FGIA is pleased to offer several engaging, interactive sessions during our next conference, taking place February 13-16. The 2023 FGIA Annual Conference will feature the rare opportunity to tour a seismic shake test site in California, where building resistance research has been conducted on a full-scale 10-story mass-timber building. Also at the conference will be a roundtable discussion about innovation in the window industry as well as a multi-station demonstration of various types of fenestration hardware and related tests.

Seismic Shake Test Site Tour

FGIA Annual Conference participants are invited to visit the site of a groundbreaking industry seismic test located on the north side of San Diego. The NHERI TallWood project features a shake table testing of a full-scale resilient 10-story mass-timber building. Up to 50 FGIA conference participants will have the opportunity to tour the site and facilities for an up-close view of the NHERI TallWood project on Monday, February 13. The fee of $25 per person will cover transportation to and from the site.

Those who attend will be able to view the lower floors of the building, where several different nonstructural wall subassemblies are located. Several FGIA members donated products to make this seismic test possible. Follow its construction progress by looking for newsletters on the NHERI TallWood website.

Innovation Roundtable

Embracing Innovation in the Window Industry is a roundtable discussion moderated by Ray Garries (Global Fenestration Advisors) and designed to advance innovation as a core competency in the fenestration industry . Participants will learn about multiple award-winning innovations and how they were created with actionable takeaways that can be implemented in their own companies. Plus, this session is eligible for one industry engagement credit toward recertification of FenestrationMaster® Professional Certification (FMPC) credentials.

Hardware Demonstration

FGIA will be hosting a 90-minute hands-on workshop at the 2023 Annual Conference. The workshop features a series of stations allowing conference participants to view and perform various tests referenced in FGIA hardware standards, such as AAMA 920, 925, 701/702, 901, 902, 906 and Technical Bulletin 03-12. At the end of the workshop, each participant will have a better understanding of the FGIA standards critical to the performance of hardware. The tests will be performed at seven stations with 10 minutes allotted for each rotation ensuring participants get the full experience.

Annual Awards Banquet

And although it may not fit the exact definition of an “interactive” session, the popular Annual Awards Banquet is an experience specific to our in-person participants. With its theme of “Share the Love,” leaders within FGIA will be recognized and appreciated for their hard work and achievements in 2022. Highlights of the evening include awards for distinguished service in the architectural, residential and glass spheres, as well as in marketing and education plus the coveted FGIA Outstanding Member award.

These special experiences add tremendous value and are a big reason participants love to attend FGIA’s conferences in person. Will you be there in Coronado? Let us know in the comments!