Maria Ford of Stanley Black & Decker Joins Forbes Council to Empower Skilled Trades
- Maria Ford, President of DEWALT, joins Forbes Business Development Council, highlighting her leadership in Stanley Black & Decker.
- Ford has been with Stanley Black & Decker since 1998, leading DEWALT's $2 billion U.S. Commercial & Industrial Sales division.
- Her advocacy for skilled trades and engagement with young professionals aim to inspire the next generation in the industry.
Empowering the Future of Skilled Trades: Maria Ford Joins Forbes Business Development Council
Maria Ford, the President of U.S. Commercial & Industrial Sales at DEWALT, a subsidiary of Stanley Black & Decker, receives notable recognition by being selected to join the Forbes Business Development Council. This prestigious group comprises senior-level executives from various industries, highlighting Ford’s extensive experience and her ability to successfully drive business growth within the competitive landscape of the tools and equipment sector. Her inclusion in the Council allows her to network with other leaders, sharing insights and discussing emerging trends and challenges in business development through Forbes.com.
Ford’s journey within Stanley Black & Decker began in 1998 as an intern, showcasing her long-standing commitment to the company and the industry. Over the years, she has successfully navigated through various roles in sales and marketing, culminating in her leadership of DEWALT’s $2 billion U.S. Commercial & Industrial Sales division. Under her guidance, DEWALT strengthens its position as a leader in providing innovative jobsite solutions, catering to both professionals and emerging tradespeople. Ford’s focus on collaboration with major trade associations, contractors, and distribution partners is instrumental in expanding the brand's reach and impact in the skilled trades sector.
A passionate advocate for the skilled trades, Ford actively inspires the next generation of tradespeople. Her keynote speech at the NABTU's Tradeswomen Build Nations event, the largest gathering of tradeswomen globally, reflects her dedication to promoting careers in this vital industry. By engaging with young professionals and fostering industry connections, Ford plays a crucial role in shaping the future workforce and ensuring that the skilled trades remain a viable and respected career choice. Her leadership and commitment to empowering professionals not only enhance DEWALT's brand reputation but also contribute to the broader goal of revitalizing interest in the trades.
In addition to her responsibilities at DEWALT, Ford’s role in the Forbes Business Development Council emphasizes the importance of strategic networking and knowledge sharing among industry leaders. This engagement provides her with a platform to influence broader industry dialogues on best practices and emerging challenges.
Through her unwavering commitment to the skilled trades and her leadership at DEWALT, Maria Ford exemplifies the attributes necessary to drive meaningful change and inspire the next generation of tradespeople, securing a prosperous future for the industry.
