Our Excellence Begins with Our People and Our Passion
The people who make up the MWW extended family, from our earliest employees eight decades ago to those that work with us today, are the driving force behind the quality we provide. That’s the spirit behind our family-run business, one that has been an integral part of the community as far back as anyone can remember. In short, it’s our passion for our jobs, for creative solutions, for excellence, that has driven us, generation after generation, to providing you with the best possible service.Third Generation Family Owned Business
Molly and her brother Travis purchased the company in 2008 from their parents and have served as co-president since then. "The world is much different from when Tom Oates began Manual Woodworkers. However, our commitment to valuing our people, investing in technology, and giving our customers exactly what they want remains the same. It’s those principles that will help us grow into the next generation… and all the generations to come." - Travis Oates
Travis Oates, Co-Owner
Now part of the third-generation leadership of MWW Inc., Travis Oates never doubted his career aspirations. After graduating from Edneyville High School and earning his bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Technology from Appalachian State University in 1997, Travis began working with MWW as a Production Control Director. In that role, he spearheaded streamlining the company’s production-planning and order-management systems. After this success, he took over as the company’s Director of Operations, where he oversaw the building of a new distribution center, as well as the rollout of an upgraded distribution system. He then served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer, before purchasing the company with his sister Molly in 2008. Travis is now the Co-Owner of MWW ON DEMAND.
Molly Sherrill Oates, Co-Owner
After graduating from Appalachian State in 2001 with a degree in business management, Molly Sherrill returned to MWW Inc. to work in strategic product development and new product functions. Molly relished the role. “I love the logistical things…getting customer feedback, and strategizing how to alter plans for each year.” Under Molly’s leadership, the company increased the offerings of imported products to its slate of domestically-manufactured items, greatly expanding the company’s product choices to its customers. Molly is the Co-Owner of the Manual Gift and Home division.