Maria Ford Appointed to Forbes Business Development Council
Summary
Maria Ford, President of U.S. Commercial & Industrial Sales for DEWALT (Stanley Black & Decker), has joined the Forbes Business Development Council. This appointment highlights her role in addressing critical construction industry issues and empowering future tradespeople. For investors, it signifies Stanley Black & Decker's strategic engagement in key markets and proactive approach to industry trends, positioning the company for long-term growth amidst infrastructure spending and skilled labor initiatives.
Maria Ford Appointed to Forbes Business Development Council: A Strategic Move for DEWALT and the Construction Industry
TOWSON, Md. – July 14, 2025 – In a significant development for the construction and industrial sectors, DEWALT, a leading brand under Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK), today announced that Maria Ford, its President of U.S. Commercial & Industrial Sales, has been invited to join the prestigious Forbes Business Development Council. This exclusive community comprises senior-level sales and business development executives, offering a unique platform for industry leaders to collaborate, share insights, and shape the future of their respective fields.
Ford's appointment is a testament to her extensive experience and leadership in driving growth and innovation within the commercial and industrial sales landscape. Her role on the Council will specifically focus on addressing critical issues impacting the construction industry, a sector currently undergoing significant transformation driven by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and a persistent demand for skilled labor. Her insights will be invaluable in discussions surrounding market trends, supply chain dynamics, and strategies for fostering sustainable growth.
Empowering the Next Generation of Tradespeople
A key area of focus for Maria Ford within the Forbes Business Development Council will be empowering the next generation of tradespeople. The construction industry faces a well-documented skilled labor shortage, a challenge that threatens project timelines and overall economic growth. Ford's involvement will likely lead to discussions and initiatives aimed at attracting, training, and retaining talent in the trades. This includes advocating for vocational education, promoting apprenticeship programs, and highlighting the rewarding career paths available within the construction and industrial sectors. DEWALT, through its comprehensive jobsite solutions, is already deeply invested in supporting tradespeople, and Ford's position on the Council will amplify these efforts.
Market Implications and Investment Insights
Maria Ford's appointment to such a prominent council underscores Stanley Black & Decker's commitment to thought leadership and strategic engagement within its core markets. For investors, this move signals a proactive approach to understanding and influencing the broader economic landscape that impacts DEWALT's performance. The construction industry, while cyclical, is poised for long-term growth driven by infrastructure spending, residential development, and industrial expansion. Companies like Stanley Black & Decker, with strong brand recognition and a focus on innovation, are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends.
Investors should view this development as a positive indicator of Stanley Black & Decker's strategic foresight. Ford's participation in the Forbes Business Development Council provides a direct channel for DEWALT to gain early insights into emerging market challenges and opportunities, potentially leading to more agile product development and sales strategies. Furthermore, her advocacy for tradespeople aligns with broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, as investing in workforce development contributes to social sustainability and long-term economic stability.
The Forbes Business Development Council: A Platform for Influence
The Forbes Business Development Council is an invitation-only organization for senior-level executives in business development, sales, and marketing. Members are selected based on their depth and diversity of experience, and their willingness to share insights and contribute to the professional growth of the community. This platform allows members to publish original articles on Forbes.com, participate in expert panels, and connect with peers, further solidifying their influence within their respective industries. Ford's presence on this council elevates DEWALT's visibility and influence within the broader business community, extending beyond its traditional customer base.
This strategic appointment not only highlights Maria Ford's individual achievements but also reinforces DEWALT's and Stanley Black & Decker's commitment to leading the conversation on critical industry matters. As the construction sector continues to evolve, the insights and initiatives stemming from such high-level collaborations will be crucial for navigating challenges and unlocking new opportunities. For investors, this translates into a company that is actively engaged in shaping its future market environment, a positive sign for long-term value creation.