Ask Me Anything: Your Questions About the Future of ICC and More, Answered

Mike Boso, President of the International Code Council’s (ICC) Board of Directors, joined us on ICC’s online member community to answer member-submitted questions.   

From insights on career advancement in the building safety industry, to mentorship, his goals as Board President and more, here’s a recap of his answers.   

Editor’s Note: Some of the questions and answers have been edited for length. View the original “Ask Me Anything” post in “Talkin’ Shop” in the online member community, here (to log in, use your existing MyICC username and password). Learn more about President Boso here.   

Q&A With Mike Boso 

What do you like most about being a member of ICC? 

Boso: What I like most is how ICC has supported me at every stage of my career. From training and certifications to leadership development, ICC has played a major role in my professional growth. The ICC team and its membership community have been instrumental in helping me get to where I am today. 

Who was your mentor and how did that person help to shape your career? 

Boso: Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have multiple mentors who’ve guided me and influenced my growth. Billy Phillips and Jack Pryor from the state of Ohio were instrumental early on, helping me navigate the industry. I’ve also been supported by numerous professionals across the country, including Becky Baker, Ron Piester and Mike Wich, each of whom has played a significant role in my development. Their expertise, advice and support have been invaluable.   

What excites you most about the future direction of ICC? 

Boso: The current ICC Board of Directors is outstanding, but the next generation of leaders will only continue to improve upon this foundation. Similarly, the next generation of code professionals is poised to bring positive change and further innovation to the profession.   

What goals do you have for your year as ICC Board of Directors President? 

Boso: 

1. Collaboration with the ICC Fire and Disaster Mitigation Team: Foster deeper partnerships to enhance community resilience initiatives, increase joint training opportunities and share knowledge and resources for more effective disaster preparedness. 
2. Expand the When Disaster Strikes Training Library: Develop new training modules, update existing content and integrate the latest best practices in fire and disaster mitigation to improve accessibility and effectiveness for all users.
3. Strengthen Collaboration with Strategic Partners: Build and strengthen relationships with key partners to enhance resource sharing. 

Looking back on your career in building safety, was there a particular scenario or situation that profoundly shaped your perspective on why codes are essential to protecting lives and communities? 

Boso: Looking back, growing up with a grandfather, father and several uncles who were firefighters shaped my early understanding of the importance of building safety and community resilience. Their experiences showed me firsthand how much proper planning and strong structures matter. 

Watching building tragedies and natural disasters over the years reinforced that strong, well-enforced codes are essential, not just as regulations, but as life-saving tools that protect communities. 

What was the point in your life where being a building/zoning official was your goal?   

Boso: The point in my life when becoming a building and zoning official became my goal was when I was 15 years old. As a freshman in high school, I had the opportunity to shadow the Chief Building Official in my hometown. We had just experienced a major weather event, and I followed him as he inspected damaged properties. Seeing firsthand how the job combined public service, technical knowledge and real-world problem-solving made me think, “This would be a really cool career.” 

Twelve years later, that same Chief Building Official hired me. Eight years after that, I stepped into his role and became the Chief Building Official myself. I’ve now been in this career for 34 years. 

What are some general tips for building safety professionals who want to advance their careers? 

Boso: I recommend asking questions, staying current with new products and getting involved in the code development process. 

What is something that you wish that every member of ICC knew? How can ICC members make the most of their membership?   

Boso: The ICC team and its members are truly here to support the development of your career. Take the time and network with as many people as you can and get involved, whether it’s through committees, code development or other opportunities. The relationships you build and the engagement you put in will make a tremendous difference in your growth. 

How has your experience in the trades shaped you into who you are today?   

Boso: I believe my experience in the trades gives me a deeper understanding of what contractors and homeowners deal with as a project progresses, because I’ve been there myself. 

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