Freedom of Choice: Preserving and Growing the Hearth Industry
After nearly four decades in the hearth industry, Steve Haagmans is stepping into retirement, concluding his tenure on the HPBAC Board and his professional career. His departure marks the close of an era defined by thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and tireless advocacy, a legacy that will continue to influence the industry for years to come.
A Career Rooted in Risk and Reward
Steve’s journey began in 1985, long before “home comfort” was a buzzword. He joined Miles Industries, makers of Valor fireplaces, in 1998 and helped transform its operations by taking a bold risk: closing a local satellite branch and ending a major utility partnership to focus on independent dealers.
“It was a big risk,” he recalls. “But it allowed us to focus our attention on growing the independent dealer network, to be a genuine part of their business. That was a turning point for our company.”
That decision exemplified Haagmans’ approach: make courageous, strategic moves that strengthen relationships and give customers, and businesses, more freedom to choose their own paths.
Leading with Purpose at HPBAC
Steve joined the HPBAC Board in 2018, stepping into leadership with both feet. Within two years, he became Chair, helping guide the association through one of its most transformative eras.
Rather than set rigid goals, Haagmans’ focus was on culture, building a collaborative environment where people wanted to belong.
“My leadership style is to help individuals reach their potential,” he says. “I wanted to create a culture that others would be excited to be part of. We’re small but mighty, and we deliver what our members need.”
That spirit paid off. Under his leadership, HPBAC grew its membership base, improved engagement, and became more respected among policymakers and other industry associations.
Autonomy and Advocacy: The Turning Point
One of Steve’s proudest accomplishments was helping HPBAC secure greater independence from its U.S. counterpart, HPBA. The move from a traditional affiliate agreement to a Memorandum of Understanding gave HPBAC the autonomy to better serve Canadian members and adapt to unique national regulations.
“It was like a David and Goliath situation,” he says with a laugh. “But it gave us the ability to plan for the future and strengthen our financial and operational foundation. That autonomy was worth fighting for.”
An Industry in Transition
In his 40 years in the business, Haagmans has seen more change in the last five years than in the previous three decades combined.
From pandemic-era supply chain crises to the rise of electric fireplaces and regulatory pressures on solid fuel, the industry has been forced to evolve.
Many companies, he notes, have had to become leaner, more flexible, and more innovative. “It’s been a time of transformation,” he says. “But it’s also shown how resilient this industry is.”
Freedom of Choice: The Heart of the Fight
As he reflects on his time at HPBAC, Steve’s message to the industry is clear:
“Freedom of choice is worth fighting for.”
That freedom, to have a fireplace, to choose wood, gas, or electric, is what the industry must continue to protect.
“The foundational work of the association is advocacy,” he explains. “We’re in the business of preserving and growing the industry so that we have jobs, we have products we love, and we have the freedom to choose how we heat our homes and create comfort.”
For Haagmans, that fight is personal. “A fireplace is the living part of my house. It’s where my family gathers every day in the winter. I’m willing to fight for that.”
Looking Forward
As Steve steps away from his official role, his impact continues through the people and partnerships he’s helped build. His advice to future board members? Start small, get involved, and be part of something bigger than yourself.
“You truly get out what you put into it,” he says. “If you want to grow personally and professionally, and help shape the future of this industry, there’s no better place to do it.”
Closing Thought
Through decades of change, Steve Haagmans has stood for integrity, collaboration, and above all, freedom of choice. His legacy reminds us that preserving the hearth industry isn’t just about keeping fires burning. It’s about protecting the right to gather around them.
Watch the full interview with Steve below.
