Top 7 Reasons for Young Professionals to Attend the International Builders’ Show
The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) is the premier event for the residential construction industry — with everything from products to education to networking all under one roof. But for those who have never attended or may be just starting out in their careers in construction, it may seem like a lot to navigate to maximize the experience.
The fact that there are so many opportunities, though, is one of the key reasons that IBS is a must-attend event for industry professionals.
“I think it’s the only time each year that you have pretty much any resource that you want in the industry available to you,” stated Lou Salge of Four Seasons Design & Remodeling, a 2020 IBS Scholarship recipient. “Whether that’s a vendor, somebody that has knowledge of a portion of the industry that you want to learn more about or even someone that you follow in Instagram — just walking around in the hallways.”
Past IBS Scholarship recipients shared similar sentiments about attending the show:
- “The IBS experience allows you to see everything and get your mind away from your daily work and personal responsibilities while you’re there,&rdquo noted Lauren Merritt of Loren Homes, Inc. “You get the chance to focus on high-level goals of not only your company but the industry too.&rdquo
- “Once at the show it was so interesting to see new trends that are up and coming in the market, and what’s being done in different parts of the country,&rdquo observed Cameron Medlin of Garman Homes, LLC.
- “I found there were sessions for everyone,” said Kenzie Reynolds of Strohmaier Construction Inc. “I especially loved the fun live demonstrations and panel discussions that were conducted by some of the biggest voices in the industry. If you want to excel in your career, now is the time. Attending IBS will get you ahead of your competitors, and you’ll come back to your role inspired and ready to grow as a company and person.”
- “There were a lot of new ideas that I never heard about — particularly regarding universal design,” shared Ramy Hanna of Golden Rule Builders, Inc. “There was one session I attended that discussed the difference of smart homes versus smart devices, and automation. And it was so helpful, because before I went into it, I wasn’t that familiar with the difference.”
- “The world is basically your oyster in terms of whatever you’re interested in learning more about — products or services in the building industry,” stated Laila Reilly of MaGrann Associates. “It doesn’t matter what side you touch, there are a hundred people there that can help solve your problem or have a similar solution.”
- “I was able to network with like-minded individuals experiencing similar situations across the country,” said Jesse Brown of Franklin Door & Trim. “In addition, IBS allowed for the education of diverse practices and products that can better position my young company to succeed in our local market. I would recommend any young person in the residential construction field to seek out the knowledge and experience offered at IBS.”