By Nicholas Tamarin
NKBA Ohio State Chapter President Michael A. Wright is not only a CMKBD, CCS, and CLS, but also a NKBA Global Connect Ambassador and a board member for Habitat for Humanity. The owner of Cleveland Kitchen & Design’s main gig, however, is as an award-winning interior designer of residential spaces.
Wright began his current path of life thanks to the advice of a final-semester high school art teacher. The world of architecture and interior design became his everything. Wright studied Architecture at Middle Tennessee State University and over his career, has worked in multiple markets and in all versions of the industry, from new construction to whole home remodels. We asked him to tell us more about his impressive career.
Could you tell us about your career background?
I’ve been in the kitchen and bath world for over 25 years. I started out just loving design and building things that made people feel more at home. That has finally started transitioning into running my own design-build company with my wife, Christine, working on projects that blend beauty with real life. I still get excited walking into a space and seeing the potential.
How did you get involved in the NKBA, and how has it benefited your career?
I got involved with NKBA because I was looking for a stronger connection to others in the industry. What I found was a real community. Being part of NKBA has helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect professionally, creatively, and as a mentor to others coming up in the field.
Why did you choose to get certified?
I went after certification to push myself. It wasn’t about needing another title; it was about proving to myself and my clients that I take what I do seriously. It’s helped me stand out, sure, but it also made me better at what I do every day.
What do you hope to accomplish as chapter president?
I care a lot about this industry and the people in it, so running for chapter president just felt like the next step. I want our chapter to feel alive and welcoming, somewhere people want to be involved. My hope is to create more opportunities for connection, education, and support.
How is it mentoring a Skilled Labor NKBA Student member?
It’s been amazing. I’ve been working with Delano Harper, an interior design student who is starting to help out in the field and will soon shift into a design assistant. Seeing his excitement and curiosity reminds me of why I fell in love with this work in the first place. Mentorship goes both ways; it’s as energizing for me as it is helpful for him.
