For immediate release

Contact: Annie Nommensen, Event & Education Manager, 262.436.1122

MBA Announces Educational Courses
Offered During February

 (Waukesha, WI) – January, 2008 – In today’s competitive business climate, it is critical for developers, builders, remodelers, and those affiliated with the construction industry to be able to separate themselves from the competition. That’s why the MBA introduced our Certified Construction Professional program in 2004. A CCP designation speaks to an individual’s dedication to continuing education as well as his or her dedication to the customer and the home building industry. Educated professionals are more likely to educate their customers on the latest technologies available in the home building industry. Professionals who are constantly learning and challenging themselves are not afraid to share new techniques and applications with their customers. The MBA is proud to report that in the third year of the CCP program, over 400 MBA members are well on their way to certification.

In the month of February, the following courses are available to MBA members and other professionals:

* Unless otherwise noted, all classes are held at the Metropolitan Builders Association, N16 W23321 Stone Ridge Dr., Waukesha

February 7th - SMC Roundtable: Ideas to Effectively Market to Builders This roundtable will provide industry professionals an opportunity to hone their professional skills to achieve greater success in sales and marketing to builders and will provide tips when working with builders.Cost:  $10 MBA member/$20 non-member Class Time:  7:45 a.m. ­ 9:00 a.m.
No CCP Credit Hours

February 14th – Taxation of the Construction Industry, an Overview
Presented by: Ralph Redlin, Sitzberger, Widmann & Company, S.C.
This course will address Income, Excise, Sales/Use, and Property taxes; all of which are of concern to the construction enterprise as it approaches planning for compliance with sometimes difficult laws and reporting/recordkeeping regulations. The course will also examine opportunities to take advantage of tax law provisions to most favorably impact the appropriate timing of sales, income and purchases reporting as well as the claiming of deductions. Learn about the latest developments in the selection of taxable entity, recordkeeping, and Employee versus Independent Contractor. Cost:  $30 MBA member/$50 non-member Class Time:  9:00 a.m. ­ 11:00 a.m. CCP Credit Hours:  2.0 hours in the Business Practices Series

February 20th – Building Science & Design Conference
Country Springs Hotel and Conference Center in Pewaukee
Presented by:  Various Speakers & Various Sponsors
The premier trade show and educational conference for the housing and remodeling industry in Wisconsin. The MBA’s 7th annual conference is dedicated to educating the residential construction industry on issues ranging from energy efficiency, green building, building science, home performance, and much more.  This event offers industry professionals the opportunity to stay current with the latest trends and products that are changing the industry.  A total of 4 different breakout rooms offer numerous educational courses throughout the day from speakers throughout the nation. Cost:  $100 before or on February 13th, $200 after February 13th – MBA member / $150 before or on February 13th, $300 after February 13th – Non-member Class Time:  8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. with trade show starting at 7:00 a.m. CCP Credit Hours:  8.0 hours in the Construction/Development Series

The MBA is a non-profit and non-partisan association which represents the building industry in the metropolitan Milwaukee area. The MBA develops and offers education for consumers as well as members. By establishing business ethics and industry standards, the MBA has earned a reputation as a trusted resource. Consumers enjoy our promotions for housing and housing products, while members take part in our professional and social activities throughout the year. The MBA has a long standing tradition of giving back to the community through a variety of philanthropic ventures.