25
Builder Profile
home from a phone or tablet.“We’re at an age
where we’re getting much more automated,
almost like the Jetsons’ age,” said Eidson.“You
can speak out loud and your lights turn on or
shades open. And to stay ahead of the curve,
we need to keep up with how that progresses.”
EDUCATION FOR A BETTER FUTURE
And their education doesn’t stop with rain
collection systems and home automation.
They are continually updating their
knowledge and practices through online and
classroom training. They work constantly
to stay up to date on current and upcoming
energy codes. “We try to think of these
things as challenges, not burdens,” said
Eidson. “They help us build more energy
efficient homes.”
Fransik has especially embraced this idea as
he currently serves on the Energy Code Task
Force for TAB. He’s also in training to be
an Energy Code Ambassador for the South-
central Partnership for Energy Efficiency
as a Resource (SPEER). And he’s not just
educating himself as he encourages others
to learn about sustainable, energy efficient,
and durable construction and works to teach
others the principles of building science.
All of this education has paid off as Sierra
Homes has earned numerous awards for its
energy efficient and renewable energy projects.
From its 2009 Texas Star Award – Green
Project of the Year to the NAHB Research
Center’s 2010 Gold Winner of the Energy
Value Housing Award, the company is being
recognized for its efforts. And the customers
in the Hill Country are paying attention.
“We’re really proud of the recognition we’ve
gotten for the LEED Platinum, Gold, and
Silver homes over the years,” said Eidson.