The University of North Florida student chapter of the National Association of Home Builders traveled to Las Vegas to compete against other student chapters at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas.
Months of hard work paid off when the team captured second place in the nation.
Each participating school submitted a 150-page book consisting of a market study, site design, original floorplans and renderings, financial analysis, competitive analysis, green practices, project schedule and details on the joint venture.
Each team then made a presentation to a panel of judges at the competition at IBS. This year’s project was in Aurora, Colo.
“Our competitive advantage was gained by the team’s exposure to industry as they prepared for the competition,” said David Hacker, president of Construction Specialties of North Florida and team coach. “More than a dozen professionals helped advise the team in their areas of expertise. This exposure enabled the students to not only develop a concise report, but to think critically, as industry does.
“During the presentation, the team was confident and accurately answered all questions from the judges. One judge’s comment was, ‘We felt like it was another business making the presentation, not a competition team,’” Hacker said.
He said the IBS competition is the premier event for student chapters, and it allows students to demonstrate their ability to solve construction-related problems. It’s also a time when they can interact with students from other bachelor’s degree programs in residential construction-related majors.
UNF’s student chapter relies on NEFBA for industry experience, support and guidance.
“Our team partners with industry experts through NEFBA,” Hacker said. “NEFBA helps us throughout the year and takes great pride in the team’s efforts.”
Alex Hepler was the team captain. Other members were Kristin Burgess, Anthony Williams, Jeannette Saliba, Scott Sullivan and Sam Giordano.
Hacker said financial support from local industry was necessary to allow the team to compete.
“As a state school, we cannot use university monies to support the team’s travel, lodging, food or conference fees,” he said. “Students, faculty, friends, family members and industry philanthropy are called upon for these expenses.
“We are all truly grateful for the support and are pleased that all those who contributed share in our win,” Hacker added. “Funds for the competition were raised 100 percent from industry. If it were not for the sponsors, we would not have been able to attend.”
Hacker said a career fair was held in conjunction with the competition.
“Representatives from multiple national builders attended the presentations,” he said. “Each one congratulated the team and asked about their plans following graduation. Several companies have already signed up for the UNF career fair. We could not have asked for better exposure for our construction management program.”