SEBC 2025: 5 Days That Strengthen MCG's Commitment to Excellence
The Southeast Building Conference isn't just another industry event for MCG—it's an investment in our clients' futures. Our recent week at SEBC 2025 in Kissimmee delivered exactly what we hoped for: stronger supplier relationships, innovative product discoveries, and insights that translate directly into better outcomes for Amelia Island and Jacksonville projects.
By the Numbers: A Week of Intensive Networking
Five days. Seventeen hours per day. Thirty-nine meetings in four days. When Seth Kelley and I tallied our SEBC schedule, the numbers told the story of our commitment to bringing the best resources back to Northeast Florida.
From Tuesday through Sunday, every conversation was focused on one goal: finding better solutions for our clients while strengthening the partnerships that make exceptional construction possible.
BEX: Where the Real Business Happens
Before SEBC officially opened, we participated in the Builder and Exhibitor Exchange (BEX)—an invite-only event that functions like speed dating for the construction industry. Fifteen minutes per table with leading suppliers and installers, including Westlake, BlueLinx, Daltile, Moen, Generac, Azek, ODC Construction, and Old Castle.
We arrived with a mission: find the best products and negotiate the best deals possible for our clients. Mission accomplished.
Real Results for MCG Clients
The BEX meetings delivered tangible benefits:
New lighting manufacturer partnership that expands design options
Updated existing contracts that reduce costs and increase flexibility
Enhanced buying power that translates to better value for every project
These aren't abstract industry benefits—they're direct improvements to what we can offer families building and renovating on Amelia Island and in Jacksonville.
Game-Changing Product Discoveries
While leadership meetings filled most of our schedule, time on the trade show floor revealed products that will enhance future MCG projects:
Leviton Electrical Panels
Clean, sleek design meets practical installation benefits. These panels are upgradeable for smart home features our clients increasingly request, and they save time during rough installation—efficiency that translates to better project timelines.
Greenbar2X Fiberglass Rebar by BlueLinx
We already use this product, but seeing it showcased reinforced why it's essential for coastal construction. Tougher than steel and rust-resistant, it's perfect for the salt air challenges of Amelia Island building.
Oasys Mosquito Repellent System by HomeTeam Pest Defense
Florida's mosquitos meet their match with this tough, effective system. After seeing it in action, we're confident it can enhance outdoor living spaces for our clients.
Advocacy That Protects Your Investment
NEFBA's significant presence at SEBC included meetings with key legislators: Florida Senator Tracie Davis, Representative Wyman Duggan, Senator Kristen Arrington, and Congressman Byron Donalds. Senator Davis captured the bipartisan importance of housing perfectly: "When it comes to housing, it's not about being Republican or Democrat, it's about being for Housing. It's the 'H' party."
This advocacy work directly impacts our clients by promoting policies that support quality construction and fair housing practices throughout Northeast Florida.
Sharing Knowledge: From Learning to Teaching
For the first time in years, instead of attending educational seminars, I had the privilege of teaching one. Speaking to construction professionals about investing in production crews through training reinforced a core MCG belief: better-trained teams deliver better results.
The lesson extended beyond the seminar room—protecting your voice during a week of intensive networking is as important as protecting your investment in quality construction.
Recognition and Motivation: The Aurora Awards
The week concluded with the Aurora Awards, where MCG's design team joined us to celebrate Southeast construction excellence. While we didn't repeat last year's Grand Aurora win for our beach renovation project, earning a Silver Aurora among tough regional competition was an honor.
More importantly, seeing awe-inspiring projects from across the Southeast motivated us to raise our standards even higher for next year's submissions.
What This Means for Your Project
SEBC 2025 wasn't just about industry networking—it was about strengthening every aspect of what MCG offers:
Better Products: Direct access to innovative materials and systems that enhance durability and functionality
Stronger Partnerships: Improved supplier relationships that provide better pricing and priority service
Industry Leadership: Active participation in advocacy and education that protects your investment
Competitive Edge: Recognition and learning that drives continuous improvement in our processes
Proven Network: Relationships with trusted partners across the Southeast building industry
Building on Success
Every SEBC investment pays dividends for MCG clients. The partnerships formed, knowledge gained, and innovations discovered during these five intensive days translate directly into better homes, smoother projects, and stronger value for Northeast Florida families.
As we implement insights from SEBC 2025, you can expect the same commitment to excellence that has defined MCG since 2009—now enhanced by the latest industry innovations and strongest supplier partnerships.
Ready to experience how industry leadership translates to exceptional construction? Contact MCG to discuss your project and discover how our commitment to continuous improvement benefits your investment.
