Halifax, NS (December 8, 2009) – The Canadian Window & Door Manufacturers Association (CWDMA) honoured many of Canada’s industry builders with the Industry Pioneer Awards, presented at the Win-door North America show held in Toronto on November 18.

Peter Kohler Windows & Entrance Systems founder, Peter Kohler, P. Eng., was among the 42 award recipients whose contributions to the industry were recognized. The Industry Pioneer awards acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated dedication to the industry and/or the association, who have proven themselves as leaders and have, at many different levels, had a major impact on the Canadian window and door industry over the years.

In the late 1970\'s, Mr. Kohler recognized the opportunity for vinyl windows for use in residential construction and renovation. He introduced them into a market dominated by wood, and despite the odds and resistance from the market, persevered. Over the next 15 years, Peter transformed the window market in Atlantic Canada to one dominated by vinyl.

From the very start, Peter invested heavily in R&D to maintain a constant stream of frame and glazing products, product options and revolutionary manufacturing processes. The result is one of the most unique window companies in North America where product quality and product innovation are the standard.

“Canadian window and door manufacturers have a strong reputation for quality and innovation,” said Kohler. “It is truly an honour to be recognized as a pioneer and to share the stage with so many industry leaders who work every day to further our industry and its reputation for producing the best products in the world.”

Throughout his thirty plus year career, Peter Kohler has earned numerous industry accolades. In 2006, he became only the second Atlantic Canadian to win the CP Loewen Award, which recognizes an individual’s outstanding commitment and contribution to the window and door industry.

About the CWDMA

The Canadian Window & Door Manufacturers Association (CWDMA) is the voice of the window and door manufacturing industry in Canada and represents members from across the country.

The CWDMA\'s mission is to represent and support all aspects of the window and door manufacturing industry, including formulating and promoting high standards of quality in manufacturing, design, marketing, distribution, sales and application of all types of window and door products.

For a list of 2009 “Industry Pioneer” Award winners visit www.cwdma.ca