Q&A with Shawn Klysen, Senior Sales Advisor, Minnesota Door Division

January 30th, 2025 by Caleb Krugman

As part of Lumbermen’s exciting expansion of Door Manufacturing and Distribution operations in Minnesota, we were thrilled to welcome Shawn Klysen to our team as Senior Sales Advisor in December. With over 39 years of experience in the building materials industry and a deep understanding of the Minnesota market, Shawn’s unmatched expertise and passion make him an invaluable asset in ensuring the success of this endeavor.

Shawn’s career highlights include 21 years at Millwork Distributors, Inc. and 12 years at Fortune Brands Innovation, where he specialized in industry-leading products like Therma-Tru Doors, Fypon, Larson Storm Doors, and Veris. This deep connection with Therma-Tru, paired with over two decades of Lumbermen’s partnership with the brand, sets the stage for a seamless expansion. Joining Shawn on this journey, our expanded offerings will also feature exceptional products from Neuma, Gerkin, Larson, and FrontLine® Building Products Inc.

In this Q&A, Shawn shares his insights on the industry, his plans for driving success in Minnesota, and what excites him most about joining the Lumbermen’s family.

Q:   What are you most excited about with your new role?

A:   “There are several factors that interested me in this role with Lumbermen’s. For me, one of the of the key factors of this role is the ability to leverage my passion, aptitude, and experience to contribute to the successful launch of an exterior door program in Minnesota. This position will allow me the capacity to work more closely with those customers that I have partnered with over the years, as well as develop new relationships. I look forward in earning the trust our clients by exceeding expectations.”

Q:   What do you think Lumbermen’s has to offer Door Dealers in Minnesota?

A:   “Lumbermen’s is extending an accomplished record of success in exterior door system fabrication, support, and supply. The Lumbermen’s team places a priority on product training for your team members to establish their confidence and success with entry door sales. A core emphasis on the ease of doing business integrated with the compelling qualities of Therma Tru door exterior systems will surely be a winning formula for Minnesota. Lastly, the collaborative culture of Lumbermen’s will ensure clients will have input on the products and options that best meet their needs.”

Q:   What will be your first step/priority be with this new role?

A:   On day one, my primary objective will be centered upon listening and learning from our Minnesota clients. We will immediately endeavor to engage our dealer network to make certain that we launch a complete exterior door systems platform that meets the needs of our customers. Our priority will be centered upon having the right products complimented with the most demanded options readily available to consistently meet our lead time commitments.

With Lumbermen’s expansion into Minnesota, Shawn Klysen’s leadership and expertise will play a crucial role in establishing a strong foundation for our exterior door program. His deep industry knowledge, commitment to customer relationships, and strategic approach to product offerings align perfectly with our mission to deliver high-quality solutions with exceptional service. We are excited for the opportunities ahead and look forward to the success this expansion will bring to our valued dealer network in Minnesota.

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