CARIBOU, Maine — Clara Collins, operations manager at S.W. Collins Company, has been honored with the prestigious ‘Rising Star’ Award by HBS Dealer Magazine at a recent awards ceremony held in Chicago. HBS Dealer and its industry partners have stepped up to promote the role of women in the hardware and building supply industry. Individuals are nominated by their peers and selected by a panel of judges based on their contributions and attributes that go above and beyond the call of duty.
The ‘Rising Star’ Award from HBS Dealer is a testament to Collins’ exceptional achievements and her potential to shape the future and best practices of all five S.W. Collins retail locations and three specialty businesses. This recognition reflects her dedication to continuous learning, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence, which are values closely aligned with the ethos of HBS Dealer.
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized alongside so many incredible women in the industry. It is encouraging to see how women are growing and leading in our industry,” said Collins. “The Top Women event was a wonderful experience, and I am excited to see how it continues to evolve and grow for many years to come.”
“With a record number of nominations, the task of selecting the 2023 class of Top Women was very difficult,” said Amy Grant, associate publisher of HBS Dealer. “We are thrilled that so many people participated in the process. The end result is a special group of high performing leaders and rising stars who will shape this industry for years to come.”
In 2020, Collins became part of the sixth generation to join her family’s business after graduating from Northeastern with a BSBA with concentrations in finance and supply chain management and working in the industry. Collins’ passion for fostering strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and team members has been a driving force behind her success. Her ability to identify market trends, adapt to evolving customer preferences, and implement effective business strategies has established her as a visionary leader and a role model for aspiring professionals in the hardware retail sector.
HBS Dealer is a leading publication and platform dedicated to the hardware and building supply industry. Recognizing excellence and innovation, HBS Dealer Awards celebrate outstanding individuals who make significant contributions to the sector’s advancement.
S.W. Collins Co. is a well-established Maine lumber and building supply dealer with retail locations in Lincoln, Houlton, Presque Isle, Caribou, and Fort Kent. The company also has a millwork shop, a Kitchen and Bath Design Center, and an Outdoor Sporting Goods store. Since its inception in 1844, the company has been committed to offering excellent products and legendary service.
