Learning from the Best: Matt Jenkins Named a Finalist for National Remodelers Award

In January 2026, a small team from MJ Kitchen & Bath including Matt Jenkins, Mike Jenkins, Joe Chavey and Matt Quinn, along with the two other award finalists, were invited to visit the CASE Architects & Remodelers office in Bethesda, Maryland. The gathering brought together remodeling leaders from around the country for a day focused on learning, collaboration, and sharing ideas about how to run stronger businesses.

The event gave finalists an inside look at how one of the country’s leading remodeling firms operates.

The day included presentations on a range of topics from marketing to project management, along with open discussions about what works—and what doesn’t—when running a remodeling company.

An article in Qualified Remodeler describing the event noted that the informal theme of the day was “constructive collaboration.” Participants shared their business approaches, strengths, and challenges with the goal of learning from one another.

As quoted in the article, one of the most meaningful aspects of the experience for Matt was seeing how a strong culture and clear systems can support creativity and quality work:

The conversations throughout the day reinforced the idea that successful remodeling companies don’t stop evolving. Instead, they continually refine how they communicate with clients, manage projects, and support their teams.

Opportunities like this are valuable not just for us as business owners—but ultimately for the homeowners we serve.

By connecting with other experienced remodelers and sharing ideas openly, we can learn new ways to improve communication, refine processes, and deliver better project experiences.

Bruce Case captured this spirit of collaboration during the event: “We are all working to raise the bar for our businesses, and sharing best practices openly is one of the most powerful ways to do that… Bringing finalists together creates an environment where learning is mutual, inspiration flows naturally, and everyone walks away better equipped to take their company to the next level.”

For Matt—and the whole team at MJ Kitchen & Bath—this recognition means a lot to us—not just because of the award itself, but because it celebrates the values we care deeply about: listening well, continually improving, and building meaningful relationships with both our our team and with the homeowners who trust us with their homes.

The visit also included a tour of the CASE offices and time spent connecting with architects, designers, and team members throughout the company who continually strive to keep raising the standard for the industry.

For us, the experience was a reminder that the best remodeling companies never stop learning. By studying what works, sharing ideas with peers, and refining how we operate, we’re better equipped to guide our clients through successful remodeling projects.

The people at CASE were incredibly generous in sharing their time, knowledge and experience with us.

A huge thank you to Bruce, Bill, and the entire Case team for their hospitality and insight! We returned home inspired, grateful, and excited for what’s ahead!