Which Is More Important –Experience or Education?

Having 121 combined years of construction experience and countless years of education and training, we at Bella Vista Company are in a unique position among local remodelers to answer that question. It’s both. No surplus of one will compensate for deficiencies in the other. An old saying (we think a doctor told us, but it could have been a golf instructor) supports the logic:

Shortcomings in education are a growing problem in our industry. When customers are persuaded that “nothing trumps experience”, buyer’s remorse often follows. Years of repetition become repetition of mistakes. We see this when we’re called to fix projects. We ask about the remodeler’s related training and certifications, and too often, the answer is “I wasn’t told”, or “I thought experience is what counts”. Keeping current with training and certifications takes time, effort and expense, but it’s as important for remodelers as it is for doctors. Today’s remodeling industry is no longer just guys swinging hammers and hitting nails. Newer systems, including www.facebook.com/BellaVistaCompany

HVAC, electrical, and plumbing are highly sophisticated. Without training, they may be installed or programmed incorrectly and the homeowners may not get the full benefits. There may be malfunctions or poor performance without expertise in the underlying electronics and software.

One of the most important reasons a remodeler should stay current on education and certifications is product knowledge. Remodelers should always be experts in what products and technologies are on the market, how they work, and when to recommend them. The helpful guys at the hardware stores are no substitute for a real education.

Though less common, there are inexperienced remodelers with extensive educations. Remodelers have to start somewhere, but no project should be executed without experience in the leadership position. There are always elements that cannot be taught in a book. Beyond techniques, remodeling requires “people skills” and knowledge of end-to-end processes. Experience is the only way to obtain that knowledge.

Just as with surgery, “perfect practice makes perfect”. Good remodelers strive for perfection through education and experience. If you’re contemplating a project and want assurance that your home will be in capable hands, call us. Our qualifications are an open book!