by Dennis Ginder, Landon Homes

What an exciting time to be president of the Northeast Builders Association — exciting, challenging and rewarding all at once. I consider myself most fortunate to be at this place in my life and career and among the world’s best support system of dedicated business men and women in an industry that seeks to bring home ownership and the good life to as many people as possible.

I find it exciting because I believe we are on the way up. We survived some truly devastating years of a sagging economy. If we keep our eyes on the goal and keep true to our best operating practices, we will come out on top and stronger than ever.

It continues to be a challenge, of course. There is still some uncertainty and there are circumstances and policies we must face and factor into our march toward progress. We are no strangers to roadblocks, however, and we’ve learned much over the last several years in the way of overcoming obstacles.

And, this is a rewarding time, too, because now more than ever our best effort is required if we are to succeed. That relationship between effort and success is an important one. When we are exerting maximum effort, this is a time when we can realize maximum reward.

I had the privilege of observing and participating in the NEFBA process that seeks to prepare the association’s incoming president. With Barbara Moore as president in 2012, I was indeed fortunate to learn and absorb principles of leadership that will serve me well as I assume this awesome responsibility.

I, too, will be looking to the NEFBA Executive Committee for guidance and support as the year unfolds, and to our Executive Director Daniel Davis for his insight, moral direction and friendship.

To all our members, thank you. It is an honor to serve you. You are the key to our success, and I’ll be counting on you to strengthen your commitment to the association and the industry. I ask you to let me know your ideas, your concerns and your successes. Together, let’s make 2013 the best year ever for the building industry in Northeast Florida.