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Join Mandy Wozniak, Lead Designer & Owner, Salix Studio, as she talks about her fun, inspirational and career-changing moments at KBIS.

By Elisa Fernández-Arias

Mandy Wozniak, Lead Designer & Owner, Salix Studio and one of NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 Class of 2023, is a rising star in the K&B industry. In her early twenties, Wozniak has already started her own business, earned second place in the kitchen category in NKBA’s Student Design Competition, and completed her BA in Design at Yorkville University and her Design Technology Diploma at Lakeland College. Throughout her education and career, Wozniak has demonstrated her commitment to the kitchen and bath industry, as well as the great potential that her future holds.

Wozniak has attended KBIS not only once, but twice — the first time on her own, and the second with the Thirty Under 30 Program. NKBA sat with Wozniak to learn about her experiences at KBIS and what impact it has had on her career. Keep reading to relive KBIS through her eyes, and to get excited for the upcoming trade show in 2024!

NKBA: Can you tell us a little bit about your experiences at KBIS?

Wozniak: The first time I attended KBIS was in 2019, when I received the 2nd place award in the kitchen category in the Student Design Competition. Attending as a student, and then again as a Thirty Under 30, was really a full circle moment for me. Both experiences were equally as enjoyable and motivating. I remember as a student telling myself, “One day I am going to be part of the Thirty Under 30 class.” And now, coming back as a Thirty, I have even bigger goals. NKBA provides the right tools and support to enable industry professionals to continually excel — and both Thirty Under 30 and KBIS are two of the many ways the association does that!

“NKBA provides the right tools and support to enable industry professionals to continually excel — and both Thirty Under 30 and KBIS are two of the many ways the association does that!”

NKBA: What is your favorite KBIS memory?

Wozniak: My favorite memory of KBIS 2023 was creating friendships through the Thirty Under 30 program. Connecting on a personal level while touring through various booths, enjoying meals together and attending events was unforgettable. The bonds formed through this experience will always be cherished and memorable in so many ways. Strong friendships were something very unexpected, yet they ended up being one of my favorite aspects of the program.

NKBA: What Thirty Under 30 programming at KBIS was the most positive for you?

Wozniak: The most positive Thirty Under 30 programming at KBIS for me was the Past President and 30 Under 30 Luncheon. Having the opportunity to connect with leaders in the kitchen and bath industry was both inspirational and informative. It was at this event that I fully realized the significance of being part of the Thirty Under 30 program and understood the value of the role we play. Hearing stories from past Thirty Under 30 classes as well as NKBA leaders was informative and uplifting. To top it off, the food was delicious! I am extremely grateful for such a well-rounded experience and appreciate how NKBA builds foundations for success.

Want to have your own KBIS experience? KBIS 2024 will be taking place Feb. 27-29 in Las Vegas. NKBA members get to register for free through the month of September — so register today!