Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1496538
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Respect the Past, Embrace the Future BY JERRY HALL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MBAKS JHALL@MBAKS.COM ACCOUNTABLE COLLABORATIVE DEDICATED INNOVATIVE RECOGNIZING RESPECTFUL MBAKS CORE VALUES Spring is in the air. It's a season of renewal and change, and an opportune time to think about past success and what success might look like in the future—for homebuilders and the communities we serve. Back in 1909, a group of Seattle builders concerned about the quality of home construction formed the Seattle Master Builders Association. That association has grown and evolved over a century to become the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties, and it has stood the test of time. The historic homes we still see in Seattle neighborhoods like Capitol Hill are a testament to the enduring quality of the work done by the original members of the Seattle Master Builders Association. They've also stood the test of time. But not without a lot of work. These old houses have required remodeling, restoration, and ongoing maintenance to remain both beautiful and functional. They not only showcase the artistry of their original builders, but also the creativity and expertise of so many contemporary MBAKS members—architects, builders, and tradespeople such as carpenters, framers, drywall installers, electricians, and more. Like these older homes, MBAKS needs change in order to remain relevant and valuable to members and the general public. No association can last forever without maintenance and renovation—keeping the roots healthy while encouraging new growth. Just as remodelers have reworked classic homes to save their beauty, new leaders, boards of directors, and staff members have a responsibility to renovate the association, honoring the past while embracing the future with both incremental updates and thoughtful innovation. In the end, MBAKS must balance tradition and progress, evolving over time with new leaders and initiatives that honor our traditions while establishing new ones. If we do it right, we'll still be here in 100 years right alongside the classic homes of the future we're building right now. Just as remodelers have reworked classic homes to save their beauty, new leaders, boards of directors, and staff members have a responsibility to renovate the association, honoring the past while embracing the future. 7 SPRING 2023 | master BUILDER IN EVERY ISSUE