This fall, Washington, D.C. isn’t just the capital of the United States – it’s the beating heart of the home building industry. From Sept. 29–30, top builders, suppliers and thought leaders from across the country will gather for The Summit by CBUSA, a two-day experience unlike anything else in residential construction.
Hosted in one of America’s most iconic cities, The Summit blends inspiration, insight and invaluable connection into a builder-first event that delivers lasting impact. And this year’s theme, “United We Build,” reflects a shared sense of purpose – one where unity, collaboration and a commitment to progress become the foundation for something bigger than any single builder can accomplish alone.
Rooted in the enduring American principle “United we stand, divided we fall,” the theme celebrates the collaborative spirit that defines CBUSA. In a world where fragmentation often weakens small and independent custom home builders, this Summit stands as a rally cry: together, we are stronger. Through shared knowledge, resources and resolve, our community doesn’t just survive – it leads.
Here’s why CBUSA builder members who mean business are making D.C. their destination this fall.
1. Learn from the minds shaping the future of building
This year’s speaker lineup brings together powerhouse voices from across the housing, economic and media landscape – and they’re not just talking theory. These are professionals shaping markets and leading global transformation. Prepare to walk away from our keynote sessions with takeaways that immediately impact how you run your business. Keynote speakers include:
Stephen Kim, senior managing director and head of Evercore ISI’s Housing Research Team
Stephen Kim has been ranked the No. 1 housing analyst on Extel’s All-America Research Team every year since 2016. Known for his precision in reading market trends and his deep understanding of both the new and resale housing sectors, Stephen coined the term “iBuyer” in 2017 and continues to influence the national conversation around residential construction. Expect a data-backed look at what’s coming next in the economy – and how smart builders can stay ahead.
Alexis Glick, former Fox Business anchor
From Wall Street to the White House press room, Alexis Glick brings a commanding voice to The Summit stage. She’s a former American television personality, who was an anchor of “Money for Breakfast” and “The Opening Bell” on Fox Business, as well as the Vice President of Business News. She has interviewed world leaders such as President Barack Obama, Secretary of the Treasury, and former Secretary Of Commerce Gary Locke, Henry Paulson, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and former Irish head of state John Bruton. Glick is the founder and current CEO of the GENYOUth Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing child health and wellness through improved nutrition and physical activity. At The Summit, Alexis will offer sharp insight into how builders can navigate the intersection of economic volatility and long-term business growth.
General Richard A. Cody (USA, Ret.), Former Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army
A master Army aviator and leadership icon, General Cody has served in six combat divisions and logged over 5,000 flight hours. His command includes the famed 101st Airborne Division, and his post-military work champions veterans through organizations like Homes For Our Troops. At The Summit, he’ll speak to the power of disciplined leadership, team resilience and mission-driven execution – lessons every builder can use.
Jim Tobin, NAHB President and CEO
Jim Tobin, CAE, serves as president and CEO of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), bringing more than two decades of experience in housing policy and association leadership. Tobin began his career with NAHB in 1998, initially representing the western United States in Congress. Over time, he expanded his policy focus to include environmental and tax issues. Before being named CEO, he held the role of executive vice president and chief lobbyist, overseeing the association’s lobbying and political efforts at the federal, state and local levels. Earlier in his career, Tobin worked on Capitol Hill as a senior legislative assistant to former U.S. Representatives Frank Riggs (California) and Gary Franks (Connecticut).
2. Connect in iconic spaces that spark real conversations
In construction, the job gets done face to face – and The Summit is designed to honor that truth with plenty of time for networking.
While the day sessions and breakout discussions will take place in a centrally located hotel for convenience, the collaboration doesn’t stop there. We’ve curated evening venues that go beyond the ordinary, offering unforgettable settings perfect for forging life-long connections with suppliers and builders alike.
Monday, Sept. 29 – The Vue Rooftop Bar
Kick off The Summit with panoramic views of D.C.’s most iconic monuments. The Vue offers an atmosphere that’s equal parts sophistication and celebration — the perfect spot to relax, connect and start building relationships that last.
Tuesday, Sept. 30 – The National Building Museum
Take a private tour of one of the most stunning architectural spaces in the country. With soaring columns and rich history, this venue reflects the craftsmanship and vision that drive our industry. Live entertainment, great food and even better company will round out an evening made just for the best in home building.
These evenings aren’t just photo ops – they’re memory makers, conversation starters and deal sealers.
3. Explore an expo designed for builder success
Forget the usual vendor maze. The Summit’s supplier expo is intentionally curated with high-impact partners offering real solutions for real builders. You’ll have direct access to products and services that can boost your margins, elevate your builds and streamline your business.
Looking for smarter materials? Better buying power? The newest tech? You’ll find it here – and get the chance to talk one-on-one with the people behind the brands. This is where great partnerships begin.
4. Get practical strategies for the field
Builders don’t need fluff — they need frameworks. That’s why The Summit’s educational sessions are built around actionable insight.
Through dynamic breakout sessions, attendees will dive into topics like:
- Leveraging AI to optimize operations and decision-making
- Advancing building science for improved energy efficiency and sustainability
- Creating scalable succession plans to ensure long-term business continuity
Each session is crafted to offer step-by-step guidance, field-tested ideas and collaborative discussion with peers who face the same challenges you do. You won’t just leave inspired – you’ll leave equipped.
Want to see what last year looked like? Read our 2024 recap.
5. Experience a builder community that’s truly united
It’s no secret: Being an independent builder can feel isolating. But The Summit changes that. For two days, you’re surrounded by peers who not only understand your challenges but are actively solving them.
The CBUSA network isn’t just a group of members. It’s a coalition. It’s builders sharing best practices, suppliers who act like partners and teams driven by shared purpose.
Here’s what some of last year’s attendees had to say about the Summit:
“This has been such an amazing experience. If you’re looking to take your business to the next level, learn things from real professionals and meet people from across the industry, this is the place to be. There’s not another event like it.”
— Brad Robinson, Bradford Custom Homes and Remodeling
“I came here expecting to meet builders like me. I’ve been blown away by the quality of the product, the sophistication of the people and the level of insight that comes out of this community.”
— Nathan Vandenbroek, Hygge Design + Build
“I truly believe in what CBUSA and The Summit does – bringing builders together through the program, the opportunities, the network. I’ve experienced so much benefit from it; I want to pass that along. We’re all elevated when one of us is.”
— Steven Sanders-Myers, Brightwater Homes
When builders unite under a shared mission, real progress happens. We don’t just build homes – we build each other up.
Don’t watch from the sidelines. Join the movement.
The Summit by CBUSA is more than a conference. It’s a movement. A mission. A statement that together, United We Build.
You’ll leave Washington, D.C. with:
- Strategies that work
- Contacts that count
- A vision that sharpens your purpose
- And a renewed drive to lead your market
✏️ View the agenda and register now
🎟️ Visit CBUSA.us for more insights
This is your industry. This is your community. This is your moment.
We’ll see you in D.C. 🇺🇸