A s you start to gear up for the holidays, don’t forget that the 2017 International Builders’ Show (IBS) is right around the corner. The show is early—Jan. 10-12 in Orlando, Fla.—so be sure to register and make travel arrangements if you haven’t done so already. And if you haven’t yet purchased holiday gifts for staff, think about how much they would benefit from attending IBS. It would be a great gift to their careers and to your business.
The Builders’ Show is the world’s largest annual light construction trade show, and it’s no exaggeration to say that from the opening ceremonies until the lights are turned out on the exhibit floor, it is the center of the home building universe. Next year’s event will include many exciting activities and programs, and NAHB again will partner with the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) to produce Design and Construction Week. This partnership enables people registered for either IBS or KBIS to visit the exhibit floors of both trade shows at no extra cost.
New in 2017, the leading trade association for the residential technology industry, CEDIA, will showcase exhibitors that specialize in smart home technology. Also new in 2017 is the members-only Meeting of the Members, set for 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 11, which will provide an opportunity for members to see how the association develops priorities and creates action plans. The meeting will also showcase NAHB’s many membership benefits and provide a chance for members to network with like-minded building professionals. As an added bonus, businesswoman and Shark Tank personality Barbara Corcoran will present her winning strategies on how to lead teams to success.
In addition to great product exhibits and special events, the show will feature myriad educational offerings. Attendees who purchase full registration can choose from more than 130 sessions in eight specialty tracks. Be sure to check out the master sessions and builder clinics, which include live demonstrations of building techniques.
Education doesn’t always come from a traditional panel presentation or lecture, and the Builders’ Show is known for its interactive learning formats such as demonstrations, case studies, town halls, and debates. Plan to visit the NAHB “Centrals” to network with colleagues and learn about the latest trends in remodeling, custom building, 55-plus housing, sales, design, and multifamily construction.
You’ll also want to see NAHB’s official show home, The New American Home, which includes state-of-the-art products, techniques, and design concepts that can be incorporated in new-home construction in any market. The 2017 home will include aging-in-place features and resort-style amenities, such as a putting green.
The New American Remodeled Home, a 1980s house renovated in a modern island style, also will be open for touring during this year’s show. The home was gutted down to the studs and will feature a more open, centrally located kitchen. The 2017 International Builders’ Show promises to be a rewarding, fun-filled event. I hope to see you there.
