October 10, 2005

     

    Founder of national homebuilding company visits BYU-Idaho
     

    REXBURG, Idaho-
    Writer: Amanda Pavlovsky
     

    Bill Pulte, founder of Pulte Homes, a Fortune 200 company, advised students to start early with building and planning a career as he visited with students in the Architecture and Construction Department at Brigham Young University-Idaho on Thursday, October 6.

    During his lecture, Pulte explained several points he believes lead him and his business to success. “In no particular order, here is what I believe contributes to success: Always have a plan, hire good people who have stronger talents in areas you lack, have product/geographic diversification, never be afraid to take a calculated risk and be willing to make changes,” Pulte said.

    Pulte further encouraged students by saying the homebuilding industry is full of opportunities for young people. “The homebuilding industry offers more opportunities for a gratifying career and financial success than just about any other industry in the United States,” he said.

    He next stressed the importance of an education. “We want people with an education because they’re easier to train. That’s why we like you people,” Pulte said.

    Brian Blaylock, the Department Chair of the Architecture and Construction Department at BYU-Idaho, said, “Pulte Homes is a big supporter of students within our program. We’ve placed over 100 students as interns or full-time employees with them. Having Bill Pulte on campus was an exciting time for us!”

    Pulte’s visit to campus included a luncheon with faculty and former interns, a campus tour and a reception and dinner with the Architecture and Construction Management Society.

    Bill Johnson, a senior from California majoring in construction management and a former intern with Pulte Homes, said, “Visiting campus was an eye-opening experience for Pulte. He mentioned the quality of people here, their integrity and values. That’s why they like students from here.” Johnson will graduate in December and will work in the Land Developing Department at a Pulte Homes office in California.

    “Having Pulte on campus was a once-in-a-life time opportunity and he was able to understand where BYU-Idaho students come from,” Johnson said.

    According to its web site, Pulte Homes has constructed more than 408,000 homes in its 55-year history and was named as one of the Top 50 Best Performing Companies by BusinessWeek.

     

    Style guide note: When reporting about Brigham Young University-Idaho, please use the complete name of the university in the first reference.

    Brigham Young University-Idaho, formerly Ricks College, is a four-year private university located in Rexburg, Idaho. The university, which is affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers both baccalaureate and associate degrees; integrated degrees and internships that are tailored to fit students' interests; a year-round track system allowing more students to attend; and an extensive activities program that provides leadership and growth experiences. It is the largest private university in Idaho, with over 11,000 students enrolled for winter 2005.


     

    Media Relations
    Bryce J Rydalch
    Kimball 226, Rexburg, ID 83460
    (208) 496-2108 rydalchb@byui.edu