Young Pros Reveal 3 Most Valuable Takeaways from IBS 2017

Scholarship recipients gather for a group shot at IBS 2017.

Applications open today for the IBS 2018 Scholarship Program, allowing select NAHB members under 35 years of age to enjoy all the benefits of attending the NAHB International Builders’ Show® — practically for free.

NAHB welcomed 22 scholarship recipients to IBS 2017. After the Show, they talked to NAHB about the most valuable takeaways.

Products and More Products

With over 569,000 square feet and more than 1,500 exhibitors, IBS is often where manufacturers unveil new products. It is also the place to find out what’s hot and what’s not in fixtures, finishes and building applications.

“It was absurd — in a positive way,” said Laila Reilly, a client relations manager at MaGrann Associates in Mount Laurel, N.J. “It was bigger than any other conference I’ve attended, and I’ve never seen such sophisticated demonstrations before.”

“I learned about the new products that are coming out and got new ideas—both of which are critical in my profession, the high-end custom home building market,” said Nicole Chappie of Magleby Construction, LLC in Lindon, Utah.

Additionally, with more than 75 exhibitors and over 20,000 square feet of display space, the giant nextBUILD area at IBS was where attendees explored state-of-the-art business software solutions, design and personal technology tools.

“I signed up with a project management software vendor that was there,” said Nathan Cooper, owner and president of River Valley Builders, Inc. in Little Rock, Ark. Because technology companies were conveniently grouped together on the show floor, “I was able to get all of my questions answered and make a decision right there.”

Educational Offerings

IBS 2017 featured more than 160 education sessions on 55+ housing, building performance, design, sales, remodeling, high-performance building, business management and multifamily.

“Education was my primary reason for going. I learned a lot of great tips, techniques and trade secrets—things that I’ve been able to apply to my business already,” said Dan Souther, owner of Round Here Renovations LLC in Atlanta.

A full registration is the way to go, said Chris Corder, owner of Coastal Restoration in Gearhart, Oregon. “Rather than fussing around with education throughout the year, why not go to something like IBS where you get it all in one spot?”

Networking with Pros

Building industry professionals of all ages attend the Builders’ Show to network with folks from all across the country. Whether it’s walking the show, listening to a seminar or attending an event, there are always opportunities to make connections.

“We all come from such varied backgrounds, so it was interesting getting to learn their history, where they are from and what they do,” said Jordan Okimura, a financial analyst for Brookfield Residential Hawaii.

“I enjoyed the whole aspect of the IBS scholarship program,” said Jonathan Janacek, of Janacek Remodeling in Northwest Arkansas. “I made some good connections with many in the [scholarship] group. I enjoyed finding out what some of their struggles are and learning how we are similar in some respects and different in others.”

Applications to the 2018 program must be received by June 21. Get the details now.