David Hacker of Construction Specialties of North Florida was first introduced to NEFBA as a student in the University of North Florida’s Construction Management Program.
The very first NEFBA general membership/board meeting he attended was held at the Trinity Rescue Mission. The association had just completed construction of the rescue mission’s new building and was celebrating its grand opening.
The NEFBA board, the mayor and many other area and industry leaders were in attendance. It was there he decided he wanted to be a part of NEFBA.
Hacker was active as a student member for two years prior to Glenn Layton approaching him about “officially joining.”
Layton told him, “David, I am going be the NEFBA president next year and I want to put you on the board. Now fill out this application and put me down as your sponsor.”
Hacker notes, “Glenn is not an easy person to say ‘no’ to. Looking back, following Glenn’s lead seven years ago was by far one of the best decisions I could have made.”
After becoming a member, Hacker recalled walking into a general membership/board meeting and someone saying, “Aren’t you the UNF guy?”
As a board member, this is the type of relationship Hacker tries to foster between the association and the school.
“As an associate, being a member also allows me to see firsthand the things that are important to builders,” Hacker added. “New homebuilders are our primary market, so what is important to them, is important to us.”
Hacker currently serves as the Remodelers Council chair. He is an active member of the NEFBA board, Builders Care board, and Sales and Marketing Council.
Through his participation, he is building strong relationships and learning alongside other associates who also work with builders.
Hacker said being a part of NEFBA is a great way to make sure his company is competitive and adequately serving the market.
“The networking has led to friendships and seasoned members have now become mentors,” he said.
NEFBA Executive Officer Corey Deal said, “Members like David are what makes this association go through his participation of both time and resources and I am very proud to have him serving as one of our board members.”
Hacker said his message to all members is: “The single most important thing any new member can do is to make the time to get involved.”
“There are enough activities to completely fill up your calendar, take advantage of them,” he said. “After a short while, networking functions will become gatherings with your extended family.”