Ep. 49 - Legacy, Leadership & Lumber — BJ Louws on Building Smarter

In this episode of Born or Made, we turn our focus to the world of construction, innovation, and multigenerational leadership with BJ Louws, third-generation President of Louws Truss Inc.BJ’s journey blends deep-rooted family legacy with forward-thinking leadership. After earning degrees in Economics and Business Administration from Seattle Pacific University and gaining experience in finance and the lumber industry, BJ returned to lead his family’s business—bringing a modern edge to traditional manufacturing. Under his leadership, Louws Truss has embraced robotics, lean manufacturing, and industry-wide collaboration to transform how structural building components are produced.Episode Highlights:What it means to lead a third-generation business in a modern economyHow robotics and lean systems are reshaping the construction worldThe role of legacy vs. innovation in building a sustainable businessBJ’s leadership on regional and national building boardsFinding balance between business, family, and the great outdoorsFrom the shop floor to the ski slopes, BJ Louws brings both grit and vision to everything he builds. But is his leadership instinct something that runs in the blood—or forged through experience? Tune in to find out.