Meet Jake Maier | President at JEM Cabinet & Millwork Co.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jake Maier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jake, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
JEM Cabinet & Millwork Co. really came out of years of hands-on experience in the industry and a good feel for our local market here in northern Colorado. Since 2015, we’ve worked as finish carpenters, cabinet installers, and eventually cabinet makers, so we had a solid sense of which business models could both thrive financially and be fulfilling to run.

When we started, we didn’t have a big pile of capital to throw at it. That forced us to get creative and sometimes take unconventional approaches—which, looking back, has been a huge advantage. It taught us to be resourceful, and that mindset still shapes how we operate today.

Our main focus has always been building three things: the team, the systems, and the brand. We reinvest heavily into the company to strengthen those pillars. Alongside that, we’re building a strong network of vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors—everyone from large cabinet manufacturers to small CNC shops, independent installers, distributors, and general contractors.

There are so many talented businesses out there doing great work, and we see value in partnering with the best of them. By combining those partnerships with our experienced team and proven systems, we’re able to take advantage of the opportunities our marketing and brand create. The result is that we’re capturing more work, operating across more sectors of the industry, and consistently delivering at a higher level.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At JEM, we are a full-service cabinet and millwork provider—a true one-stop shop. We offer flexible involvement, allowing our customers to choose how much or how little support they need throughout their project. From design assistance and product selection to procurement, installation, and final punch lists, we’re equipped to manage every stage of the process.

This includes turnkey interior remodels where we supply all materials, handle installation, and oversee project management. Alternatively, we also support general contractors and builders by facilitating the sale of cabinets, millwork, and accessories when they already have their own teams in place.

Our team collaborates with trusted, experienced local trade partners and both local and national suppliers to ensure every project is delivered on time, within budget, and to a standard of excellence rarely seen in the industry. We take pride in each project and enjoy working with collaborative clients who are excited to bring their vision to life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Anywhere with live music, good food and drink and friendly people, that’s also near a mountain river. There’s more than you’d think!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The whole JEM team deserves the credit, but specifically my wife Vanessa and brother Tristin. They have been here for the entire journey and JEM wouldn’t exist without all 3 of us.

Website: https://jemcabinets.com

Instagram: @jemcabinetco

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jemcarpentryco

Youtube: @JEMCarpentry