A New Chapter Set to Begin for NAHB’s Leadership Academy
Applications being accepted now through Jan. 5
NAHB’s commitment to preparing members for success in leadership roles has taken on new life in recent years. In 2024, NAHB launched the Leadership Academy to give rising member leaders a deeper, more intentional path to develop their skills — and the academy’s momentum continues to build.
What began as a simple concept has quickly become one of NAHB’s most impactful programs. Over the past two years, 30 members from across the country have learned invaluable lessons in leadership strategies through a unique blend of virtual conversations, hands-on workshops, and in-person retreats.
“The Leadership Academy was an incredible experience for me because it offered a clear, in-depth look at NAHB’s structure, leadership, and mission — insights that will help me better represent and communicate the value of our organization,” said Amy Abeyta, vice president of national builder sales at All Western Mortgage. “The team-building sessions, especially the personality and group exercises, were both impactful and energizing.”
Abeyta went on to say that she especially enjoyed learning practical strategies to help make the most of networking opportunities — something she says she has often found challenging. “I’m grateful for NAHB’s investment in future leaders and I’m excited to carry what I’ve learned back to my local and national involvement.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Cohort
After two successful classes in 2024 and 2025, NAHB is now assembling its third cohort for 2026. Applications are currently being accepted until Jan. 5, 2026. The program will kick off in February at the International Builders’ Show in Orlando and will include four additional in-person gatherings throughout the year.
What Participants Can Expect
The academy is designed to push members to think differently about leadership — both personally and within the context of NAHB. Throughout the program, the cohort will work on:
- Identifying what makes their leadership approach distinct
- Translating past leadership experience into meaningful industry service
- Gaining a deeper, clearer understanding of how the NAHB Federation operates — and how they can influence it
Members won’t just be learning; they’ll also be contributing. Academy participants play a role in preparing new national volunteers by helping lead segments of the NAHB New Attendee Workshops during leadership meetings.
Who the Academy Is For
Ideal candidates are NAHB members with existing national leadership experience who are already active in national committees, councils, events, or similar roles. A commitment to all virtual and in-person sessions throughout the year is required. (NAHB provides partial reimbursement for travel.)
Applications are officially open, and submissions are due by Monday, Jan. 5. For more information and to apply, visit nahb.org/academy.