June 27, 2011
Nation's Building News

The Official Online Newspaper of NAHB

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Professional Women in Building
Bunce, Houston, McDaniel Awarded 'Women of the Future' Continuing Education Grants


Marilyn Bunce


Kimmi Houston


Kathie McDaniel

Builders Marilyn Bunce and Kimmi Houston and marketing specialist Kathie McDaniel were recently awarded NAHB’s Professional Women in Building “Women of the Future” grants, continuing education grants they can use to further their careers by taking courses and obtaining certifications.

Underwritten by national cabinet manufacturer, Merillat, the grants help advance women working in all aspects of the construction industry — business owners, marketing experts, interior designers and more. 

“Merillat presents this grant to support these outstanding women’s increased involvement in the industry, as they further their careers and serve as role models and mentors,” said Sarah Reep, director of design relations and education.

“In an industry historically dominated by men, our continued education is especially important as women are increasingly becoming major players. We understand that knowledge about the industry and a passion for obtaining it ensure progress with creativity and excitement,” she said.

The 2011 “Women of the Future” grant recipients are:

  • Marilyn Bunce, Professional Women in Building of Onslow County, N.C.

    Bunce, the president of Town and Country Building Company in Jacksonville, N.C., has a goal to be one of the most respected builders in her area. To achieve this, she is pursuing an Accredited Builder designation and plans to follow that with an Accredited Master Builder designation.

    “It is imperative that we get the education and updated information we need to stay informed about new requirements and trends in the industry,” Bunce said.

  • Kimmi Houston, Central Oklahoma Builders Association Professional Women in Building

    Houston, the owner of Houston Homes in Edmond, Okla., has repositioned her company in these challenging times to concentrate more on remodeling and working with clients seeking aging-in-place solutions. 

    She has earned a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designation and is working towards certification as an NAHB-approved instructor of CAPS courses. Her goal is to give back to the industry by providing needed information to industry professionals in her area.

  • Kathie McDaniel, Member at Large, Lakeland, Fla.

    McDaniel, a marketing specialist for Highland Homes, believes in the importance of green building and is working to become an expert in green resources for her company.

    A true NAHB professional, McDaniel’s designations include Certified New Home Sales Professional, Certified New Home Marketing Professional and Master in Residential Marketing. She is also working towards certification as an NAHB-approved trainer.

Winners of the 2011 grant were chosen for their range of experience and commitment to the industry. Additionally, they demonstrate an interest in advancing their careers and mentoring professional women in the industry as they build their businesses through continuing education.

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