Will Cooper Appointed BUILD-PAC Chairman to Advocate for Affordable Housing Solutions
- Will Cooper, CEO of WNC, appointed as BUILD-PAC Chairman during the 2026 International Builders’ Show.
- Cooper’s leadership at WNC emphasizes advocacy and strategic business initiatives in affordable housing.
- WNC has acquired over $21.5 billion in properties, contributing to 120,000 housing units nationwide.
Leadership Transition in Affordable Housing Advocacy: Will Cooper Takes Charge as BUILD-PAC Chairman
In a notable shift for the affordable housing sector, Will Cooper, Jr., President and CEO of WNC, has been appointed as Chairman of BUILD-PAC during the 2026 International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Florida. Cooper, who has served as a BUILD-PAC Trustee for over a decade, expresses his commitment to this influential role at a time when political dynamics are particularly impactful. His appointment comes during a critical mid-term election cycle, underlining the necessity of political advocacy in shaping legislation that influences the home building industry.
As Chairman, Cooper is set to provide strategic leadership to a Board of Trustees made up of more than 100 members nationwide. This position allows him to foster vital connections with National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) members, stakeholders, and federal policymakers. His extensive experience in the industry highlights his capability to guide BUILD-PAC in advocating for policies that support home builders and create sustainable housing solutions. Cooper emphasizes the significance of collaboration in ensuring that the housing needs of Americans are met amidst shifting political landscapes and socioeconomic challenges.
Alongside his new responsibilities at BUILD-PAC, Cooper continues to steer WNC’s overall business strategies and oversees its subsidiary, Community Preservation Partners. Furthermore, he leads the Cooper Housing Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating homelessness in the U.S. Under Cooper's leadership, WNC has made impressive strides in the affordable housing space, having acquired over $21.5 billion in properties and contributing to the creation and preservation of more than 120,000 housing units across the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands. His dual roles position him uniquely to influence policy and practice in the affordable housing sector, aiming for progress and innovation in housing solutions.
In addition to Cooper's role at BUILD-PAC, his leadership at WNC reflects an overarching commitment to addressing pressing housing issues. The company, established in 1971, continues to play a pivotal role in the national housing landscape. With Cooper at the helm of both BUILD-PAC and WNC, the organization stands poised to enhance its advocacy and impact within the home building industry leading up to the next International Builders Show in 2027.
The future of affordable housing appears promising under Cooper's guidance, as he combines advocacy with a robust business strategy to advance housing availability and affordability. His leadership will be critical in navigating the complexities of the housing market and ensuring that the voice of the home building community is heard amidst the evolving political climate.