Grapes) and volunteered at local wineries, helping them with their groundswork and vine maintenance.
4. What advice would you give to others under 40 looking to make an impact in restoration?
Our industry sees a constant ebb and flow of people, but those who truly rise and leave a lasting mark share a common trait: unwavering commitment. They honor their promises and consistently deliver. Ultimately, success hinges on doing what you say you’ll do and exceeding expectations.
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
What initially drew me to the restoration industry were the people. I had no prior experience in this field, so everything about restoration was entirely new to me. However, it quickly became clear that what made this industry special wasn’t just the work—it was the people. That remains true today, and is the same reason I’ve stayed in restoration.
This industry is not for the faint of heart. It can demand early mornings, late nights, and the ability to adapt when catastrophe strikes—often requiring everyone to step outside their usual roles to get the job done and get it done with excellence. But what makes it all worthwhile is the opportunity to serve. For me, that service happens through technology—leveraging systems, tools, and innovations that empower our teams to work smarter, communicate more effectively, and ultimately provide better service to our customers. In an industry where every second counts, the right technology can mean the difference between chaos and clarity, between frustration and efficiency. Even the best tools mean nothing without the right people using them. Supporting and equipping our team members to do what they do best—to restore not just properties but peace of mind for those experiencing some of their worst days—is what keeps me coming back every single day.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Someone who has profoundly shaped my life—professionally, personally, and spiritually—is Trent Anderson, President & COO of Southeast Restoration. His influence has been a constant reminder that “you take you with you wherever you go,” emphasizing the importance of character and consistency in all aspects of life. He also instilled in me a powerful lesson from Dabo Swinney: “Do what I can, while I can, so that when I cannot, I will not wish that I would have when I could have.” These words have become a guiding principle, driving me to lead with purpose, coach with intention, and invest in others with unwavering commitment.
3. What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
As a technologist, people assume I spend my weekends buried in algorithms, not ankle-deep in, well… mud. But, surprise—I live on a small farm in North Georgia. On weekdays, I navigate networks and troubleshoot tech issues, but come the weekend, I trade my high heels for rubber boots and my laptop for a feed bucket. My husband, our two boys, and I share our little slice of farmland with an ever-entertaining cast of pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks. I’ve learned that goats have zero respect for personal space, chickens are master escape artists, and pigs? Let’s just say they live up to their reputation. I’ve also become an unofficial farm nurse, having nursed a tiny runt back to health—think IT troubleshooting but with more cuddles and a lot less Wi-Fi. Life on the farm keeps me grounded (literally and figuratively), proving that whether it’s technology or tending animals, problem-solving is just part of the job!
4. What advice would you give to others under 40 looking to make an impact in restoration?
For those under 40 looking to make an impact in the restoration industry, I’d offer this advice: Prepare relentlessly, stay adaptable, and maximize your current opportunities. Abraham Lincoln’s quote, “If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening the axe,” perfectly illustrates the importance of preparation. In restoration, success doesn’t come from just swinging hammers harder—it comes from refining your skills, deepening your knowledge, and building strong relationships before the big moments arrive. Invest in learning, seek mentorship, and master the fundamentals so that when challenges come, you’re ready to execute with precision.
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
When I got home from my two-year church mission, I was offered a job in my family’s restoration business. Honestly, I had always planned on doing something else—but it paid decently, came with a truck, and gave me a place to land while I figured out what I really wanted.
What made me stay was the challenge. Restoration is constantly evolving. Every day brings a new problem to solve, a new way to improve how we work, and a new opportunity to serve people better. I don’t know how anyone could get bored or want to leave. I’ve also fallen in love with the business side—finding ways to make things more efficient, more profitable, and more impactful for the customer.
But more than anything, I’ve stayed because of the community. This industry attracts hardworking, down-to-earth, determined people. Being surrounded by them has made me better and given real purpose to my life. The clients we serve—often at their lowest—trust us to help them get back on their feet. I find it easy to be a superhero and make a difference in their lives every day. That’s what makes the work meaningful. I’ll never get tired of it.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
My parents raised us on the motto: “Work Hard, Play Hard, Pray Hard.” It’s simple, but it’s shaped how I live and lead every day.
I find real satisfaction in working hard. Growing up, I learned from my dad the value of a job well done and the importance of serving others. That effort creates the opportunity and freedom to play hard. We’ve spent countless days snowmobiling, dirt biking, and wake surfing—basically anything outdoors. Now, I get to share that with my little family. I’ve realized I need to play at least once a week to stay grounded and show up 100% in other areas of life.
And most importantly, pray hard. Taking time to reflect, connect with God, and gain perspective brings humility and gratitude that helps me lead with purpose and empathy. That balance keeps me rooted in what matters most and focused on a bigger purpose.
3. What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
I’ve never broken a bone! Considering how often I’m on snowmobiles and dirt bikes, that’s honestly unbelievable. Between rocky single-track, numerous wipeouts, and some questionable decisions, I should’ve had a few ER visits by now. Somehow, I keep walking away. Either I’m incredibly lucky—or just too stubborn to break.
4. What advice would you give to others under 40 looking to make an impact in restoration?
If you want to make a real impact in restoration, start with people. Take care of them, listen to them, and lead by example—no title required. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, respect you, and push you to grow. People! People! People! This business runs on relationships. Lead well, and the results will follow.
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
It was my dad, actually. If you would have told me I would be working with my dad 10 years ago, I would have thought you were lying! This industry is ripe for multi-generational restorers with the influx of technology. But what made me stay was the opportunity to work in an industry where I can serve the teammates who serve our customers. Our team sacrifices so much on a daily basis to ensure that our customers are provided the Thomasville Touch, so I feel honored to be able to create a place where they truly love where they work and identify so deeply with the brand.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best gift you can provide someone is the gift of understanding. It is to understand someone so deeply that you can surprise and delight them. People want to be seen, known, and cared for above all else. Thank you, Gina Fong.
3. What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
I am a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Anne Arundel County, Maryland (or CASA for short). My volunteer role allows me to advocate in the court system for children who have been removed from their homes and placed in foster care due to abuse or neglect. I am truly passionate about this because I have a chance to form a relationship with these kiddos and become another person in their village who they can trust and rely on. If there were ever a charity I would encourage people to get behind, it would be CASA.
4. What advice would you give to others under 40 looking to make an impact in restoration?
Find a company that helps you see that what you are doing is so much bigger than restoration. You are helping families put their homes and lives back together after a disaster. It is so easy to become numb to monotony, but if you find yourself at a company that always reminds you that you are making a difference in others’ lives, it will never feel like work.
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
As a 3rd generation restorer, I didn’t have much choice when it came to being drawn into the industry; I was 16 when I worked on my first water damage project. The rewarding nature of addressing the unique challenges and needs of each project or client is what made me stay. There is never a dull moment in this industry.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was younger, I was told by multiple people to bring alternative solutions to the table rather than just being critical of others’ opinions. This advice did not immediately take hold, but over time, I have come to realize how important that approach can be when trying to effect change on contentious topics.
3. What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
Gardening has evolved into an unexpected hobby for me.
4. What advice would you give to others under 40 looking to make an impact in restoration?
This industry is not as mature as it seems, and a healthy level of skepticism is warranted. Never stop learning, and don’t be afraid to ask simple questions about complex issues or new “solutions” to industry problems. In another 10-15 years, we will certainly look back on this time and wonder how we were so naive about some of the fundamentals that drive this industry. That change in perspective over time will not be driven by complacency.
Lauren Etherington
Lauren has been utilizing her writing expertise as C&R Magazine’s Associate Editor since 2023. After gaining a degree in legal studies, she ultimately chose to channel her writing capabilities to help support small businesses in the construction and restoration industries with their marketing efforts. Her ability to ask insightful questions helps uncover the core essence of each business, generating content that enhances brand identity and fosters genuine connections. Lauren calls Des Moines, Iowa home, where she resides with her husband and three children.
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