| involved in the discussions and contribute. I’m living proof that CGA makes you a better partner through continued education. I wear my CGA designation badge at meetings with builders and other industry professionals and can’t tell you how many people have stopped and noticed. It’s a great conversation starter. But it all starts with you, the builder. If you encourage your vendors and suppliers to get involved in CGA the program, they will. Have you ever asked your vendors or contractors if they are a CGA? If you ask, your best partners will take the time to learn how they can participate, and once they have, you both will benefit. By the way, my husband, Nelson, is a custom builder. I believe that now that I’ve earned my CGA, I will be able to understand his business a little better, too. Robin S. Newhouse, CGA, is vice chair of NAHB’s Associate Members Committee and has been an employee of Dominion Virginia Power for more than 19 years. She is an active member of the Fredericksburg Area Builders Association, the Home Builders Association of Virginia and NAHB. | 
Building is a complicated business. When you choose subcontractors, suppliers, architects, attorneys and other associates to work with, don’t you want them to understand what you do, how they fit into the project and the day-to-day issues you face? 