02/05/2026

Leading with purpose: Brian Wilson and his people-first approach

Brian Wilson leads with purpose, strengthening teams through steady leadership, a culture of accountability, and deep respect for the people who make the work possible.

For Brian Wilson, plant manager at the North Wilkesboro plant, leadership starts with people. He brings consistency, composure, and genuine care to the plant floor, believing that when employees feel supported and empowered, strong results naturally follow.

Safety as a shared mindset

At the North Wilkesboro facility, safety is more than a checklist. It’s a collective way of thinking. He emphasizes that “everyone is responsible not only for their own safety, but for the wellbeing of those around them, at work and beyond.”

By leading through example, Brian cultivates awareness, accountability and a sense of responsibility for one another. That mindset has helped build a culture where team members speak up, stay alert, and actively protect one another. Safety becomes personal when people care about the team beside them.

“When people look out for each other, safety becomes part of who you are, not just what you do,” Brian says.

Leadership in challenging moments

Manufacturing environments can move fast, but Brian believes leaders set the tone when pressure rises. Whether facing tight deadlines or unexpected challenges, he encourages his team to slow down, focus on what matters and rely on proven processes.

By creating a calm, grounded environment, he helps prevent kneejerk reactions and enables thoughtful decision making, even when conditions are demanding.

“Calm prevents panic,” he explains. “And better decisions follow.”

Developing leaders who lean in

Growing future leaders is a responsibility Brian takes seriously. He seeks out individuals who look beyond the present moment, articulate a clear vision and step into challenges with confidence.

For Brian, accountability is a powerful motivator, not a constraint. He values leaders who take ownership, embrace challenges, and build trust through consistency and follow through.

Innovation that drives better outcomes

Innovation under Brian’s leadership is focused on working smarter. Through material and process improvements, his team has reduced production steps, improved quality and increased efficiency.

These advancements come from collaboration, testing and the courage to challenge longstanding standards. Brian believes progress accelerates when teams are empowered to rethink the “why” behind the way work is done.

Investing in people every day

When asked what he finds most rewarding about his role, Brian doesn’t hesitate: it’s the people.  He credits the talent, collaboration and pride his team brings to their work as the foundation of the plant’s success.

That perspective reflects the JELD-WEN value Brian lives by every day: Invest in People.

“To build something that lasts, you have to invest in the people who make it possible,” he says.

For Brian, leadership isn’t about titles or metrics, it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe, supported and inspired to do their best work.