The HPBExpo25 Ultimate Awards Show celebrated the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industry with top honors across various categories. Immediately after the Ultimate Awards Show, we enjoyed live music and fun activities at the Bayou Bash Industry Party.
Special thanks to our Bayou Bash Industry Party sponsors: Titanium Sponsor Hearth & Home Technologies; Gold Sponsors ICC and Regency Fireplace Products; and Silver Sponsor Napoleon.
Congratulations to the 2025 Winners!
🏆 Emerging Leader – Kyle Titsworth
The Emerging Leader Award honors professionals with eight or fewer years in the industry who have shown remarkable impact and leadership potential. Kyle Titsworth, grew up in the family business but officially began in the industry just six years ago. Today, he’s grown from being part of a thriving retail business to leading it, overseeing installations, coordinating service, managing employees, and making strategic decisions. Beyond running his business, he also serves on the Board of Directors for his regional HPBA affiliate and is actively engaged in government affairs, tracking legislation that can impact the industry in multiple states.
🏆 Advocate of the Year – Edward Hosack and Daniel Hammer
The Advocate of the Year Award recognizes those who go above and beyond to serve as a voice for the industry in critical policymaking and inspire others to engage.
- Edward Hosack: With over two decades of advocacy, he has been instrumental in representing the industry’s interests, especially in the Northwest. His leadership in fighting the Washington State Gas Ban, building relationships with lawmakers, and mobilizing industry support has been extraordinary.
- Daniel Hammer: Known for his quick thinking and powerful advocacy, he demonstrated his expertise by successfully debating environmental activists in a televised event and strategizing against legislation that could restrict woodstove sales. His leadership on Senate Bill 5174 highlights his ability to translate complex issues into compelling advocacy.
🏆 Retailer of the Year – Karen DiVerdi
The Retailer of the Year Award honors individuals who have achieved business success and demonstrated leadership to strengthen the industry. For 23 years, Karen DiVerdi, owner of Enchanted Fireside, has built her business on quality, integrity, and service. She serves on the Northeast Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (NEHPBA) board, advocates for the industry, and teaches for the National Fireplace Institute.
🏆 Affiliate of the Year – HPBA Pacific
The highest honor given to an HPBA Affiliate, the Affiliate of the Year award recognizes an affiliate that excels in outreach, advocacy, and industry support. HPBA Pacific has revitalized engagement and connections under strong leadership, enhancing communication, expanding networking, hiring a lobbying firm, and tackling key legislative challenges to strengthen support across multiple states.
🏆 Lifetime Service Award – John Crouch and Cindy Wise
The Lifetime Service Award recognizes individuals whose commitment has defined and strengthened our industry – and this year, we celebrate a longtime HPBA staff member John Crouch.
- John Crouch: With over three decades of advocacy experience, he has been instrumental in bridging gaps between policymakers, industry professionals, and consumers. His mentorship has helped guide the careers of countless professionals across North America and empowered HPBA members to enter into the intricate world of regulation, emissions standards, and advocacy, preparing the next generation of industry leaders to carry the torch forward.
- Cindy Wise: Serving the Southeast Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (SEHPBA) for over 15 years, she has tirelessly worked to unite professionals across the industry. Her commitment to education, training, and providing essential resources has made a lasting impact. Whether she is organizing trainings to support businesses, or providing affiliate members with the resources they need , she does it with generosity, and a devoted heart that has lifted up so many among us.
🏆 Excellence in Education Award – Bob Wise
The Excellence in Education Award honors individuals who have spent over a decade elevating industry professionals through instruction, advocacy, and dedication to NFI Certification. Bob Wise, with more than 30 years of experience, has trained professionals in gas instruction, combustion, venting, and safety. Since 1999, he has led NFI certification courses at HPBExpo, significantly contributing to the industry’s growth and elevating professionals nationwide.
🏆 Trainer of the Year Award – Jesse Doucette
The Trainer of the Year Award honors an instructor who taught at least 10 industry-related courses, encourages NFI Certification, and/or taught NFI Review courses. With over 20 years of experience in chimney construction, repair, restoration, and business development, Jesse Doucette has shown a passion for education by preparing professionals for NFI Certification and serving on various committees and boards. His dedication to mentorship and excellence has earned him widespread recognition.
🏆 Attendees’ Choice Awards
These awards recognize the most exciting and innovative products showcased at HPBExpo25’s New Product Pavilion, voted on by attendees.
- Barbecue: TempTong, F & C Distributors
- Outdoor Living: Alogfire by Flame King
- Hearth: DaVinci GreenSmart Electric Fireplace by Travis Industries
This year, we introduced an exciting new category amongst all exhibitors: the Best Booth Experience Award. This honor recognizes the exhibitor who delivers the most engaging and memorable booth experience for attendees. The winning booth stood out with its dynamic, interactive displays that invited visitors to explore products in an immersive way—creating a lasting impression long after they left the show floor
- Best Booth Experience: Travis Industries