Derek Weiss, a third-generation carpenter and ambitious business owner, made a significant impact on the Detroit building community through his bespoke millwork and custom carpentry. Tragically, Derek passed away at the age of 39 in 2021, but his legacy continues to inspire. Recognizing the profound impact that the NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) had on Derek’s business, his family created a grant program in his memory to support the next generation of builders and remodelers.

This year, the Home Builders Association of Southeastern Michigan, in partnership with the 3 Rivers Community Foundation, awarded four $1,000 grants to HBA of SE MI members aged 40 or younger to help them attend IBS 2025. The grant recipients—Jacob Morris Beer of Nosan Signature Homes, Hussein Mokahal of The LED Lion, Inc., Gordon Russell III of Russell Building Company, and Maxwell Zervos of Zervos Construction—have already registered to attend the Show. These young professionals are eager to follow in Derek’s footsteps, leveraging the education and connections gained at IBS to grow their careers.