Advocacy


PRO Forum builds on our advocacy work by creating a direct line of communication between Remodelers, Trade Professionals, and the local officials responsible for codes, inspections, and permitting.

Developed following conversations with representatives from Fairfax County, Montgomery County, and the DC Department of Buildings, PRO Forum is designed to turn common challenges into productive conversations, practical education, and stronger working relationships.

Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2026, virtual sessions will explore topics such as start-to-finish permitting walk-throughs, code and inspection questions, and the real-world issues our members encounter in the field.

Help Shape the Conversation

What are you running into? Share your code, permitting, inspection, or process questions with us. Your feedback will help us bring the right issues and the right people to the table.

Share Your Questions & Challenges

Better communication. Stronger relationships. A clearer path forward.

Government Affairs and Workforce Development Committee Chair David Merrick of Merrick Design and Build explains why advocacy is a cornerstone of PRO's work on behalf of local Remodelers.

 

Advocacy
Workforce Development

PRO provides value to members by:

  • Offering quarterly Zoom meetings to discuss relevant issues with DCRA, Fairfax County and Montgomery County permitting officials.

  • PRO Members can use the PRO Google Group to get advice, share information regarding codes and permitting, and draw on fellow members’ relationships with local municipalities.

See recent meetings with zoning officials from Fairfax, Montgomery County and DC on the PRO YouTube channel.

Teaming up with the Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) with their Residential Carpenter Apprentice Program is an opportunity to bring attention to careers in the industry. The program provides an opportunity for apprentices to learn in-demand construction skills and earn a good, living wage.

PRO is collaborating with MBIA to engage member companies in Maryland and Virginia to help these aspiring carpenters and give them real world experience. Maryland offers businesses valuable support through tax credits and financial incentives to help build a reliable pipeline of qualified workers.

Our Government Affairs and Workforce Development Committees are always looking for ways to support our members. Currently the committee’s main initiatives include:

  • Supporting the efforts of the Alexandria Seaport Foundation and placing two of their apprentice carpenters on PRO member’s teams.
  • Hosting an online job board
  • Promoting remodeling careers at local job fairs and community events

Make the most of PRO's Advocacy Efforts 

Take advantage of quarterly opportunities to meet with area zoning officials. Watch the videos below for permitting guidance and check out the YouTube channel to see additional past meetings.

“I’d like to thank David Merrick and the whole PRO Mid Atlantic group for their leadership and their partnership with DCRA...I’m particularly proud of the relationship we have with your organization, and the open line of communication because it only helps us get better with time.”

Director Ernest Chrappah, Director of District Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA).