AWFS® Honored by Vital Link for Advancing Workforce Development and Industry-Education Connections
Anaheim, CA (August 8, 2025) – The Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers® (AWFS®) is proud to be recognized by Southern California nonprofit Vital Link for the Association’s outstanding contributions to education, workforce development, and strengthening the connection between industry and education. This recognition will take place at Vital Link’s Empowering Futures fundraising event in Irvine, CA on September 13, 2025.
Vital Link engages thousands of students each year through hands-on career exploration programs that introduce them to high-demand fields, including the skilled trades. AWFS® is honored to support this mission by collaborating with educators, schools, and workforce partners to expand awareness and career opportunities in wood manufacturing.
Through its initiatives, AWFS® provides critical resources to students and teachers, including:
AWFS® has partnered with Vital Link over the past two years to support regional career fairs, facility tours, student competitions, and other events that introduce young people to rewarding careers in the wood manufacturing industry. The Society of Wood Manufacturing (SWM), the volunteer chapter of AWFS®, has played an active role in these efforts by volunteering, exhibiting, and engaging with students at Vital Link events across the region.
The Empowering Futures event celebrates the impact of students, educators, volunteers, and industry members working to build a strong skilled workforce. This unique evening includes a student showcase, networking dinner, and opportunities to support Vital Link’s ongoing work. AWFS® is being awarded Vital Link’s Business of the Year honor.
AWFS® is deeply grateful for its partnership with Vital Link and remains committed to supporting the next generation of wood industry professionals.
To attend or support the Empowering Futures event, visit https://vitallink.org/empoweringfutures.
All Inquiries, Contact:
Tovi Spero
Education Director, AWFS®
(323) 215-0311
About AWFS®:
AWFS® is the United States’ largest trade association representing the interests of the broad array of companies that supply the home and commercial furnishings industry. With initiatives in education, public policy, and sustainability, AWFS® works for the good of its members and the wood manufacturing industry as a whole.
For more information on the AWFS, please visit awfs.org.
About AWFS®Fair:
Scheduled for July 13-16, 2027, in Las Vegas, the AWFS®Fair is a premier international event in the woodworking industry, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers to showcase the latest innovations.
For more information on the AWFS®Fair, please visit AWFSFair.org.
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