Women from across the lumber and building materials industry gathered September 16–18 in Orlando for the inaugural FBMA Women of Lumber & Building Materials Summit. The three-day event brought together industry professionals for leadership development, networking, mentorship and conversations about the future of the industry.

With a focus on building connections, confidence and leadership, the Summit featured inspiring speakers, interactive panels and opportunities to learn from women who are making an impact across the construction and building materials industries.

A highlight of the event was the Student & Industry Leadership Panel featuring Cindy Hall from HBI’s Future Builders of America, Perlla Deluca from Southeast Constructors, and Sterling & Ocean Prettelt, FBA Alumi and students currently enrolled at Santa Fe College. The focus was on developing the next generation of industry leaders. The conversation emphasized the importance of reaching young people early, introducing them to the many career opportunities available in the industry, and providing mentorship and encouragement as they begin their careers.

The Summit also celebrated women who are already helping shape the future through the Women Building the Future special edition of Built America Magazine, highlighting women and companies making a difference throughout the industry.

More than just a conference, the Summit created a space for women to connect, share experiences and build relationships that can continue well beyond the event.

The message was clear: women aren't just part of the future of the lumber and building materials industry—they are helping build it today.

The NAHB National Competition Project will be released in August. Here is the timeline:

2027 Student Competition Timeline Draft:

Aug. 21, 2026 — Project Posted

Oct. 13, 2026 — Registration Deadline* (this is separate from membership dues)

Oct. 13, 2026 — National Housing Endowment IBS Scholarship Application due

Oct. 20-23, 2026 — Live Q&A Webinar with project sponsor (link to join will be sent to registered teams)

Nov. 17, 2026 — Team List Due (completed through registration portal)

Dec. 1, 2026 — Last Day to Withdraw from Competition

Dec. 15, 2026 — Projects Due (submitted through Dropbox link provided)

Feb. 1-2, 2027 — Presentation Dates (in-person, Las Vegas). 2027 NAHB Student Competition presentation schedules will be posted as soon as available (subject to change). Stream live on NAHBTV YouTube

Feb. 3, 2027 — Judges Debriefing (morning, time TBD)

Feb. 3, 2027 — Award Ceremony (in-person, Las Vegas, 3:30-4:30 p.m. ET), watch live on NAHB TV YouTube

Be Part of the FBA Leadership Summit

Every year, the Future Builders of America (FBA) Leadership Summit brings students, educators, industry professionals, alumni, and volunteers together for an unforgettable hands-on experience that builds more than structures—it builds confidence, leadership, teamwork, and connections that can last a lifetime.

The annual Leadership Summit is made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers who work behind the scenes and on-site to create meaningful opportunities for students to learn, lead, and experience the many career possibilities within the construction industry.

Now, we’re looking for more people to join the Leadership Summit Committee!

Whether you are an FBA alumnus, construction industry professional, educator, contractor, supplier, or simply someone who believes in investing in the next generation, there is a place for you on the committee. Members help with planning, projects, student activities, industry partnerships, fundraising, logistics, and the many details that make the Summit a success.

You don’t have to be an expert or have years of experience. What matters most is your willingness to share your time, talents, ideas, and connections with students who are preparing for their future.

By joining the Leadership Summit Committee, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Help shape an experience that students will remember for years to come.
• Connect with other professionals who are passionate about construction and workforce development.
• Mentor and encourage students as they explore careers in our industry.
• Share your skills, knowledge, and real-world experience.
• Help strengthen the connection between FBA programs and the construction industry.
• Give back to a program that is helping develop the next generation of builders and leaders.

The future of our industry starts with the people we invest in today.

If you’ve ever wanted to get more involved with FBA, the Leadership Summit is a great place to start. Bring your ideas, your experience, and your enthusiasm—and help us make the next Summit even better.



Join the FBA Leadership Summit Committee and help build the future, one student at a time!

Thank you to our Founder's Circle Members for your support of FBA!

Founder's Circle Donors are contributors who have pledged a minimum of $1,000.00 to support Future Builders of America. Donors receive a perpetual plaque, are recognized on the FBA Donor Website and receive a lapel pin with the number of years participating as a Founder's Circle Member.

2026

Jeff Braun, Coastal Building Contractors, Treasure Coast BA - 14 Yrs

Greater Orlando Builders Association (GOBA) - 9 Yrs

Michelle Delaney, LRA Insurance, Greater Orlando BA - 20 Yrs

Treasure Coast Builders Association, Treasure Coast BA - 11 Yrs

Bill Truex, Truex Preferred Construction, Charlotte-Desoto - 10 Yrs

John Carlson, Wharton Smith Inc, Suncoast BA - 9 Yrs

2025*

Beth Cantin, Cantin Homes, Charlotte-Desoto BIA - 15 Yrs

Chris Sorenson, CEA Building Group, Treasure Coast BA - 8 Yrs

Mike Hickman, Hickman Homes, Polk County BA - 16 Yrs

Wendy Dittmar, Manning Building Supplies, Treasure Coast BA - 10 Yrs

Bud Dorman, White Aluminum, HBA of Lake-Sumter - 5 Yrs

* Renewals occur throughout the year and are not prorated.

Friend of FBA*

Susan Burns, Builders Association of South Florida - 4 Yrs

* FBA Friends contribute monthly to FBA