Rich Cowgill, CR, GCP

     Although Rich has spent time getting the formal education to be in business, he spent an even greater amount of time perfecting his "hands on" techniques of the various crafts of the construction trades. After college, he went to work rehabbing various buildings into sought after commercial office space. He purchased his first home by the age of 21 and then followed up with building his first home by the age of 22. In 1990, Rich opened Cowgill Builders Inc. to remodel and build new homes. After 10 years of success as Cowgill Builders, and having a desire for the unique challenges of remodeling, In 1998 Rich opened Vision Design and Build, Inc. Vision Design and Build is a full service design build firm dedicated to custom residential additions, and the kitchen and baths that sometimes accompany these projects. Vision Design and has enjoyed and continues to enjoy many years as a successful and award winning remodeling company that has proven its success through its "word of mouth" reputation for quality, professionalism and design.

     Rich has always been dedicated to promoting professionalism and accountability within the remodeling industry. He's been a member of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), for more than six years. And has become a NARI Certified Remodeler, "CR". And just received his Green Certified Professional "GCP" designation from NARI. He continues to work endlessly to improve the homeowner and remodeler relationship by serving as this year's Executive Vice-president of NARI of Greater Chicagoland. Because of his strong belief that Contractors should be educated formally and hands on, Rich is also a member of NARIGC's Education Committee, where for the past three years, he has been one of a handful of teachers for the Certified Remodelers study group. He helps homeowners, by sharing with them, the tools they need to get a successful project by presenting seminars for NARIGC's Public Relations committee entitled, "How to Hire A Reliable Remodeling Contractor, which is offered for free as a public service throughout the Chicagoland area.

Rich also sits on the Illinois State Lead Elimination Advisory Council. As a contractor representative and for the protection of the people of the State of Illinois. Rich is also a member of the National Corvette Restorers Society and the Goodguys Car Clubs.