The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) is the building industry’s largest annual trade show, yet it is much more than just another industry event. Certainly, the exhibit floor is the place to see newly released products, but you also gain access to top-notch education and numerous opportunities to network with industry professionals.
In short, IBS is the place to grow professionally.
Unique to IBS are its education sessions, destinations and events that are geared specifically towards young professionals to provide 21- to 35-year-olds with the tools needed to develop and build experience, make new connections and have some fun, too!
Here are the top 5 reasons why IBS should be on your radar for 2017:
#1: Exceptional Education
With over 130 sessions to choose from, some of the best education opportunities available all year can be found at IBS. You can learn about the latest advancements in technology, building practices, sales and marketing techniques and more from leading industry professionals.
“The greatest thing about attending IBS is the education,” said Matt Fehrmann of Zgraph, Inc. located in Daytona, Florida. “I went to seven sessions in three days and didn’t attend any bad ones. They were all good.”
#2: Informative Exhibits
IBS is the nation’s largest residential housing construction trade event. Just by walking the show floor, you can explore thousands of products – including some that debut at the show – while gaining valuable insights talking to representatives from top manufacturers and suppliers.
“I’d never been to IBS before, so I didn’t know what exactly to expect. It was a BIG show,” said Kevin Blackburn of Classe Homes located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. “There were so many new products coming out that I wouldn’t have gotten a chance to see otherwise.”
#3: Specialized Programming at IBS Centrals
IBS Centrals are the place to find specialized programming in your niche, and every year, more and more industry professionals, like you, are finding great value in spending time at the Centrals. In addition to short-yet-information-filled education sessions specific to your industry segment, you can also grab a bite to eat, relax, and network with peers and leading industry experts.
#4: Networking with Other Young Professionals
More than 50,000 building, design, remodeling and other industry professionals attend IBS each year and it’s not uncommon to establish connections that last long after the show ends. As you nurture those new relationships, it is often these peers that help you grow your career and reach your goals.
In addition to the networking opportunities that happen organically, there are also special events specific for young professionals, such as the annual Young Professionals After Hours Party. Watch BuildersShow.com for more events and details to be released in the coming months.
“The Young Professionals Party was so much fun. I ran into other YPs I’d met at another networking event and even some of my fellow HBA members that I didn’t realize would be there,” said Amity Edwards, owner of 918 Interiors located in Tulsa.
#5: Incredible Value
While there are plenty of shows you could attend, you won’t find another show that gives you access to this much information and so many business connections – at such a low rate – as IBS does. You’ll find out what’s hot, new and trending in the industry – straight from the manufacturers. You’ll gain valuable new business ideas from the 130+ education sessions, meet other industry professionals and will likely find at least one new solution to resolve a nagging business issue. It’s truly all here at the Builders’ Show.