3 Ways IBS Helps Grow Your Career

Designers, builders, remodelers, architects and other residential building professionals flock to the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) each year to discover the latest products and learn innovative techniques and industry best practices.

The show floor buzzes with excitement as tens of thousands of industry professionals seek out new information and build valuable business relationships.

As IBS 2024 Scholarship Recipient Ali Simpson shared, “The IBS Scholarship Program provided a truly VIP experience that helped me to participate in more aspects of the Builders’ Show than I ever would have on my own. It turned what could have been an overwhelming experience into a manageable and enjoyable one, and the knowledge I gained will help me to have a much more fulfilling IBS experience when I attend again in years to come.

Discover what makes IBS the premier event for emerging industry professionals looking to grow their careers. 

#1 Connections & Networking 

Networking is a major draw at IBS. Industry professionals from across the United States and various sectors come together for three intensive days of connecting, learning and sharing. 

From education sessions to the bustling show floor, emerging industry professionals have the chance to forge business relationships that extend far beyond the event itself. 

Eliot Kahn
“This has been awesome! I wouldn’t have made it here without the scholarship but I know this is going to help us going forward and it’s been an incredible experience! I’m looking forward to connecting with folks more once I have a chance to decompress a bit and I’m stoked for next year!”  

Eliot Kahn, IBS 2024 Scholarship Recipient  

#2 Comprehensive Industry-Specific Education 

For industry professionals aged 21 to 35, participating in education opportunities is crucial for career advancement. IBS offers a dedicated time and place for professional development in residential construction. 

IBS Education Sessions provide cutting-edge information, industry best practices and access to influential leaders in the building industry — all at one comprehensive event. 

Young lady with long brown hair wearing a green jacket
“I enjoyed the education sessions. I’m now looking at ways in which I can take what I learned and integrate it into my day-to-day business. It was nice that there were many classes that deal with things I do every day – designing houses.”  

– Marcie Franklund, Former IBS Scholarship Recipient 

#3 Product & Professional Inspiration 

The Builders’ Show is the largest industry show of the year, bringing together top manufacturers and suppliers and debuting innovative products and trends across hundreds of thousands of square feet of exhibit space. 

While the show is expansive, IBS is uniquely tailored to provide relevant information for each career stage. Industry veterans share their knowledge, experiences, challenges and solutions to help emerging professionals strategically build their careers and businesses. 


IBS Scholarship allowed me to attend the Builders’ Show. Attending the show opened my eyes to how big the construction industry is nationwide. I met peers at the show who are experiencing a lack of younger generations in the trades like we are in my area and hear how they are overcoming this problem in their areas so I can apply it to mine.”  

Ty Whitman, IBS 2024 Scholarship Recipient 

Apply for a Scholarship to Experience the Builders’ Show 

Submit your #IBS2025 scholarship application if you are an NAHB Member between the ages of 21-35. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 12.  

Discover three ways attending IBS can boost your career growth. Get the details and apply now.  

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