Sam is one of the most well-known expert speakers in the fencing industry - speaking and teaching at nearly every fence event and training seminar from coast to coast.

As the owner of DotCom (the fence industry's largest and most successful website design and digital marketing agency), Sam and his team of over 40 digital marketing experts work with an impressive list of fence-industry clients including the American Fence Association, Tony Thornton, Shawn King (Mr Fence), ActiveYards, several Master Halco brands, mySalesman, and over 150 "other" fence-industry related websites and over 100 fence contractors.

No one on the planet has more experience designing websites and managing digital marketing campaigns for the fence industry. Sam is eager to share his knowledge and experience hoping to help you answer the question: "Does Your Website Suck and Does Google Hate You?"

Shawn C. King, President and CEO of Mr. Fence Inc., is a pioneering leader in the fencing industry. Starting at 8 in his family's business, he led an installation crew before he could drive. By 22, he was one of the youngest Certified Fence Professionals in AFA history.

In 2002, he took over Dossett and Sons, transforming it into King Enterprises, later founding Mr. Fence in 2006. His ventures expanded to Deck-Pros, Stain-Pros, Mr. Fence Tools, and multiple fence companies. Passionate about innovation, he designs industry tools, trains contractors worldwide, and hosts seminars, including a three-day event in Australia.

A driving force in the industry, Shawn co-founded the Fence Professionals Network and speaks at AFA events. His motto, "Stop building fences like our grandad did and start building fences like our kids will," reflects his mission to push the industry forward through education, efficiency, and mentorship.

Neiko Guillory enlisted in the Air Force, rising through the ranks as a Tactical Air Control Party member. His military career was marked by several prestigious honors, including the Army and Air Force Commendation Medals. Notably, Neiko commanded a team of 52 personnel, orchestrating Close Air Support missions worth $2.1 billion, providing vital support to both US and NATO forces.

In 2019, Neiko transitioned from military service to pursue his electrical engineering degree. His journey took an unexpected turn in 2020 with the COVID-19 pandemic. He used his experience with lawn care and landscaping to form Neiko's Fencing & Landscaping.

Neiko first attended the Mr. Fence Academy Retreat in 2022. Armed with newfound skills, Neiko implemented changes that grew his by 646% in just two years and was awarded the 2023 Fence Contractor of the Year for the Grand Rapids area. After an offer to purchase Neiko's Fencing & Landscaping, Neiko embraced the role of Academy Director for Mr. Fence Academy.

Jorren Locher is a marketing expert and the owner of JRL Local, a dynamic media marketing company dedicated to helping brands thrive in the digital landscape.

He has helped brands scale to millions in revenue through video, design, and digital media-all strategically crafted to elevate brands and maximize online impact. Jorren is a passionate advocate for storytelling as the cornerstone of effective marketing. He believes that compelling narratives have the power to connect with audiences, build trust, and drive real business growth. By combining creativity with strategic marketing techniques, he helps businesses turn their messages into engaging content that resonates.

With a deep understanding of branding, content creation, and digital engagement, Jorren continues to lead JRL Local in crafting high-impact marketing campaigns that leave a lasting impression.

From the age of 15, Chris Gass had an undeniable drive to become his absolute best-starting with his physical fitness. But through the journey of marriage, fatherhood, and entrepreneurship, he realized that true growth goes far beyond physical appearance. It's a much deeper dive into self-alignment.

Chris has spent years refining self-taught concepts that keep both himself and others on the path of continuous improvement. His diverse background includes experiencing the absolute low of lows to building a life with the love of his life, fathering four children, owning a successful fence company, and excelling in the electric power industry. Through it all, he's learned that success in any area begins with aligning yourself from within.

Chris is passionate about sharing the lessons from his journey, equipping others to take charge of theirs. Buckle up-because he's here to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself.

I began my contracting journey at 15, building fences after school. My passion for craftsmanship led me to co-found a fencing company with my older brother in 2002. While we excelled in installations, we lacked business expertise and dissolved the company in 2012. Learning from past mistakes, I co-founded SWI, LLC, in 2014 with my younger brother, assembling a skilled team and prioritizing sustainable growth.

Since then, SWI has expanded to four locations-three in Wyoming and one in Florida. With over 30 years of industry experience, I've trained professionals through AFA-accredited programs and mentored aspiring fence company owners. My work with the AFA board reflects my commitment to advancing the industry.

In 2019, we launched the SWI Fence YouTube channel to share knowledge, helping homeowners and contractors take on new challenges. Seeing others grow-both in business and personally-fuels my passion. There's nothing more rewarding than empowering the next generation of industry leaders.

James Blaisdell, an MFA member since 2020, is an experienced fencing professional with over 20 years in the industry. He started in fencing by accident and quickly became proficient, challenging himself to continuously improve his products, installation, company, and client experience. His passion for the industry drives him to share his expertise and knowledge, believing in the power of collaboration for industry growth.

James has worked with various fencing materials, including vinyl, wood, and aluminum. He enjoys traveling and has visited 38 states, aiming to visit all of them. He finds joy in watching movies and appreciates the camaraderie and collective impact of being part of the MFA team. James's motto, "Create the purpose to get you through the circumstance," reflects his dedication to finding meaning and motivation amidst challenges. He is a dedicated family man with a wife, six children, and five grandchildren.

Born into the fence industry.

Second-generation family-owned and operated fence business.

40 years in business.

I also have The Fence Industry Podcast, the #1 Fence Industry Podcast for the fence professional.

Fence nerd, passion to share, passion to learn, eager to grow.

"It's not supposed to be easy... That's why it feels so good!"

With over 17 years in the fencing industry, Josh started his own business after two years at a small fence company. Before fencing, he ran a construction company until the recession prompted a change.

His first major fencing project, a two-year installation at Travis Air Force Base, set the foundation for his success. He then took on projects in Hawaii for three years before returning to the mainland, where he perfected an efficient and effective approach to building fences. Today, his company operates with eight employees and four subcontractor crews, delivering quality craftsmanship. Growth has been a constant theme, leading to a move into a new shop space. A true family business, Josh's son Bridger has been involved for the past eight years, taking on more responsibility.

Beyond business, Josh and his team are passionate about serving their local community and collaborating with organizations worldwide to make a meaningful impact.

Andrew is the president and lead financial planner of Atlas Financial Strategies. He is actively involved in the personal and business financial planning process. Andrew has been an advisor since 2011 and was honored to be named among the top 50 Financial Security Professionals in Florida by Forbes magazine.

Andrew is proud to work with the fence industry. He has assisted many members of the fencing community with their personal and business financial planning needs.

At 14, I ran away from home and endured a harrowing journey, including 11 years in prison, time in rehabs, halfway houses, mental institutions, and countless years of homelessness. I hit rock bottom, living in a cemetery, but I found the strength to get sober. Armed with nothing but a wheelbarrow and determination, I started knocking on doors to sell fence jobs. In 2014, I founded a fence company that has since grown into a multi-million dollar operation with multiple locations serving Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. Today, I live in my dream home with my wife and four beautiful children, enjoying the absolute freedom I've fought so hard to achieve.

Amanda is a co-founder of Contractor Accelerator and was responsible for creating the original software structure in 2015. Her experience and leadership have been focused on developing and delivering technology-driven services, providing client solutions, and driving growth. She has spent over 15 years in the industry with a robust background ranging from design and media to web and product development. Amanda's drive to help others streamline processes using technology is an asset to both customers and internal teams. As a result of her efforts, the company has maintained 100% year-over-year growth for the past nine years.