What an honor and privilege to be stepping into this awesome position as president of the Northeast Florida Builders Association.
I’ve been preparing for this for three years, and I’m aware of how much help and support it will take to make this a successful year.
NEFBA’s executive committee is a behind-the-scenes resource that deserves much credit for NEFBA’s long-term, as well as recent, growth and strong reputation.
Harlan Bost, Lee Arsenault, Keith Ward, Gene Rover, Chris Dostie and Rick Morales, our immediate past president, will be my partners as we work together to achieve goals, move the association forward and continue the proud legacy of this association.
Our association has done a great job in regard to its four pillars: networking, advocacy, education and charity. And, I want to see us do even more, particularly in the areas of education and charitable outreach.
To succeed, membership must continue to be a major focus. Rick Morales’ commitment to membership last year has moved us to fifth largest HBA in the nation. It was a phenomenal accomplishment and one I want to carry forward.
I want us to enlarge our vision of educational opportunities. NEFBA is the logical source to provide training in marketing, technology, workplace safety, regulations and standards for all levels of personnel.
Our charitable outreach arm, Builders Care, is taking steps to re-establish its original mission, which was to alleviate the problem of substandard housing. This, too, is an area that NEFBA members are the most logical to offer a solution.
Our biggest hurdle to achieving these goals is apathy and lack of active participation. It’s a fact that members who receive the most benefit are those who choose to attend meetings, volunteer, sponsor events and become involved.
When a member pays dues and doesn’t show up, that member is not likely to see any benefit. I urge all our members to make the most of their investment.
It takes a commitment of time, but considering the potential benefits — business growth, personal advancement, industry stability, it is a small price to pay. Talk to our most successful members and learn from them.
I look forward to the opportunities ahead, and I plan to take the advice of past president Greg Matovina. Greg recently suggested I approach this job with a servant’s heart. I think that’s good advice no matter what your position. So, my first step is to let you know I’m here to serve you.
Sincerely,
Chet Skinner, Skinner Bros. Realty