A past Thirty explains why young professionals should consider joining this elite program. By Loren Kessell
The NKBA Thirty Under 30 program offers both professional opportunities and the chance to join a tight-knit community.
Corbin Dickson, the owner and founder of Remodelers Warehouse in Augusta, Ga., was part of the Class of 2017. His experience as a winner heightened his career and provided him with lifelong friends who continue to help him grow and improve as a professional.
“I have made several good friends in this program who push me to get better every day,” Dickson said. “The term ‘iron sharpens iron’ is absolutely true.”
He chatted with NKBA about the program, his career and more.
Q: Did you always want to go into the design field? What made you choose the kitchen and bath industry?
CD: I spent a lot of time in the construction industry, so I was familiar with working on houses. I stumbled into the kitchen and bath field when I started my own business. I never intended to design kitchens for a living, but 3,000+ kitchens later, it has been great for me!
Q: What has the Thirty Under 30 award meant to you so far?
CD: It has been an honor! I have learned so many things throughout the years since joining the program in 2017. It means a lot that the NKBA invests the time and money for up-and-coming designers. I know that the investment in this program will pay dividends for years to come!
Q: What is one of the moments you’re most proud of so far in your career?
CD: Receiving the Thirty Under 30 was a super-proud moment for me. Also, a referral is a great achievement, because it means someone trusted you and was happy with your work. I love it when clients send me another client or a family member!
Q: What do you think are three key upcoming trends in kitchen and bath design/remodeling?
CD: Here are my top three picks: everyone wants maintenance-free, since life is busy and they don’t have time for upkeep; full-height backsplashes made from countertop material, and muted colors, which are very popular right now.
Q: What are some of your short-term and long-term goals?
CD: Short-term, I want to continue improving my business efficiency. I have started another business (Tree Nursery), so I am trying to improve my time-management skills. Long-term, I’m trying to set up my business to run itself so I can step back and spend more time with family. I hope to find a young person to train in the kitchen and bath business that can take over for me one day.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring kitchen and bath professionals, and why would you encourage them to consider the Thirty Under 30 program?
CD: I would tell them that hard work pays off. It may take years, but learn from your mistakes and start every day fresh. I encourage everyone to get involved in the Thirty Under 30 program if they can.
Submissions for the 2021 NKBA Thirty Under 30 program are open through Aug. 18. Candidates may be nominated by an industry peer or may nominate themselves. Award recipients receive a free trip to KBIS 2021, a KBIS show floor pass and conference pass, access to NKBA events, media exposure and awareness. For more information visit
