Midwest Woodcrafters:
Building Success from Humble Beginnings
Written by Amanda Murphy, Marketing Manager
Published January 2025
In the world of woodworking, dedication, innovation, and strong partnerships often lead to remarkable success stories. One such story is that of Midwest Woodcrafters, a company that has transformed from a small garage-based business into a successful woodworking and cabinetry company. Founded in 1989 by Russ Krella and Mike Allessi, Midwest Woodcrafters has been carving out its niche for over three decades.
Russ Krella, who was asked at a young age why he wouldn’t want to be a woodcrafter, initially explored various trades before dedicating himself to woodworking. Over time, his passion for the craft led him to pursue a career in cabinet making. Mike Allessi, a childhood friend, founded Midwest Woodcrafters alongside Russ. Together they incorporated the business in 1990. Their first account was creating fireplace mantels which laid the foundation for what would become an enduring enterprise. Today, 36 years later, Midwest Woodcrafters has expanded to tackle large-scale projects like healthcare buildings, corporate interiors, and complex remodeling jobs.
A key part of their success story has been the partnerships they’ve cultivated over the years, especially with Aetna, a supplier that has been instrumental in their growth. Russ recalls how Aetna’s representative initially stopped by when the business wasn’t ready to buy, but the persistence and care shown over time developed into a strong, mutually beneficial relationship. From high-quality materials like HPL, plywood, and lumber to Wilsonart’s adhesives, which Russ calls “the strongest and highest quality adhesive I’ve ever seen,” Aetna has been a reliable partner in ensuring Midwest Woodcrafters continues to grow and deliver exceptional projects.
With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Mike and Russ have a philosophy they share with others: “Treat everyone as an equal.” Whether it’s an apprentice or a seasoned professional, everyone starts somewhere. Giving people the respect and attention they deserve builds lasting relationships. This approach, paired with Aetna’s unwavering support, has contributed to a partnership that has lasted over 30 years and continues to thrive.
As Russ puts it, Aetna has always made them feel more like partners than just customers. This strong relationship is a cornerstone of Midwest Woodcrafters’ ongoing success and will continue to drive their growth in the years ahead.
