Ozarks Profile - Charlyce Ruth

Tell us about your organization.

The Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield is a trade association representing 345 members. The membership comprises builders, remodelers and associates, which include suppliers and other types of companies. "Our primary purpose is to work on the political side on a local, state and national level to help encourage builder-friendly legislation," Ruth said. "On the local level, we are also very involved in community activities." Locally, the HBA holds two trade shows the HBA Home Show and the HBA Remodeling Show and also coordinates the HBA Parade of Homes each year. The organization also has various golf tournaments, fishing tournaments and dinner meetings throughout the year.

What are your duties, and how long have you been with the HBA?

As office manager, Ruth said, "I am in charge of the events we do locally, the newsletter, the accounting and the office." She has been with the HBA since August 1999.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

"I really enjoy the variety I have in my job. Each day presents a new group of challenges and opportunities," Ruth said. "I enjoy having an occasional quiet day in the office, but also have a lot of fun working with the vendors and the public at the Home Show."

What are some of the biggest challenges you face?

"(There's) not enough time in the day, especially as we get closer to the Home Show. While the Home Show is a lot of fun, it takes a lot of work and a lot of time," Ruth said.

What can you tell us about your family/personal life?

"I have lived in the Springfield area for the past 10 years, with my husband, Jeff Ruth. My degree is in business administration, and I attended Whitworth College in Spokane, Wash.," Ruth said. She originally is from Iowa, but said she's lived all over the United States as a result of her father's military career.

What are your favorite spare-time pursuits?

"I enjoy baking, quilting and, once the weather clears up, working in my flower beds and attending auctions," she said.

by Maria Hoover