From the Executive Officer
Looking Ahead
By the time many of you are reading this, Independence Day will be just around the corner. If all goes as planned, I’ll be sitting at my desk later this week, glancing out the window every few minutes, waiting for Air Force One to make its approach over the Black Hills on its way to the fireworks celebration at Mount Rushmore. It’s not every day you get to watch history fly past your office window. Moments like that are a good reminder of how fortunate we are to call South Dakota home.
As we head into the second half of the year, I’ve found myself wearing a few different hats—and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Some days are spent behind the computer preparing board packets, committee agendas, newsletters, and keeping the Association running smoothly. Other days are dedicated to planning meetings and events, supporting our committees, or working with our volunteer leaders to move important initiatives forward.
Lately, a significant portion of my time has been focused on one of the most exciting projects our Association has ever undertaken—Be Pro Be Proud South Dakota. As we prepare to launch a $4 million capital campaign, every meeting, presentation, and conversation brings us one step closer to introducing thousands of South Dakota students to the incredible opportunities available in the skilled trades. The momentum continues to build, and I couldn’t be more excited about where we’re headed.
The past few months have also provided opportunities to learn and represent our Association. I had the privilege of attending the South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s annual conference, and I would encourage more of our members to attend next year. The conversations surrounding housing affordability, workforce development, and partnerships are valuable and directly impact our industry.
I also enjoyed attending the SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference, where it’s always inspiring to watch talented students showcase their skills and enthusiasm for careers in construction and the trades. Their passion reminds us why investing in workforce development is so important.
Representing South Dakota at the NAHB Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., was another highlight. Meeting with our congressional delegation and discussing the issues affecting builders back home reinforces the importance of having a strong voice for our industry.
This year, I’ll be skipping the Association Management Conference, but for good reason. Instead, I’ll be attending the Be Pro Be Proud National Conference in Nashville to gather ideas, build relationships, and bring back resources that will help make our South Dakota program a success.
Looking ahead to August, I’m excited to reconnect with South Dakota State University’s Construction Management Department as we explore the opportunity to once again send a South Dakota student team to compete in the International Builders’ Show Student Competition. Supporting future industry leaders has always been one of my favorite parts of this job, and I hope this becomes another tradition we can build together.
The calendar never seems to slow down, but that’s a good problem to have. Every meeting attended, every partnership formed, and every initiative we pursue is focused on one goal—making the South Dakota Home Builders Association stronger and creating more opportunities for our members.
I hope you have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day with family and friends. As we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve this Association and work alongside so many dedicated volunteers and members who continue to move our industry forward.
Here’s to an exciting second half of 2026. We’ve got a lot to look forward to.
