by David Chapman
Staff Writer
The struggling economy has affected Florida businesses of all sizes and kinds within the last few years, but those in the construction and real estate industries have especially felt the sting. Yet, as leaders of the Northeast Florida Builders Association and Sales and Marketing Council saw during their recent installation of officers, there are plenty of economic survivors who remain optimistic about the industry moving forward.
The annual installation ceremony at the University of North Florida was attended by more than 350 industry professionals who saw the leadership transition of both the local builders representative group and its marketing arm organization.
Andy Chambers, Jacksonville division president of Engle Homes, took over as NEFBA’s 66th executive committee president and called on the group to focus on fundamentals and getting back to basics in the year ahead to achieve greater success.
Chambers succeeded Woodside Homes President Glenn Layton, who said he was honored to serve the role even in tough industry times.
“I asked for a commitment individually and collectively,” said Layton. “You answered that call. You are the reason Northeast Florida outperforms other areas in the state.”
In addition to the event being the last for Layton as president, it was the final meeting for Cal Williams of Lennar Homes to serve as SMC chair. Mark Carlson of Carlson Capital Advisors was installed as the 2010 chair and said he was confident the people and industry within Northeast Florida are on the right track.
“Pro-business is in my DNA,” said Carlson. “It’s in our DNA ... there are opportunities in 2010.”
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