When selecting our five core values, dedication rose to the top of the list because it describes how we approach our clients, projects, and craft. It accurately describes how we approach our work; we are dedicated to providing exceptional service by being masters in our field. This is why continuing education is so important to us. We aim to be the expert – ready to answer any question with creative ideas, approaches, products, industry trends, and solutions that are always top of mind.
Four Ways We Keep Current:
1. Earning Industry Certifications
Earning certifications and prioritizing continuing education shows our commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices. As evidence of this, our Designer, Courtney Wall, recently earned the Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD) certification from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). This is a prestigious recognition of her expertise in designing kitchens and bathrooms that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
Courtney’s BA in Design from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) helped streamline the application process for the NKBA certification exam, as it demonstrated her education and experience in the field. Still, earning the CKBD certification is no easy feat.
Courtney completed a rigorous 6-month training program which covered required study material, including three books from NKBA: Bath Planning Guidelines, Codes, Standards; Kitchen Planning Guidelines, Codes, Standards; and Kitchen & Bath Design Presentation. A wide range of topics was covered: design history, accessibility, sustainability, universal design, infrastructure considerations, mechanical planning (plumbing, electrical, etc.), and NKBA requirements for drawings and documentation. This certification is a testament to Courtney’s knowledge and skill in designing kitchens and bathrooms that are functional, safe, and beautiful.
2. Attending Industry Events and Seminars
Since our firm’s founding over 35 years ago, our team has been active participants in countless industry events. Here are just a few that we prioritize:
Remodelers Advantage Summits: At the 2022 summit in Washington D.C., President Jeff McLinden and Construction Manager Justin McLinden gleaned valuable insights from the three keynote speakers and the four educational tracks and 30 breakout sessions. Read their takeaways here.
Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS): Courtney has attended the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), which is North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design. Inspiration abounds at these national events.
Pro New England’s Youth Remodeling Career Day: We not only encourage our own education but contribute to the education of the next generation as well. See what we built with Metrowest tech students at Pro New England’s Youth Remodeling Career Day.
Wellesley Kitchen & Home Tour: There’s no better place to get ideas than attending this local home tour hosted in a town where we do most of our work!
Did you know that since 2015, 35% of our remodels have been done in Wellesley? We can’t wait to see what the Wellesley Hills Junior Women’s Club has in store for us this year!
3. Networking with Peers
Remodelers Advantage Round Tables: These round table discussions have helped us reflect on our own business practices, and we have learned so much from the experiences of other design/build firms. Read more about our affiliation with Remodeler’s Advantage and how this collaboration has improved our business and service over the years.
Participating in Professional Organizations: Networking with other remodeling professionals has been key to keeping current and in-the-know of trending topics and approaches to remodeling.
We have aligned with Pro New England and National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
JM Constructions appreciates the insights and inspiration we have learned from these connections and affiliations.
4. Browsing Industry Resources
After a brief chat with Courtney, she’ll share the websites she visits regularly to give you the project ideas you are looking for. One go-to that she recommends for inspiration is Houzz. There are loads of good ideas featured in Houzz that will get your creative juices flowing.
We follow various design-focused social media pages for current trends, like Architectural Digest. A local magazine that we love to browse is the Wellesley Weston magazine. Not only do we learn what’s happening in town, but we also enjoy seeing the beautiful designs featured in local Metrowest homes.
If you’re looking for a Designer who is up-to-date with the trends and can help you create your dream space, JM Construction is an excellent choice. Share your project ideas with us here and request a consultation.
