The West Wind Hardwood Team

Jan Nielsen

is the son, of the father-son partnership that began in 1978. Born into a family of craftsmen, he inherited his family's appreciation and skill with wood. Born in Denmark, Jan has lived on the Saanich Peninsula since 1974, and intends to call North Saanich home; not withstanding the frequent trips to Mexico and abroad.

jan@westwindhardwood.com

Lars Nielsen

is Jan's brother and born in Quebec; raised on the BC coast where he acquired a great appreciation of the sea while living on a boat with his parents. Boats have factored largely throughout Lars' life, as even his marriage took place aboard his 1947 Chris Craft. Lars is committed to his family; his newest project - another boat, and sustained personal growth.

Shelley Nielsen

is Jan's wife. A true BC'er born and bred, Shelley has been part of the West Wind team since 1978. A true family business, their daughters Olivia and Anna have occasionally lent a hand. Shelley thrives with West Wind's successes and sees no early retirement.....perhaps just a few more extended holidays with Jan. Those many hours of Spanish lessons and homework will not be in vain!!

shelley@westwindhardwood.com

Joel Radford

is our wood-flooring expert becoming the icon of West Wind's flooring expansion. He is thoroughly knowledgeable with all aspects of our brand name and custom floors. Joel started some years ago as a part-time student coming highly recommended by his woodworking teacher at Parkland Secondary.

John Wrobel

a little long in the tooth BUT ‘young at heart’!  He brings a long association with building supply stores with him.  John likes to be known as a true Westerner – having lived in our four Western provinces – he has settled in North Saanich with his wife of many years.  In his spare time, he can be found tending his small garden and orchard. 

john@westwindhardwood.com

Ben Salyn

has returned to his interest in woodworking after a brief hiatus to study Music and Politics at university and a stint teaching English in Japan.  He enjoys hiking, swimming, canoeing, and exploring in general.  As a new father, he has also discovered a love for sleeping and singing lullabies.

Dominic Loiacono

came to us through the University Of Victoria Business Co-op Program in January 2005. He has since completed his MBA, as well as two degrees in Commerce and Arts (Italian Studies).  He has managed multiple trips to Europe incorporating side trips to Russia and Egypt.  He is a true Renaissance man.  He’s gone again, but not necessarily for good.  We hope not but only time will tell.

dominic@westwindhardwood.com

Ethan Tarr

is Parkland grad...of course.  He has developed a passion for woodwork and design.  Ultimately, his goal is to become an architect.  In the meantime, he likes long bike rides on and off roading; loves photography and capturing cinematic beauties.  His current fav wood is American black walnut.