We are thrilled to announce the expansion of the Building Trades Network (BTN) with the introduction of a new chapter.
BTN’s core mission is to support people working in the building trades by helping them grow both in their businesses and on their businesses. This new chapter will allow us to better serve a wider geographic area and address the needs of our growing membership.
Why the Expansion?
Our current chapter has successfully served members in North Orange County, parts of South Orange County, and even into Los Angeles. However, with the new chapter, we aim to enhance our coverage into South Orange County, North San Diego, and Riverside County. By expanding, we can improve access for contractors in these regions, reducing commute times and allowing them to participate in the BTN community without the burden of long travel. Many of our existing members currently commute an hour or more to attend meetings. By bringing BTN closer to home, we hope to attract new members and make it easier for current ones to stay engaged.
Moreover, we’ve recognized that some of our meetings have grown too large, making it difficult for each member to have a voice and receive value. With a new chapter, we can keep our meetings more intimate—around 30 to 40 members—ensuring that everyone benefits from the focused networking opportunities BTN is known for.
Enhancing Opportunities for Contractors
We also see this expansion as an opportunity to attract younger contractors and those considering a career in the trades. The building trades are facing a generational shift, and it’s vital that we encourage new talent to join and grow within this industry. BTN can help preserve and pass on the invaluable, tacit knowledge that skilled workers possess, ensuring the sustainability of the trades for years to come.
In addition to attracting new talent, we want to focus on filling gaps in representation. While BTN offers a wide range of trades, certain areas, like handyman services, are in high demand, and we aim to double or even triple up on these trades. This ensures that members can reliably meet the needs of their customers while building strong professional relationships within the network.
Building Synergies and Scaling Up
One of the great strengths of BTN is the synergy that develops when like-minded professionals come together. Our members have already experienced tremendous growth—our chapters have gone from under $1 million in business per year to over $4 million. By expanding, we can continue to scale this success, allowing members to take on more business sustainably, backed by reliable subcontractors and a trusted network.
Serving Our Community
At the heart of BTN’s mission is giving back. Our commitment to ethical business practices and high-quality workmanship is unwavering. We believe that success isn’t just about profit; it’s about making a positive impact on the communities we serve. That’s why we support charities like Mercy House, whose mission is to end homelessness by providing permanent housing for those in need. By expanding BTN, we can extend our charitable reach and make an even greater difference.
The Impact of a New Chapter
So, what does this new chapter mean for BTN and our members? It broadens our capacity to help people, whether they’re just entering the trades or are established professionals looking to take their businesses to the next level. We provide an “old-school” style of networking—focused, purposeful, and built on relationships. People do business with those they know, like, and trust, and this expansion will create even more opportunities for members to grow those connections.
Our Goals for the Future
As we look ahead, we aim to grow BTN membership by 20 to 30 new members and add at least $2 million in additional revenue for our member businesses by the end of 2025. These are ambitious goals, but we believe that with the continued support of our members, we can achieve them.
A Collective Community
BTN remains the most valuable construction trades network for independent contractors in Southern California. As the shortage of skilled labor continues, BTN is the best resource for contractors—from veterans to new licensees—to grow and professionalize their businesses, ethically and profitably. Coming together as a community of skilled professionals allows us to support each other, share knowledge, and elevate the entire industry.
We’re excited about the future of BTN and the opportunities this new chapter will bring. Together, we will continue to build a strong, supportive community where every contractor can thrive.
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