Looking Back at ASHI Past

As ASHI celebrates 50 years in 2026, we reached out to several ASHI home inspectors and leaders to find out what the organization has meant to them. We begin with a note from current ASHI President and ASHI National 2023 Past President, Lisa Alajajian Giroux, and continue with the experiences of others across ASHI. 

Lisa Alajajian Giroux, ACI, 2026 ASHI
National President, Massachusetts 

I joined the American Society of Home Inspectors back in 1998, and if you had told me then just how much it would shape my career—and honestly, my life—I’m not sure I would have believed you. 

At the time, I was focused on building my business. What I didn’t expect was how quickly ASHI would make me feel like I was part of something bigger. It wasn’t just about inspections anymore. It was about community, shared knowledge, and being surrounded by people who genuinely wanted to get better at what they do. 

Over the years, ASHI gave me the chance to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined. I became a mentor, a leader, and a speaker. And somewhere along the way, I realized that helping others in this profession was just as rewarding as doing the work itself. 

Some of my favorite memories come from InspectionWorld. One that still makes me smile is a night at Disneyland where we somehow ended up with the run of the Tower of Terror for a couple of hours. It was one of those moments where you step back and think, “How did this become part of my professional life?” 

But honestly, it’s the simpler moments that stay with me just as much. Sitting around fire pits in San Diego, talking with inspectors from all over the world. Swapping stories. Comparing notes. Even explaining what a basement—or a bulkhead—is to someone who’s never seen one before. Those conversations remind you how diverse this profession really is, and how much we can learn from each other. 

That’s really the value of ASHI. It doesn’t just make you a better inspector—it moves you forward faster than you would on your own. When you’re surrounded by some of the best inspectors in the country, and you’re able to sit, listen, debate, and learn from them, it raises your game. Plain and simple. 

Looking back, I can say ASHI has made all the difference in my career. It’s given me opportunities, perspective, and a sense of purpose beyond just running a business. And to this day, I still love getting up and doing what I do. It’s not just a job; it’s something I plan to keep doing for as long as I’m able. 

Ray Mayo, ACI, 2026 Board of Directors, Maine 

I joined ASHI in 2016, after my first year of training as a home inspector under my mentor Len Westra. Len had been a longtime member and spoke highly of the benefits—especially the education and credentials—so it seemed like a great fit.

ASHI has meant a great deal to me throughout my career. Early on, my focus was largely on education. The online learning opportunities were invaluable, particularly here in Maine, where attending in-person events can be challenging. As I grew and developed as an inspector, ASHI also connected me with reputable companies for insurance and tools. I’ve come to really value the professional partnerships ASHI provides.

Working in a rural area, ASHI has also helped me feel connected to a larger professional community. It gave me access to the same education and peer network as inspectors across the country, which made a significant difference in my development.

Now, after 10 years in the field, I feel both confident in my work and grateful for the opportunity to give back. Through education initiatives and my service on the Board of Directors, I’m able to contribute to the community that supported me. While I’m still always learning, it’s rewarding to share the kind of insight and guidance I wish I’d had early on.

I’ve only attended one IW, but a couple of moments stand out: The taco buffet was great. And I really enjoyed the roundtable discussion on improving our reputation and visibility within the real estate community. The breakout session was especially engaging; it was insightful to hear directly from agents about their perspectives on our profession and organization.

ASHI is for inspectors who want to improve themselves, be part of a supportive professional community, and contribute to strengthening the profession as a whole.

Duane Morrison, ACI, California 

I joined ASHI in 2009. Being a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors has played a significant role in my professional growth. It has provided valuable educational development and has helped me stay connected with other inspectors in our industry. That connection, combined with ASHI’s training resources, has given me the confidence to consistently perform at a high level of professionalism.

My favorite InspectionWorld memory was this year in Valley Forge. It was especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to meet and connect with other inspectors and have in-depth conversations about the challenges and opportunities involved in growing a multi-inspector company.

Being part of ASHI has also had a direct impact on our business. It has helped our company identify opportunities to offer additional services, while also providing the education and training necessary to confidently deliver those services. As a result, we have been able to expand our offerings and increase our overall revenue.

Kyle Rodgers, ACI, ASHI National
President-Elect 

I joined ASHI in 2006. I attribute my high level of home inspection skill across multiple types to my continuing education I get from ASHI.

There is no better way to learn what you really need to know as a home inspector than by going to local chapter events and InspectionWorld. The classes are great, but it is the in-between times of talking with other inspectors where you can learn the most.

When we had our last Inspection World in Orlando, I was invited up to the President’s Suite (Mike Wagner) for an evening event to get to know the Board of Directors, and he encouraged me to think about running for the position of President of ASHI. And now here I am as President Elect.