EIGHTY FOUR, Pa. (May 01, 2026) – 84 Lumber is proud to recognize and honor the service of its associate military veterans Matt Hime, an outside sales coordinator at its Sarasota, Florida location, and Joe Stewart, a manager trainee at its Guilderland, New York store. In recognition of National Military Appreciation Month, the company is highlighting the importance of hiring and supporting veterans.
According to the Department of Labor, roughly 200,000 military members transition out of the armed services each year. Many face challenges when reentering the workforce, including navigating the civilian job market and finding meaningful career opportunities.
A survey of 1,000 U.S. military veterans found that respondents face an average of three major challenges during this transition. Finding a job ranked as the top hurdle, with 33 percent citing it as their biggest obstacle. Other challenges included leaving behind military relationships and finding a purposeful career (28 percent each).
At 84 Lumber, veterans play a significant role in the company’s success. Their leadership, discipline, and commitment to excellence closely align with the company’s culture and values.
USING MILITARY SKILLS IN CIVILIAN EMPLOYMENT
Hime brings a wealth of experience rooted in both craftsmanship and military service. He served as an engineer in the U.S. Navy, completing deployments aboard the USS Nashville, USS Shreveport, and USS Farragut during Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his service, he earned a business degree and built a diverse career spanning marketing and luxury yacht construction before joining 84 Lumber in 2018.
“Veterans bring discipline, accountability, and a strong work ethic,” said Hime. “We’re used to working as a team, adapting to challenges, and staying focused on the mission, qualities that translate directly into success here.”
Stewart, a manager trainee in the company’s Albany market, began his military journey at 17, enlisting as an engineer in 2017. After serving until 2021, he transitioned back to civilian life, returning to his roots in construction and farming while navigating the challenges of reintegration.
“Transitioning wasn’t always easy, especially adjusting to a completely different environment,” said Stewart. “But finding a place like 84 Lumber has given me the opportunity to grow, stay focused, and build a future.”
Both Hime and Stewart emphasize the strong alignment between military experience and careers in the building materials industry. Skills such as teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and accountability position veterans for long-term success.
“Veterans have a strong foundation in communication, respect, and leadership,” added Stewart. “That mindset carries over into everything we do.”
As a company founded on hard work and opportunity, 84 Lumber continues to foster an environment where veterans can thrive. Through structured career paths, supportive leadership, and a culture rooted in teamwork, the company empowers veterans to build meaningful, long-term careers.
“84 Lumber has a deep appreciation for the sacrifices our veterans have made,” said Maggie Hardy, owner and CEO of 84 Lumber. “Operation Appreciation is one way we recognize their service and celebrate the value they bring to our company and communities every day.”
For veterans considering a career in construction, both associates offer similar advice: be ready to work hard, stay open to learning, and embrace opportunities for growth.
“Come prepared and willing to learn,” said Stewart. “The rest comes with time.”
“Stay disciplined, ask questions, and stay consistent,” added Hime. “If you put in the effort, you can build a solid career.”
84 LUMBER OPERATION APPRECIATION
Throughout Military Appreciation Month, 84 Lumber will partner with organizations to provide support and resources to veterans in the communities it serves.
At the local level, associates who are veterans or active-duty service members receive an additional paid day off to use on a veteran-related holiday, such as Veterans Day or Memorial Day. Associates nationwide will also receive a custom Operation Appreciation T-shirt.
In addition, 84 Lumber is honoring veterans with a 20 percent discount for all military personnel and first responders. The company also designates purple parking spots at its stores nationwide for combat-wounded veterans.
84 Lumber is the leading supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company currently operates 320 facilities in 34 states which include stores, component manufacturing plants, engineered wood product (EWP) centers and door shops. To learn more, visit www.84Lumber.com or follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. For career opportunities, visit www.84Lumber.com/careers.
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ABOUT 84 LUMBER
Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Co. is the nation’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for residential and commercial construction. In 2026, the company celebrates its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of serving customers, building communities, and delivering the American Dream nationwide. 84 Lumber operates 320 facilities in 34 states and provides turnkey installation services across a wide range of product categories.
A certified women’s business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy, 84 Lumber has been named one of Newsweek’s Most Trustworthy Companies in America for three consecutive years (2024–2026) and was also recognized on Newsweek’s Most Patriotic Companies in America 2026 list. The company has been included on Forbes’ list of America’s Top Private Companies from 2019 through 2025. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.