How NAHB Has Helped Associate Members

NAHB’s Associate members comprise nearly two-thirds of the Federation’s overall membership and are essential to pushing the home building profession forward. From subcontractors to manufacturers to accountants, Associate members cover a large portion of the home building industry, and work tirelessly to support builders. 

As part of NAHB’s ongoing Associate Member Appreciation Month, the following three Associate members shared how NAHB has helped benefit their business, their advice for other members, and more.

• Adam Lepore, mortgage loan originator at U.S. Bank
• Monica Wheaton, vice president of customer success at ECI Software Solutions
• Mike Farr, vice president of sales at Cascade Manufacturing Co., and president/founder at Project SAFE of the Cedar River Corridor Area, Inc., a suicide awareness foundation

Why did you decide to become a member at NAHB?

Lepore: 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.

Wheaton: 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. 

Farr: I got involved to meet people and build relationships and support the industry that I make a living from.

Related: Get involved in NAHB Committees and Council Boards.

Lepore: 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: 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: 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.

Related: Registration is now open for the 2025 IBS.

What advice would you give someone who’s just getting their start in the home building industry?

Lepore: Get involved! Getting on a committee is the best way to rub elbows with the best in the business. Showing that you are involved and that you care about our industry is the best way to build meaningful relationships, which, in turn, will help grow your business.

Wheaton: I would highly recommend joining NAHB and taking the Residential Construction Industry Fundamentals course as a start. Home building is a fairly complex industry, so it is important to have a basic understanding of its makeup. I would then recommend attending IBS and networking with builders, manufacturers and others. Finally, ask lots of questions. People in the industry are very helpful. The more you know, the more success you will find. 

Farr: Get involved, attend meetings, listen and learn!