2026 NAHB Student Competition Team
Kirkwood Community College’s student chapter of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is headed to Orlando, Fla., Feb. 16–18 to compete in the 2026 NAHB Student Competition at the International Builders’ Show (IBS).
The team is seeking its fifth consecutive first-place finish in the associate program competition. This year’s team is comprised of six students:
- Lincoln Edwards of West Branch, Iowa; Construction Management
- Thomas Egger of Monticello, Iowa; Architectural Technology and Construction Management
- Jayden Grams of Monticello, Iowa; Architectural Technology and Construction Management
- Keaton Helleseth of West Bend, Iowa; Construction Management
- Will Karr of Iowa City, Iowa; Construction Management
- Jonah Salow of Center Point, Iowa; Construction Management
The annual NAHB Student Competition is a highlight of IBS, giving students the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to a real-world construction management scenario. Teams submit a comprehensive project proposal to a panel of construction company executives who serve as judges and present their work in person during the national event.
This year’s challenge for associate programs centers on a residential construction project in Edmond, Okla. Acting as an outside construction management contractor, Kirkwood’s team must develop a full proposal for Ideal Homes to build the Edison Modern Tudor Elevation G on a pre-graded lot.
The project requires students to:
- Recreate detailed construction drawings that meet Oklahoma City and State of Oklahoma building codes
- Develop a market-based material and labor estimate
- Produce a complete construction schedule
- Create a comprehensive construction management plan addressing safety, sustainability, inspections, procurement, and site logistics
- Deliver a formal presentation to industry professionals, including the project sponsor: Ideal Homes
Presentations will take place live in Orlando and include an overview of drawings, cost estimates, construction schedules, and management strategies. Judges will evaluate clarity, accuracy, constructability, and the team’s understanding of real-world building processes.
Kirkwood’s team began preparing in September, carefully reviewing the project requirements and dividing responsibilities. For team members, preparation takes place alongside full course loads and, for many students, part-time jobs.
Jayden Grams of Monticello, Iowa, is the only returning member from last year’s championship team.
“I debated last year about joining, given how much work is involved,” Jayden, 19, said. “But I learned more preparing for the competition than I did in class. It pushes you to think like a professional.”
For students, the competition offers more than technical skill development. It also provides professional growth and industry exposure.
Will Karr, 19, emphasized that the experience mirrors the evolving nature of the construction field.
“It’s a lot of professional development,” Karr said. “Rules and codes change. It’s constantly evolving, just like the industry itself.”
Thomas Egger described the competition as a powerful networking opportunity.
“It’s a good learning opportunity and a good way to network and learn more about the industry,” Thomas, 35, said.
In preparation for nationals, the Kirkwood team presents its proposal to local industry partners, who provide feedback and ask challenging questions. Aaron McGlynn, an instructor for Kirkwood’s Construction Management program, believes this helps Kirkwood apart from its competitors.
“This real-world critique strengthens the team’s final presentation and reinforces the strong partnerships Kirkwood has in the industry,” McGlynn. “They love doing it, too. I get calls every fall asking when the team will be ready to present so they can be sure to make it.”
Kirkwood has competed in the NAHB Student Competition for nearly a decade, earning Rookie of the Year honors at its first national event.
The 2026 NAHB Student Competition presentations will be held Feb. 16–17. Kirkwood will give their presentation on Tuesday, Feb. 17. The winners will be announced on Wednesday, Feb. 18.