NAHB’s Associate members constitute nearly two-thirds of the Federation’s overall membership and play a crucial role in advancing the home building profession. These members, ranging from subcontractors to manufacturers to accountants, support builders across the industry.
As part of NAHB’s ongoing Associate Member Appreciation Month, three Associate members shared how NAHB has benefited their businesses and offered advice for other members.
Adam Lepore, a mortgage loan originator at U.S. Bank, explained his decision to join NAHB: “In 2011, my mentor at Wells Fargo encouraged me to get involved at my local HBA, Shore Builders Association of Central New Jersey. Immediately, I joined committees both at the local and state levels. I have been to two International Builders’ Show (IBS) meetings and multiple spring and fall meetings as well. I proudly serve on the Associate Members Committee and Advocacy Subcommittee.”
Monica Wheaton, vice president of customer success at ECI Software Solutions, cited networking opportunities as her reason for joining: “I decided to become a member of NAHB for the networking and connection opportunities. I also wanted to give back to the industry by volunteering on committees.”
Mike Farr, vice president of sales at Cascade Manufacturing Co., and president/founder at Project SAFE of the Cedar River Corridor Area, Inc., stated: “I got involved to meet people and build relationships and support the industry that I make a living from.”
Lepore highlighted how NAHB has improved his business: “I’ve learned what Builders and Associates around the country are dealing with on a day-to-day basis. NAHB members work together for a common goal with no prejudice. I have completed transactions based on relationships that I have built on all levels of NAHB as well.”
Wheaton emphasized educational benefits: “Participating at IBS has been a great opportunity for us. It allows us to meet new prospects and network with our existing customers. In addition, NAHB has provided many educational opportunities and resources to help us build our knowledge and skills in the industry.”
Farr shared his personal experience: “NAHB has allowed me to meet many people in the industry who gave me the opportunity to sell our products. But most of all, it has allowed me to make many lifelong friends. I lost my middle son, Garrett Ronald Farr, to suicide on Sept. 22, 2017. I started a suicide awareness and education foundation, Project Safe CRCA, five weeks after I lost him. My NAHB family helped me through my initial grief and have always been there for me! I am proud to identify as a member of this association.”
For those starting in the home building industry, Lepore advised: “Get involved! Getting on a committee is the best way to rub elbows with the best in the business.” Wheaton recommended joining NAHB: “Home building is a fairly complex industry… attending IBS… ask lots of questions.” Farr echoed similar sentiments: “Get involved, attend meetings, listen and learn!”
