It's a BIAW holiday tradition to express our gratitude to our president with a light-hearted list of our favorite things about them! BIAW's 2025 President Kent Arola is a retired State Patrol trooper turned home builder with great attention to detail, a deep love of fishing and lots of love for his family. Here are just a few reasons BIAW loves Kent: 

#8 He enforces “business appropriate” like a retired trooper.

If you’ve ever wondered whether jeans and a t-shirt count as business casual, Kent already decided. And he’s right. Every time. (Though he might let you off with a warning.)

#7 He absolutely crushes Big Check presentations.

Serious but kind face. Perfect grip. Nailed it every time.

#6 He supports the next generation of home builders.

A frequent guest at the BuildStrong Trades Academy, he proves he supports the next generation in person, not just in speeches.

#5 He’s not above swigging a Coors Light with the team.

He may prefer a mixed drink but he’ll join in a round of Coors Light with the ROII team to celebrate workplace safety and industry-leading retro refunds.

#4 He's not a fan of selfies — but takes them with us anyway.

He may not love the camera, but he loves the people. He’ll sigh, smile and stand still long enough to prove it.

#3 He’s the ultimate advocacy superhero.

When it comes to advocacy and member priorities, he’s fiercely loyal and even more competitive. Never forget that Kent was the first leader of the BIAW Legislative Champions League—and he’s already prepping to run the leaderboard in 2026.

#2 Two words: CRAB FEED

Nothing says “thank you” like a surprise crab feed with lots of butter, bibs and fixings. Leadership. Kent-style.

#1 He shows up — for BIAW, his family and our industry.

Proud husband and dad. Avid fisherman. Fierce defender of the home building industry. Kent’s a steady, values-driven leader who puts members first, steadfastly supports Washington’s Professional Women in Building Councils, and never loses sight of why this work matters.

That's why Kent's our Person of the Year for 2025!