Wabash National's CEO Appointed BUILD-PAC Chairman, Enhancing Affordable Housing Advocacy

Wabash National’s Leadership in Affordable Housing Takes Center Stage

Wabash National Corporation (WNC) gains significant attention in the affordable housing sector with the recent appointment of its President and CEO, Will Cooper, Jr., as Chairman of BUILD-PAC, the bipartisan political action committee of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). This pivotal announcement occurred during the 2026 International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Florida. Cooper’s extensive experience on the BUILD-PAC Board of Trustees—over ten years—positions him well to navigate the complex landscape of housing policies and bolster advocacy efforts at a time when political engagement shapes the future of the home building industry. This role underscores WNC’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis while highlighting Cooper’s influence in advocating for policies that directly impact affordable housing initiatives.

In his new capacity as Chairman, Cooper is set to lead a Board of Trustees comprising more than 100 members nationwide. His strategic leadership is expected to enhance the coalition’s efforts in connecting NAHB members with essential stakeholders and federal policymakers. This collaboration is vital as WNC, established in 1971, has successfully facilitated the acquisition of over $21.5 billion in affordable housing properties, which equates to the creation and preservation of more than 120,000 housing units across 49 states, the District of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands. With Cooper’s seasoned guidance, BUILD-PAC aims to fortify its advocacy at a critical juncture ahead of the mid-term elections, making it a significant player in shaping legislation that will benefit the home-building sector.

Cooper’s dual roles enhance WNC’s overall mission and effectiveness in addressing homelessness through its subsidiary, Community Preservation Partners, and the Cooper Housing Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to combating homelessness in America. His leadership reflects WNC’s dedication not just to building homes but to influencing the regulatory environment that governs housing. As Cooper steps into this influential position, industry stakeholders anticipate robust advocacy efforts that will continue to advocate for the home building community through to the next International Builders Show in 2027.

As WNC embraces Cooper’s new national role, the entire executive team remains focused on delivering sustainable solutions in affordable housing while reinforcing the importance of political action in this evolving industry landscape. Cooper’s leadership at BUILD-PAC reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that affordable housing remains a priority on the national agenda. The implications of this appointment resonate well beyond immediate industry concerns, underscoring WNC’s ongoing efforts to align corporate strategy with social responsibility in addressing one of the nation’s most pressing needs.