Several FGIA staff members participated in GlassBuild America this year, which took place in Dallas, TX. The show was a big success, and we asked staff to share their biggest takeaways from the trade show floor. From industry forecasts and sustainability innovations to products trends and professional development, here’s what resonated with FGIA staff after the show wrapped up on October 2.

Janice Yglesias, FGIA Executive Director

“I attended a session by economist Connor Lokar, who shared that companies in the commercial sector should be preparing for a slowdown – not a recession, but a softening through 2025 and into 2026. On the residential side, his prediction is that the market will begin to pick up a little bit as we move through 2025. He also commented that although the multi-family housing market has been struggling, it is expected to gradually improve. However, it has a long road ahead to fully recover from the recent significant declines.

I also learned about some interesting potential opportunities for glass recycling from Infinite Recycled Technologies and Resource Recovery. These may provide additional opportunities within the post-consumer vinyl window recycling pilot program FGIA seeks to launch in 2025.”

Aaron Blom, FGIA Technical Training Specialist

“My first takeaway was the strong emphasis on training and education, something I was pleased to see as a technical trainer! There was a live Architectural Glass and Metal Technician testing area set up on the show floor, where glaziers completed testing on specialized rigs, demonstrating their knowledge and proficiency in essential glazing techniques. The National Glass Association also hosted a group of 50 local high school students to promote career paths and opportunities in the industry. I had the chance to chat with a few of these students while they were visiting the industry pavilion.

I also noticed an increase in the number of component manufacturers that exhibited. I saw more gasket, flashing and hardware exhibitors than I remember seeing in Vegas two years ago. Plus, the trend toward more sustainable products was a common theme that I noticed on the show floor.”

Jason Seals, FGIA Certification Services Manager, Fenestration

“I was impressed by how busy and energetic the show felt. It was the busiest show in the post-COVID era. The FGIA booth had good traffic all week and the presentations were well attended.”

Amy Becker, FGIA Glass Products Specialist

“There was a lot of collaboration on the floor, which had a fun vibe! People seemed eager to catch up with each other. It was a big show! Everything is bigger in Texas, I’ve heard. I was grateful for the preparation our staff put in which made it a great experience. Thanks to all our amazing members who stopped by the industry pavilion! I can’t wait for next year’s GlassBuild America in Orlando, FL.”

See you in 2025!