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Chip Barrett is the President of US Glass & Glazing. He is responsible for operations, product design and installation procedures. We spoke with him about his company, his career and where he sees the industry going a decade from now.

Could you describe your role at your company?

The US Glass team is made up of InstallationMasters® installers and glazers. My role is to train the installers and oversee the field operations and long-term company goals.

What products does your company provide?

We provide aluminum and vinyl windows, doors, storefront and curtain wall as well as custom bi-fold, wood clad and curved glass.

Give a brief history of your professional background and how you originally became involved in the industry.

I started my career in the fenestration industry on the residential side of the business as an Andersen Windows dealer 35 years ago.

Why does your company use the InstallationMasters Program, and how has it supported and improved your business?

When I first looked into becoming an accredited instructor for AAMA InstallationMasters, it was for the sole purpose of gaining more education to train and nationally certify US GLASS installers.

In years past, we’ve made our share of installation mistakes, and although we are not perfect, we are far better at planning, training and solving installation problems before they ever occur because of InstallationMasters training.

AAMA has provided detailed training with well-organized manuals coupled with personal one-on-one interaction. Any installer who makes an honest effort to complete this certification and apply its principles will certainly reduce callbacks and become a better technician.

Where do you see the fenestration industry in the next 10 years?

In 10 years, the commercial fenestration industry will be almost 100 percent preassembled/glazed units. Residential and mid-rise commercial lines will be larger in single unit size and higher performing in energy and weather resistance.