Merlin Theurer of Applegate Door Co. has been named Door Technician of the Year by the International Door Association, the company announced.
The award recognizes an outstanding technician employed by an IDA dealer member who demonstrates skill, professionalism and dedication to the door and access systems industry. Recipients must have at least five years of industry experience and demonstrate technical excellence across multiple product categories.
Theurer grew up in the door and access systems industry, working in the family business before officially joining Applegate Door. He took on a leadership role in 2013 and became part-owner in 2014.
In 2016, Theurer earned his Automated Access Systems Master Technician certification through the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation, becoming part of the industry’s first two-generation Master Technician team alongside his father, Lawrie Theurer, who achieved the designation in 2017.
The Master Technician certification, administered by the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation and sanctioned by the IDA, requires candidates to complete testing across residential, commercial sectional, rolling steel and fire door systems. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in installation, service and safety standards, along with verified field experience.
Theurer has worked to expand access to technical training throughout the Pacific Northwest, supporting the development and certification of other industry professionals. In 2025, he became part of the first duo to hold both Door and Gate Master Technician certifications.
“Merlin’s dedication, expertise and leadership continue to raise the bar for our industry,” business partner Stephanie Samuel said in a statement. “We are incredibly proud of his achievements and this well-deserved recognition.”
Applegate Door Co. has served the Willamette Valley since 1978, specializing in installation and service of residential and commercial sectional, rolling and fire doors, as well as automated door and gate openers.