In the “Our Team” section of the website my name is listed and then followed by a series of initials: CGR, CGB, CGP, CAPS. Listed out like that, they may look impressive; but they may not seem to have a whole lot of meaning nor much bearing on the kind of work we are able to do for you. In a series of blog articles, I’ll explain the meaning of each abbreviation and describe why I invested the time and money into earning the right to use these initials—for the sake of the jobs we undertake for you.
These initials are actually “designations” awarded by the University of Housing, which is the educational branch of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The NAHB has approximately 50,000 Builder Members across the country, of which McBride Construction is one. One of the primary purposes of the NAHB is to improve the professionalism of its members in order to provide better quality housing stock throughout the country. For that purpose, they have developed educational curricula concentrating on the kinds of projects that builders and remodelers throughout the country undertake. They have also selected experts from around the country to teach the classes required by any particular curriculum. When a student meets the requirements of the designation by taking classes, exhibiting experience, and passing examinations, they graduate and are entitled to use that designation after their name—for a period of 3 years. To keep the designation beyond that, they keep taking Continuing Education classes. What this means is that the builders and remodelers who hold these designations stay on the top of their game.
If you are considering a building or remodeling project, consider your options:
- You could choose a contractor who does not invest in ongoing education. They do the work to the best of their knowledge, but it may not be using the latest best practices of the industry. They are as good as what they have been able to learn through experience.
- Or you could choose a contractor who is committed to investing in continuing education. This contractor has a network of associates who are the best in the country and is able to gain from their experience. This contractor dialogs with others who also strive to build businesses that provide a great customer experience. They learn about new and upcoming laws and regulations, so that they can complete jobs without unnecessary interruptions and unexpected costs. This contractor stays on top of new products and trends, so that they can educate their clients about possibilities which they hadn’t even yet envisioned.
This contractor has invested time and money into building themselves and their company to be able to offer unequaled service and the most satisfactory of results. As a result of this investment, they have a network of people from around the country who can advise them when they meet challenging situations. They are committed to their clients’ for the long haul. After investing so much into their professionalism and business, they can’t leave it all behind easily.
Because of my commitment to providing excellence to my customers, I’ve chosen to continually train myself and my crew on the latest best practices in the industry. I’ve joined and been active in the association. I’ve traveled to where the courses were offered. I’ve networked with the best minds in the industry. I’ve learned so much—and I’m still learning. I’ve passed the tests and earned the designations. And over the years, as I was investing in my education and in my company, we’ve remained here as solid as a rock for over 30 years.
Stay tuned for explanations of each designation and how those designations can mean better results for your project.
