Check out the new and innovative products that caught our editors’ eyes on the IBS showfloor.

It’s my hope that you plan to attend the 2019 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS). The nation’s premier event for residential construction professionals will be held Feb. 19–21 in Las Vegas, and if you work in the home building industry, you really cannot afford to miss IBS.

There’s no better time to register than now as early-bird deals, which include rates starting at $50 for NAHB members and $100 for non-members, have been extended through Dec. 14.

This upcoming IBS marks the 75th anniversary of the show. One of the reasons behind its long-standing success is the value it provides to attendees. With a winning combination of networking opportunities, new product access, and educational content, people walk away with a lot of great business ideas.

The 2019 IBS will be co-located with the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) as part of Design and Construction Week (DCW) for the sixth straight year. This collaboration gives all IBS attendees free exhibit-floor access to KBIS. The two shows are expected to attract more than 2,000 exhibiting brands that will occupy over 1 million square feet of space.

IBS is also known for its educational content. Attendees purchasing a full registration can choose from over 130 curated sessions as well as learning formats including case studies, town halls, debates, and lightning rounds. A new educational component this year is the Game Changers series, which will feature high-profile experts discussing popular topics in home building, such as leadership and coaching; marketing to different age groups; and best practices of leading builders.

Other popular education sessions include the Master Sessions, Building Knowledge Sessions, and Spotlight Sessions, which cover new building techniques and trends and are led by industry thought leaders. Tech Bytes sessions provide hands-on instruction on the latest technologies and apps, while the High Performance Building Zone features construction demos of sustainable building practices. The IBS Centrals give attendees a chance to network and learn about remodeling, custom building, 55-plus housing, sales, design, and multifamily construction. Access to the Centrals is available to all IBS registrants.

There also are exclusive programs for NAHB members. The third annual Meeting of the Members provides an insider’s view of the association’s advocacy priorities. NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz will update members on the outlook of the industry, and Randi Zuckerberg, founder and CEO of Zuckerberg Media, will be the keynote speaker. The federation’s advocacy agenda will also be discussed at NAHB committee and leadership meetings. While in Las Vegas, don’t miss our two IBS show homes.

The New American Home incorporates a variety of minimalist, contemporary design elements while the New American Remodel features the latest sustainable building techniques and technologies.

IBS also offers many entertainment options, such as the DCW Opening Ceremonies featuring comedian Dana Carvey and the Blue Man Group, and an IBS Young Pro Party for professionals 40 and younger. To wrap things up on Feb. 21, the IBS Closing Spike Concert will feature a performance by the Goo Goo Dolls.

IBS offers many chances to learn, engage, and have a good time. I hope to see all of you at the show in February in Las Vegas.