Members Boost Business Through NAHB Councils
NAHB councils offer like-minded members valuable opportunities to network with peers and share ideas. And by catering to a specific interest group of the housing industry, each councilhelps unify smaller communities within a local HBA.
For example, Cindy Cepko of the Wayne Pike BIA felt an instant connection when she joined the Professional Women in Building (PWB) council as an at-large member at the 2020 International Builders’ Show. While attending one of the council’s events at the show, she was impressed by the council’s numerous initiatives to support women in the building industry.
“PWB really does help create that sense of belonging that I think women members need to hear in this industry,” Cepko said. “They are very encouraging, energetic and provide a wealth of industry knowledge and experience. That’s the kind of interaction that breathes involvement and forms leaders.”
In addition to networking opportunities, the professional development aspect of councils also keeps members engaged. The gatherings that councils have are different from general HBA meetings because the content is specific to an industry discipline. Groups like the 55+ Housing Industry, Multifamily, Remodelers, National Sales and Marketing and Building Systems Councils help members expand their network and expertise within their niche.
Rajat Agarwal, who oversees the remodelers and the 55+ councils at the Greater Atlanta HBA, says that attending remodeling- and 55+ housing-specific webcasts through these councils is a great way to get more people involved in professional development and stay up-to-date with industry news.
"During one of our remodelers council events, we brought in an action coach who talked about innovative ways for our members to optimize time management and be more efficient. And feedback from the members was overwhelmingly positive," Agarwal said.
If you have questions about council membership, please contact NAHB Councils Member Services at councilsinfo@nahb.org or call 800-368-5242, x8216.