Galen Fitzel, technical service specialist at 3M prior to his retirement, has been awarded the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) Industry Leadership Award. The Leadership Award is to recognize individuals who make significant contributions to the wood flooring industry through service and leadership. Recipients must have completed seven year’s minimum service within the wood flooring industry and have demonstrated professionalism, ethics, and integrity, as well as contributed significantly to advancing the industry.

Galen served on the NWFA Board of Directors from 1998-2007 as well as several NWFA committees. During his over 35 years in the industry, he has helped train hundreds of students in wood flooring safety and sanding techniques, improving technical skills and the wood flooring industry as a whole.

“Galen started his career as a wood shop teacher in his local school district,” said Jim Schumacher, account executive at 3M. “Since then, he has dedicated himself to improving the sanding process. His impact has influenced countless wood flooring professionals. He has selflessly given both his time and expertise to a number of wood flooring professionals, many of whom continue to call on his counsel, even after he has retired.”

For more information, visit www.nwfa.org.