Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Construction and Building Industry Partner in Wausau, WI
Established in 1967, the Wausau Area Builders Association serves as a professional non-profit trade organization dedicated to advancing the building industry. Our association represents builders, developers, suppliers, and related professionals committed to promoting quality, affordable housing through community engagement and government collaboration. We actively support workforce development initiatives, including partnerships with local schools and scholarship programs, while fostering industry standards through advocacy and professional networking.Our members participate in community-building efforts like the annual Parade of Homes and Home Shows, alongside charitable programs such as the Building Youth into Builders Grant. With affiliations to the Wisconsin Builders Association and National Association of Home Builders, we provide a platform for industry professionals to connect, grow, and contribute to the region's economic and social fabric.
Services
Home Shows
Parade of Homes
Member Directory
Advocacy
Workforce Development
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- We advocate for industry interests at local, state, and national levels.
- Our members receive exclusive networking and professional development opportunities.
- We host community-building events like the annual Parade of Homes.
- We provide workforce development programs and educational partnerships.
- Our association distributes scholarships and supports local causes annually.
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Home Builders
- Wisconsin Builders Association
Services
Home Shows
Our annual Home Shows connect consumers with local building professionals, showcasing the latest products and services. These events provide educational opportunities, direct vendor interaction, and inspiration for home improvement projects. Attendees benefit from exclusive access to industry experts and special event promotions.
Parade of Homes
The Parade of Homes offers guided tours of newly constructed and renovated properties across the region. This event highlights local craftsmanship, innovative design trends, and energy-efficient building practices. Virtual tour options ensure accessibility for all interested homebuyers and industry enthusiasts.
Workforce Development
We partner with educational institutions to develop workforce training initiatives, including classroom instruction and hands-on construction experience. Our programs address industry labor shortages through youth engagement, skill development workshops, and career pathway guidance for aspiring builders.
Community Grants
Through our Building Youth into Builders Grant Program and annual scholarships, we invest in future industry leaders. These initiatives fund classroom resources, vocational training equipment, and educational opportunities for students pursuing construction-related careers.
Industry Advocacy
We represent members' interests in legislative and regulatory matters affecting the building industry. Our advocacy efforts focus on housing policy, zoning regulations, and workforce development support at local, state, and national levels to create favorable business environments.
People
Ashley Dupuis-Bohman
President
As President of the Wausau Area Builders Association, Ashley leads strategic initiatives while representing members' interests. She brings banking expertise from her role at Intercity State Bank to support industry financial needs.
Alex Forer
Past President
Alex Forer, former President and owner of Larry Meyer Construction, contributes decades of building experience to guide association operations and long-term planning efforts.
Cara Spatz
Executive Director
Cara Spatz oversees daily association operations, managing member services, event coordination, and community outreach programs to advance the organization's mission and member objectives.
Christi Santama
Director
Christi Santama serves as a board director, leveraging her banking expertise from Associated Bank to support financial planning and industry partnership development initiatives.
Matt Ross
Builder of the Year
Recognized as 2024 Builder of the Year, Matt Ross of Ross Construction exemplifies excellence in residential building through innovative design and community-focused projects that elevate industry standards.
Questions
What is the Wausau Area Builders Association's primary mission?
We promote quality, affordable housing through industry advocacy, workforce development, and community engagement while representing building professionals' interests.
How can I attend the Parade of Homes?
Visit our website for virtual tour access or event calendars with dates for in-person home showings throughout the year.
What community programs do you support?
We fund scholarships, classroom resources through the Building Youth into Builders Grant, and local causes while hosting charitable events like the Sporting Clay Shoot.
How do I join the association?
Complete a member application on our website to connect with local builders, suppliers, and industry professionals through networking and advocacy opportunities.
What events do you host annually?
We organize the Spring and Fall Parades of Homes, two Home Shows, and various networking events supporting industry professionals and homebuyers.
How does WABA support workforce development?
We partner with schools for career education programs, offer industry training resources, and promote construction careers through youth engagement initiatives.
Reviews (3)
Aimee Elliot
Sep 28, 2017
Report
Carol from kitchen and bath design was very helpful getting us the right vanity top, prices aren't to bad, more than say Menards, but better quality.
Lorna Eldridge-Pike
Feb 06, 2014
Report
I might need someone to give a price or could you send me some material on what you do. Lorna pike pobox 430 Denmark, Wi 54208. Thank you.
Steven Hantz
Jan 04, 2014
Report
I had an awesome time playing at your Christmas party hope to see you all again next year Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all
