The Nebraska Builders Show (NBS), which will take place on January 30th this year at the LaVista Convention Center, is a major event for the building and construction industry that draws in key players such as home builders, contractors, remodelers, developers, real estate investors, suppliers, designers, architects, and related professionals. NBS connects companies to existing and future customers and is an opportunity to gain powerful knowledge, see product previews, learn how technology can move your business forward, and provides a specific environment for meaningful face-to-face interactions and valuable networking opportunities. Don Burrow of West Star Printing is the Event Promoter for the Nebraska Builders Show.
Tell us a little about your business. – I own West Star Printing. We are a full service commercial printing and marketing company. In addition to putting ink on paper, West Star offers full design services for all visual media.
How did you get started in the business? – After graduating from California State University Chico with a degree in Graphic Design, I went to work for West Star Printing. I worked there for a number of years and when the opportunity presented itself, I purchased the company.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – About 2 years ago I came up with the idea of having a trade show for the building industry. I had lots of contacts in the building industry but no experience in running a trade show. I began reading and researching other trade shows in other industries seeing what worked and what didn’t, and I decided to start the Nebraska Builders Show. An annual trade show for the building industry that would draw all of the key players to the same platform to share experience, products, ideas, skills and thoughts related to the building and construction industry. Last year was our first show and it was very successful. This year’s show is setting up to be even better.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I would have to say the success of the Nebraska Builders Show.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have been married to Kathy for almost 23 years and we have two great daughters. Bailey is a junior at Millard North High School and Savana is a 7th grader at Millard North Middle School.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – In 2007 I was diagnosed with kidney cancer. For me, it caused me to reevaluate my priorities. What is important and what is not. I had part of my left kidney removed and have been cancer-free for the last 5 years.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to play golf or go boating and jet skiing.
What are you the most proud of? – My kids!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Find something to do for a living that you enjoy and your job will not seem like work.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Friend.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Touring Golf Pro.
What is your favorite movie? – O Brother, Where Art Thou? I do not know why, I just laugh every time I see that movie.
What is your favorite TV show? – Big Bang Theory, The Walking Dead, and American Horror Story.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Azteca.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached by phone at (402) 658-5464, by email at Don@NBSomaha.com, or visit www.NBSomaha.com.