Shaw Industries Group, Inc. has announced that Chief Sustainability & Innovation Officer Kellie Ballew has been recognized with the 2024 IWBI Trailblazer Award by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). This prestigious honor celebrates individuals who drive innovation and progress in the WELL movement, prioritizing health and well-being in the built environment.
Recognizing Leadership in Sustainable Innovation
The IWBI Trailblazer Award is part of the institute’s annual Community Awards, which highlight leaders committed to advancing people-first places that enhance occupant health and wellness. IWBI President and CEO Rachel Hodgdon praised this year’s honorees for their contributions, stating:
“This year’s Community Award winners are truly remarkable. Each of these leaders has made profound contributions to the healthy building movement and advancing our shared vision for people-first places. We are honored to work alongside these amazing individuals and grateful for their dedication.”
A Trailblazer in Sustainable Manufacturing
With a 30-year career at Shaw, Ballew has played a pivotal role in integrating sustainability into product development and manufacturing. Under her leadership, Shaw has achieved several industry-first milestones:
EcoWorx Carpet Tile: She was instrumental in developing Shaw’s EcoWorx carpet tile, the first PVC-free and fully recyclable carpet tile, which became the first Cradle to Cradle Certified® carpet tile. Today, nearly 90% of Shaw’s products are Cradle to Cradle Certified.
Works with WELL Certification: Shaw became the first flooring company to receive the Works with WELL product license for its EcoWorx carpet tile, aligning with health strategies in the WELL Building Standard.
EcoWorx Resilient: In 2024, Ballew led the launch of EcoWorx Resilient, a PVC-free, fully recyclable, and low embodied carbon flooring solution, setting a new benchmark for sustainability.
Industry Recognition and Influence
Shaw President & CEO Tim Baucom emphasized Ballew’s impact:
“Kellie’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and human-centric design has made a profound impact on Shaw and the broader industry. The IWBI Trailblazer Award underscores her role as a thought leader and champion for health and well-being in the built environment.”
Beyond Shaw, Ballew is a recognized advisor and speaker, actively contributing to sustainability and innovation discussions worldwide. She is known for translating complex sustainability concepts into actionable strategies, positioning her as a respected leader in the field.
Commitment to People-Centered Sustainability
Expressing gratitude for the award, Ballew said:
“I am honored to receive the IWBI Trailblazer Award and to be recognized among such an inspiring group of professionals. At Shaw, we believe in putting people at the center of all we do—what we call sustain[HUMAN]ability—ensuring we design and manufacture products that contribute to healthier, more sustainable spaces. This award is a testament to the collaborative efforts within our organization and the broader WELL movement.”
Ballew’s recognition highlights Shaw Industries’ continued leadership in sustainable manufacturing, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, human well-being, and environmental responsibility.
