Each fall, leaders from across the country gather for the NAHB Fall Leadership Meetings, a cornerstone event where the business of the Federation takes place. These meetings provide an essential opportunity for NAHB’s leadership to make decisions that help shape the future of the association and the home building industry as a whole. Through committee meetings, councils, and leadership sessions, members work together to advance advocacy priorities, address emerging challenges, and strengthen the collective voice of builders nationwide. The outcomes of these discussions directly influence policy positions, resources, and strategic direction at every level of the Federation.
This year’s Fall Leadership Meetings were held November 17–19, 2025, in Denver, and the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire was proud to have delegates in attendance. Our delegates joined fellow leaders from state and local HBAs across the country, participating in committee work while also connecting with peers from other associations. These interactions, both inside and outside the meeting rooms, are a vital part of Fall Leadership, allowing members to share ideas, learn from one another, and bring valuable insights and best practices back to their local markets.
Key Issues and Industry Direction
One of the most prominent themes throughout the meetings was the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the home building industry. Discussions explored how AI could be used to streamline processes such as plan reviews and permitting-potentially reducing timelines from weeks to minutes—while also examining broader applications that could impact nearly every aspect of a builder’s business. Members approved a resolution to further research AI for the building industry, recognizing both its promise and the importance of thoughtful, responsible implementation.
Economic conditions were also front and center. NAHB Chief Economist Dr. Robert Dietz provided an in-depth housing market outlook, noting that the industry continues to face a housing shortage and ongoing affordability challenges. While mortgage rates are expected to gradually decline, meaningful relief is still projected to be several years away. Building material costs continue to rise modestly, with some impact from tariffs, which ultimately affect housing affordability for consumers.
Despite these challenges, new single-family construction and residential remodeling are expected to see steady growth in the coming years.
Advocacy, Policy, and Committee Work
Our delegates participated in a wide range of committee and council meetings focused on issues critical to builders, including environmental policy, workforce development, codes, affordability, and government overreach. One notable update came from the Environmental Issues Committee, which reviewed the recently revised Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. NAHB has worked closely with federal agencies on this revision, which provides clearer definitions and limits federal jurisdiction, representing a meaningful step forward for builders nationwide.
Area 10 Caucus and Regional Collaboration
The Area 10 Caucus meetings brought together leadership from North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin to discuss shared regional challenges and opportunities. These conversations emphasized collaboration across state and local HBAs and reinforced the importance of strong, unified builder representation at the national level, particularly on regulatory and affordability issues affecting the Upper Midwest.
Members also received an update on upcoming Area 10 events. The 2026 Area 10 Leadership Conference will be hosted in Madison, Wisconsin, on April 23–24, at the Monona Terrace Convention Center. This annual gathering provides builders and association leaders another valuable opportunity to engage, learn, and connect with peers from across the region. More information on this event can be found on page 23.
Education, Leadership, and What’s Next
Education and leadership development were recurring themes throughout Fall Leadership. NAHB continues to expand credentialing opportunities and improve access to business tools and educational resources designed to support members at every stage of their careers. There was also strong encouragement for more members to get involved at the national level, serving on committees, councils, and leadership roles where their experience and perspective can help guide the future of the industry.
That momentum continues with the next major NAHB leadership and education opportunity: the International Builders’ Show (IBS), taking place February 17–19, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. IBS is the largest annual gathering of residential construction professionals in the world, offering cutting-edge education, business solutions, and unmatched networking opportunities. In addition to the expansive show floor and education sessions, IBS also hosts key leadership meetings where important committee work, policy discussions, and votes take place.
Why It Matters
The NAHB Fall Leadership Meetings and the opportunities that follow are about more than reports and resolutions. They represent the collective strength of the Federation: local, state, and national leaders working together to advocate for housing, elevate professionalism, and ensure builders have a strong voice in decisions that impact our industry.
We thank our delegates for representing the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire and for bringing these insights back to our membership. Their involvement ensures our local perspective is part of the national conversation and helps keep our association informed, engaged, and prepared for what’s ahead.
As we look ahead to IBS in Orlando and the 2026 Area 10 Leadership Conference in Madison, we encourage members to consider participating. The future of our industry and our association is shaped by those who show up, stay engaged, and lead.
