Meet Claudia Cieslar | CEO of The Home Builders Association of Midwest Georgia

We had the good fortune of connecting with Claudia Cieslar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claudia, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Our association’s impact extends well beyond the homebuilding industry. As the Home Builders Association of Midwest Georgia, we serve as a unifying voice for builders, remodelers, and trade professionals across ten counties, ensuring that the growth of our industry directly supports the well-being of the communities we represent.

We invest in workforce development by offering continuing education for licensed professionals and creating pathways for the next generation of skilled trades through pre-apprenticeship and mentorship programs. In doing so, we not only strengthen the construction workforce but also provide young people with meaningful, long-term career opportunities.

Additionally, our members are active in philanthropy and community engagement. From school supply drives and holiday outreach programs to supporting first responders and partnering with local nonprofits, we are committed to addressing community needs and giving back where it matters most.

At our core, we believe that strong housing leads to strong communities. Every initiative we undertake — whether educational, charitable, or industry-focused — is designed to improve quality of life, promote economic growth, and foster lasting community connections.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Home Builders Association of Midwest Georgia is unique because we are more than just an industry trade group — we are a family of builders, remodelers, and associate members who are deeply invested in the communities we serve. What sets us apart is the diversity and strength of our membership. From large-scale developers to small business owners, each member brings expertise, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving housing and quality of life across our ten-county region.

I am most proud of how our association has grown — not only in membership, but in influence and impact. We have faced challenges, especially during times when the housing market slowed or when volunteer organizations struggled to re-engage members post-pandemic. It wasn’t easy, but we overcame those challenges by leaning into what makes us strong: our people. By listening to our members, creating opportunities for them to connect and do business together, and ensuring that our events and education directly serve their needs, we’ve built something sustainable and meaningful.

Along the way, I’ve learned that leadership in this role requires flexibility, patience, and a constant focus on relationships. Every challenge has been an opportunity to grow stronger, and every success has been a direct reflection of the commitment of our membership.

What I want the world to know about the Home Builders Association of Midwest Georgia is this: we are here to build more than homes. We are here to build opportunity, strengthen the workforce, and give back to our community. Our story is one of collaboration, resilience, and service — and I’m honored to be part of leading that mission forward.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, I’d want them to truly experience the charm, hospitality, and energy that make Coweta and Fayette Counties so special. We’re blessed with a mix of history, great food, entertainment, and natural beauty, so a week here can be both relaxing and full of adventure.

We’d start in downtown Newnan, exploring the historic courthouse square, local shops, and enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants like Meat N Greet or The Cellar. From there, Mid-week, we’d spend time in Senoia, strolling through Main Street and checking out the filming locations from The Walking Dead. Dinner would be at Nic & Norman’s, a favorite spot with both locals and visitors.

In Fayette County, no visit would be complete without a day in Peachtree City, cruising around on golf carts to see the lakes, trails, and neighborhoods that make it unique. We’d grab lunch on the water and then head to The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater for an evening concert. I’d also make sure we spent time at Trilith Studios and the Town at Trilith — a truly world-class hub of film, arts, and innovation. Whether it’s exploring the shops and restaurants in the community or just soaking in the creative energy, it’s one of the most exciting places in our region. For outdoor time, I’d take them hiking at Line Creek Nature Area or out to Chattahoochee Bend State Park in Coweta for kayaking and a picnic. And of course, we’d mix in a few evenings supporting local breweries and eateries like Line Creek Brewing Co. or Downtown Olive & Kitchen.

By the end of the week, they’d understand why we’re so proud of where we live and work. What makes this area so exciting isn’t just the places, but the people — hardworking, creative, and community-minded. That combination of small-town warmth and big opportunities is exactly why our association and our members are proud to call Coweta and Fayette home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would dedicate my shoutout to our members — the builders, remodelers, associates, and trade professionals who make up the heart of our Home Builders Association. Their commitment to quality, integrity, and community service is what allows our organization to thrive. Each member plays a vital role, whether it’s supporting workforce development, volunteering at community events, or ensuring that families in our region have access to safe, affordable housing.

The strength of our association comes directly from their collective energy and engagement. I am constantly inspired by how they not only advance our industry but also give back generously to the communities where we live and work. They truly deserve the recognition and credit for every success story we share.

Website: https://www.hbaofmidwestgeorgia.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hbaofmidwestgeorgia/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hba-of-midwest-georgia/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067035935962

Other: https://www.nahb.com/
https://www.hbag.org/

Image Credits
We accredit Google with providing the Ella’s House – Joseph Sam’s School photo.