The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has, as its Core Purpose: “to advance and promote the remodeling industry’s professionalism, product, and vital public purpose.” NARI’s member contractors “have the opportunity to enrich their knowledge with cutting edge educational opportunities and certifications. They have unlimited use of the NARI logo, which is promoted nationwide in a number of consumer media outlets. They are easy for consumers to find on the NARI website, and they have access to leads through the NARI website.” NARI also provides marketing advice, information about building permits, and events focusing on various topics of vital interest to professionals in the remodeling industry.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) considers itself to be “the premier resource for industry information, education, research, and technical expertise.” One of the organization’s primary benefits for members is called Powerful Advocacy, and is described thus: “Currently ranked #11 on Fortune Magazine’s ‘Power 25’ Advocates, NAHB has the grassroots strength of over 235,000 members to defeat excessive regulations and defend affordable housing initiatives on Capitol Hill, in your state, and in the communities where you do business. That puts money and time back in your pocket! Plus, NAHB members are kept informed with prompt regulatory and legislative alerts.” Other benefits include news updates, networking opportunities, and educational programs.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) is dedicated to “enhance member success and excellence, promote professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide.” This organization has over 40,000 members and hosts the world’s largest trade show for the kitchen and bath industries. Focus areas of NKBA include specialty segments for Builders/Remodelers, Cabinet Shops, Dealers, Decorative Plumbing and Hardware, Designer, Distributor, Fabricator, Installer, Manufacturer, Manufacturer’s Representative, and Multi-Branch Retailer/Home Centers.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) offers government advocacy, awards, conferences, and education. Members will also find examples of contracts for their use, and information on keeping up to date with technology. The AIA features an array of streaming videos and podcasts on design, leadership, and best practices. There is a blog and news feeds for members to subscribe to. As its goal, the AIA claims to serve as “the voice of the architecture profession and the resource for our members in service to society.” It has over 83,000 members and features subgroups devoted to topics including professional knowledge and design, both nationally and internationally.

All of these organizations have local chapters and members are able to benefit from the overarching functions and professional contributions of the associations at the national level while taking advantage of opportunities for local participation and networking. Each trade association’s website is worth exploring, in order to determine which one would best serve you and your company in meeting and expanding your own goals for success.

This three-part series of webinars attacks green building on the renovation and remodeling front. They aim to steer contractors through the history, intent, and content of USGBC’s new REGREEN guidelines and discuss the future of the program. The sessions will also provide information about the green remodeling market and additional education opportunities available to remodeling contractors in need of further green renovation expertise.

It’s not too late to catch the last presenter. Registration fees are $60 per session for USGBC members and $80 for non-members. Learn more and sign up at REGREEN Revolution.

Well, you have two options right now. You can either sit there and wait out the storm and possibly go under as many of your competitors are, or take advantage of a slower time to revamp your business.

I spoke with a few construction companies recently. Operating in California, they are struggling with the new laws that require all plans to be inspected by an architect. One family company decided to send one of the younger brothers to college to become an architect. Another company is using this time to branch out and to explore new avenues. They invested in heavy equipment and training for some crew members so that they can now offer excavation services. One older construction owner made the decision to take this opportunity to scale back his operation and pursue a lifelong dream to build custom furniture and cabinetry. He enrolled in the appropriate classes to learn the trade, and is now happily remodeling his shop to accommodate his new direction.

The point is, don’t just sit there. Use this slower pace to do the things that you’ve been too busy to address in years past. As a friend who was dying from cancer said of his enthusiastic outlook, “surround yourself with those you love and always have something to look forward to.” This economic storm will end, and a bright future will emerge. Those who will survive and prosper will be the companies that take the appropriate action now.