Faces of the BIA: Viking Millwork

Category: Member-Features
04/14/2026

Quality crafted through customization

Welcome to our “Faces of the BIA” series! We are excited to introduce you to the organizations and people behind our Building Industry Association. It’s all about fostering connections, celebrating our members and helping you get to know the incredible companies that make up our BIA family!

Customization isn’t just a service at Viking Millwork; it’s the foundation of how the business operates. When Nick Olson acquired the holding of Country Wood Products in Audubon, Minnesota, in 2019, he purchased a business that once started as a hobby woodshop 40 years previously, and re-branded it to Viking Millwork at the beginning of 2024. Intentionally, he built the company around precision, discipline and a clear sense of purpose, delivering architectural millwork that is made to order and tailored to each project’s needs.

Rather than chasing every possible opportunity, Viking Millwork narrows its focus and executes at a high level.

“One of our keys is that we stay in our own lane—we don’t try to be everything to everyone, just do what we do the best,” Nick says. “Quick turn around and delivery capabilities make us a valuable partner.”

The company has always specialized in architectural mouldings and kiln dried hardwood lumber, same as what they do now, but with a renewed focus on higher quality with greater customization capabilities. One corner of the production facility is pictured below.

Products range from high production base, case and tongue-and-groove, to custom faux beams, arches and stair components, all done in-house with natural products. In addition to millwork packages, they take on a select number of highly custom fixture and component builds annually, with signature pieces appearing in homes, businesses, churches and restaurants across the region.

Nick spent his early career in the heavy equipment industry, gaining experience in management and sales. That business experience made ownership possible, while his long-standing interest in woodworking, architecture and the building industry made the transition into millwork both challenging and rewarding.

What Nick enjoys most about his role is the constant variation.

“Every day is different,” he says. “While we are technically a manufacturing company, we manufacture something different every day. Constantly searching to find a better way to do something to achieve better results or efficiency satisfies me.”

Nick joined the BIA shortly after purchasing the business, initially for networking, quickly realizing the organization offered more. Through advocacy, education and meaningful connections, his involvement helped generate lasting customer relationships and long-term growth. Currently he serves on the BIA board of directors, Remodelers Council and Viking Millwork holds a Very Invested Partner sponsorship, supporting the association’s advocacy and workforce efforts. He is pictured above, far right, volunteering at a Remodelers Council Picnic.

When asked about what advice he would give to someone just starting out in the industry, Nick emphasized clarity and discipline.

“Work smart and get to know your clients and customers,” he says. “Find out what solutions you can offer to make their life easier, that sets you apart from the masses.”

He adds that knowing when to walk away is just as important. “The ability to say no when it’s outside of your wheelhouse or capacity is paramount—nobody wins if you can’t deliver.”

It’s that commitment to craftsmanship and customization that continues to define Viking Millwork’s success. With a focused approach and a commitment to craftsmanship, they continue to deliver quality one custom piece at a time.​​​​​​​

Below: Curved crown ceiling detail produced for the Landmark Casino in Deadwood, S.D. It includes three floors of casino, restaurant and convention space outfitted with recessed LED lighting, prefabricated by Viking Millwork.

Written by Lydia McLaughlin, BIA-RRV Communications Intern