Meet the Association

Building Stronger Communities, One Home at a Time

For more than 70 years, the Northern Illinois Home Builders Association (NIHBA) has served as the trusted voice of the home building and remodeling industry across Northern Illinois. We unite the professionals who design, build, finance, and support the homes and communities where families live, work, and thrive.

 

Our Mission

“The Northern Illinois Home Builders Association (NIHBA) is dedicated to advancing the American Dream of accessible housing for all. We advocate for and elevate the home building industry, promote professional excellence, strengthen communities, and drive economic growth through job creation and opportunity.”

 

Who We Are

NIHBA is the largest home builders association in Illinois, representing a diverse and influential network of residential construction professionals throughout Northern Illinois. We connect, support, and advocate for industry leaders committed to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence in home building and remodeling.

Our Membership Includes:

  • Home Builders & Remodelers
  • Architects & Interior Designers
  • Developers & Civil Engineers
  • General Contractors & Skilled Trade Professionals
  • Building Material Suppliers & Manufacturers
  • Service Providers Supporting Residential Construction
  • Banks, Mortgage Lenders & Financial Institutions
  • Title Companies & Real Estate Services
  • And a broad range of trusted industry experts

Together, NIHBA members represent the full residential construction ecosystem in Northern Illinois working collaboratively to strengthen communities, support housing development, and drive regional economic growth.

What We Do

As an advocate, resource, and connector for our members, NIHBA works daily to:

  • Champion policies that support housing affordability and responsible development
  • Promote high standards of professionalism, ethics, and quality in the building industry
  • Provide education, networking, and business development opportunities
  • Strengthen the local economy through workforce development and job creation
  • Foster meaningful relationships that help businesses, communities, and families thrive

 

Where We Serve

NIHBA proudly serves the home building and remodeling industry throughout DuPage, Kane, Will, LaSalle, Lake, and DeKalb Counties.

 

Connected at Every Level

As part of a powerful three-tier membership structure, NIHBA members are also connected to statewide and national advocacy efforts through the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Illinois (HBRAI) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

 

Building the Future of Northern Illinois

When builders succeed, communities grow. NIHBA is proud to be the organization that brings the industry together to build a stronger future for Northern Illinois.

2026 NIHBA Staff & Leadership

STAFF

Becky Michels
Executive Officer
630-978-9000 ext. 1
Email Becky

Haley Casas
Marketing Coordinator
630-978-9000 ext. 2
Email Haley

EXECUTIVE Committee

President: Steve Jeffers – Revolution Builders Custom Homes

1st Vice President: Chad Mease – Redstart Construction

2nd Vice President: Andy Knapp – James Hardie Building Products

3rd Vice President: Scott Eckstein – Nicor Gas

Treasurer: Lionel Martinez – L. Martinez Construction

Secretary: Rich Cannavino – Cannavino Contractors

Immediate Past President: Cheryl Lee – CL Design-Build

Board of directors

Court Airhart – Airhart Construction

Chris Canova – U.S. Bank

Michael Dellenbach – Garbage Gorilla

Teresa Haish – Chicago Title

John Hall Jr. – John Hall Custom Homes

Todd Innocenzi – Sierra Pacific Windows

Matt Keim – Matt Keim Builders

Marcus Kyes – MWK Construction

Rosie Millen – Heritage Cabinetry & Design

Jeff Pawlowski – Monument Homes

Greg Overstreet – Overstreet Builders

Ken Schmidt – Huntington Bank

Bev Totsch – Tranquility Builders

Joe Tymoszenko – Parksite/DuPont Tyvek

Upcoming Events

Interior view of a well-designed home hallway and entryway showcasing craftsmanship by members of the Northern Illinois Home Builders Association