SBCA Announces Multiple Association Leadership Updates

Official Press Release

SBCA is pleased to announce some updates to its association leadership after the recent Board of Directors Meeting held in Asheville, NC, at the SBCA Open Quarterly Meeting, May 14-16, 2024. At the SBCA Board of Directors meeting, Roger Helgeson, President of The Truss Company, was renewed for another 3-year At-Large term with the SBCA Executive Committee; Jerry Vulgaris, Vice President of Sales of A-1 Industries, was elected to the SBCA Board of Directors for a 3-year Component Manufacturer term; and Jeff Smith, previously with Builders FirstSource, retired from the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.  

Roger Helgeson grew up in a home builder family, worked for the family business, and had his own custom home building business for several years prior to getting into the supply side of the business. He previously worked for an independent lumberyard in Northwest Washington where he sold trusses and lumber, ultimately finding himself at Tri-Country Truss. Roger arrived at The Truss Company by way of acquisition in 2011, which is when he attended his first OQM in San Diego. Roger has become a fixture at SBCA events since then. Not only is Roger a part of the SBCA Board of Directors and Executive Committee, but he is also the chair of the Management Committee and an SBCA Foundation & Endowment Trustee. Roger states, “I enjoy the responsibility that comes with being on the executive committee, along with the friendships that are generated through meetings and weekly calls. I enjoy seeing the SBCA staff grow and offer more services for members, as well.”  

Jerry Vulgaris joined A-1 Industries as Vice President of Sales in April 2021; Jerry oversees the sales and marketing for A’1’s Fort Pierce and Bainbridge facilities. Prior to joining A-1, Jerry was the Senior Director of Business Development for MHA Building Systems, in Lodi, CA, and the Senior Project Manager at Colt Builders in Salt Lake City, UT. Jerry comes from a 4th Generation family business with decades of multi-segmented construction experience, including structural components, wood framing, and the development of innovative products. Jerry has previously served on SBCA’s Board of Directors, both as a CM and a supplier representative. In addition to his time on the Board of Directors, Jerry was one of the people that helped found the SBCA Northeast Chapter, and also chaired the BCMC Committee. As someone who supported BCMC and the structural building component industry with enthusiasm and integrity in an unselfish and positive manner over the years, Jerry Vulgaris was awarded the Dick Bowman Industry Enthusiast Award in 2015. Jerry has been involved with SBCA since 1993, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience with him over the years. “After more than three decades of WTCA/SBCA participation in various roles, I’m excited to join the Board and be part of the journey and growth of the SBCA,” says Jerry. “I look forward to my future involvement and contribution not only to the Association but the entire Component Industry.”
  

Jeff Smith, previously with Builders FirstSource, has officially retired from SBCA, as he has taken an exciting new position in another industry. We recognize and thank Jeff for his service to the industry, as a member of the SBCA Board of Directors, SBCA Executive Committee, QC Committee, and his many other contributions, efforts, and time given to the association over the years. We wish Jeff all the best as he ventures onto this new path!