Celebrating Leadership and Legacy, NAW Women in Distribution Honoree

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) is the leading national trade association representing wholesale distributors across the United States. For generations, NAW has played a huge role in advancing the distribution industry through advocacy, education, research, and leadership development. One of its most impactful initiatives is the Women In Distribution (WID), which shines a spotlight on women who are shaping the future of the channel.

Presented by Modern Distribution Management (MDM), the NAW Women In Distribution Honoree Series recognizes women leaders whose careers, values, and influence strengthen both their organizations and the industry as a whole.

We are proud to share that our CEO, Tina Hueppe, has been named a 2026 NAW Women In Distribution Honoree!

The NAW Women In Distribution Honoree Series exists to celebrate leaders who are not only successful, but intentional—about people, culture, and the future of the industry. Tina exemplifies that mission through her career, leadership, and dedication to giving back.

We are honored to see her recognized among the women shaping what distribution will look like for generations to come.

Congratulations, Tina! 

“She has quietly reengineered the company and built it into a world-class organization by combining cutting-edge technology with Midwestern family values.” — Frank Hurtte, Founder of River Heights Consulting

Copied from the NAW Website

How did you get into this industry?
“I was born into it. My dad started the business when I was 14, and instead of a typical after-school job, I was following up on sales leads, learning basic accounting, and tagging along on customer visits. He wanted me comfortable in a room full of business leaders early on. Over the years I’ve worked just about every position in the company, from delivery driver and warehouse packer to receptionist and customer service. It was the best hands-on education I could have asked for.”

Tina’s path reflects the essence of distribution—learning by doing, understanding every role, and building credibility through experience. That foundation continues to inform her leadership today.

What do you like most about your role in this industry?
“The people, without question. I love meeting everyone from industry veterans to brand new hires just starting out. Everyone has a story. One of my favorite parts of industry events is running into someone I met years ago and picking up right where we left off. It’s a big industry that somehow still feels small.”

This people-first mindset is central to Tina’s leadership philosophy and a defining characteristic of the distribution community.

What has been your most rewarding career experience?
“Taking over the company after my dad’s unexpected passing and growing it into what he always envisioned. It was both the hardest and most meaningful chapter of my career.”

Stepping into leadership during a period of loss required resilience, clarity, and courage—qualities that continue to shape the company’s direction and culture.

From your career, is there a company initiative or accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
“Leading a full restructuring of our company has been the most impactful initiative of my tenure. We implemented a formal strategic plan, built a strong core leadership team and defined clear core values. It required some difficult decisions, including parting ways with longtime employees and closing our value-added panel shop. None of it was easy, but it positioned us for sustainable growth and long-term success.”

This transformation laid the groundwork for long-term stability while aligning the organization around shared values and strategic intent.

Any other info we should know about your industry impact?
“I’ve served on several local nonprofit boards over the past 15 years because I believe strong businesses should support strong communities. Currently, I serve on the board of the Association for High Technology Distribution (AHTD) and lead the growth of its Women in Automation (WIA) group. Creating spaces where women can connect and grow in this industry is something I care deeply about.”

Tina’s commitment to mentorship, community involvement, and expanding opportunities for women underscores why she is so deserving of this recognition.