CGR Spotlight on Simonton Scholar
Toby Whiting of Marion, IL Receives Simonton Windows® Scholarship and Completes CGR Designation

Toby Whiting (pictured left with Doug Sutton, CGR, CAPS) needs to order new business cards. He now has a few new letters behind his name. Thanks to a generous $2,000 educational scholarship from Simonton Windows®, Whiting, with Southern Illinois Quality Home Improvements in Marion, IL, was able to pursue and obtain both his Certified Graduate Remodelor (CGR) and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designations.

“We’re investing in the future of the remodeling industry by offering these scholarship dollars to remodelers interested in expanding their skills, knowledge and talent levels,” says Bill Lazor, senior brand manager for Simonton Windows. “Clearly, Toby Whiting is a remodeler committed to enhancing his knowledge with continuing education. He achieved both his CGR and CAPS designations within a one-year timeframe, which is remarkable considering the amount of coursework he had to complete. We view his dedication and educational efforts as an advantage for our industry, and for the clients he serves in the greater Marion area. Everyone at Simonton Windows believes the scholarship we’ve provided for Whiting will help him advance in his profession while serving as an example of excellence for other remodelers in his area.”

Toby Whiting, CGR, CAPS completed more than 48 hours of coursework within one year to earn his CGR designation; traveling more than 500 miles, round trip to get to his courses in Indianapolis. According to Toby “it was worth every dime and minute spent.”

Since earning his designation Toby credits the courses for helping make his business “more organized, recognized and profitable.” He also commented that “earning my CGR sets me apart from my competition.” Toby also said, “earning the CGR makes owning and operating a remodeling business a lot easier.”

Toby heartedly thanks Simonton Windows for their support in achieving his educational goals. He also recognized the Indiana Builders Association, NAHB University of Housing and the Remodelors Council for providing the industry-related education.

The CGR designation helps consumers determine which remodeling contractor they can count on to a professional job when faced with dozens of contractors all claiming to do good work. Because the CGR program emphasizes business management as the foundation of a successful remodeling company. The designation is awarded to remodeling professionals who meet prescribed standards of business experience and practices, and complete courses in business administration, sales and marketing, estimating and job costing, contracts and risk management, and project management.

Toby also earned the CAPS designation by completing the required coursework; Working With and Marketing to Older Adults, Home Modifications and Introduction to Business Management. The CAPS designation means Toby completed courses in the technical, business management, and customer service skills necessary to assist consumers with home modifications for aging in place.

Simonton Windows is a leading vinyl replacement and new construction window and door manufacturer. For more information on Simonton Windows, call (800) SIMONTON or visit their Web site.  For more information on obtaining an NAHB designation, visit www.nahb.org/designations. [ return to top ]