In the summer of 1985, John Lessick started his career with Apex Wood Floors as an apprentice under his late cousin, who founded the company in 1982. John dedicated himself to learning every aspect of the business over the next nine years, ultimately leading him to purchase the company in 1994. As an early entrepreneur, John realized that owning a business would be a lifelong learning journey.

During the following eight years, John developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of wood and, with the help of his team, honed his skills in finishing, production, and installation. In 2002, John attended a nationally renowned strategic entrepreneurial class at UIC, which proved to be a turning point in his career. There, he met his mentor, Joe Slawek, who introduced him to executive coaching. This experience allowed John to create a high-end business strategy for Apex, which has been the guiding principle for the company’s success for over 20 years.

At Apex, John works alongside his team of artisans, craftspeople, and valued vendor partners to create and deliver exceptional products to top designers, architects, and builders nationwide. Apex is dedicated to providing complete care, custody, and control to ensure that the outcomes of their work are predictable and exceed their client’s expectations.

John is an active member of several industry associations, including ASID, ICAA, NARI, and IWPA, and he served as the past chairman of the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). He lives in Glen Ellyn with his wife, Theresa, who is also his partner in Apex. They have three adult children. John is devoted to his faith and attends Highpoint Church in Naperville, where he serves on the Elder board. He is passionate about personal development and invests his time mentoring and coaching other business owners, executives, and budding entrepreneurs. John’s faith, family, and service to others are the foundation of his life and continue to shape the culture at Apex Wood Floors.