Strategic planning is a critical organizational management practice that allows leadership to set goals and priorities and allocate time and resources to meeting those benchmarks. It provides a clear roadmap that keeps teams focused on the most impactful and important initiatives. In this time of workforce challenges and lean resources, few things are more important than working efficiently on targeted objectives to advance your business.Once you have a strategic plan, it is important to then update all stakeholders and constituents about progress, delivering metrics to...

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...

Great news: applications are now being accepted for a 2024 FGIA education grant! The first-ever FGIA Bill Briese Educational Engagement Grant Program recipients were awarded grants last year, and the time to apply for the second round of winners is now through March 31.This company-focused grant, available exclusively to FGIA corporate members, is aimed at extending education opportunities, building engagement within FGIA, expediting integration into the industry and furthering professional growth and advancement.Who is qualified to apply for the grant? An FGIA corporate member company...

The 20th GlassBuild America is getting closer. Not only is this a must-see event for the industry, it also serves as a great training ground for all levels of knowledge when it comes to glass and fenestration. FGIA is an association sponsor of the show and we are thrilled to be hosting two new education sessions at the show this year. Learn about performance of fenestration and glass when it comes to seismic movement and sit in on a session delivering insights on successfully managing...

Great news on the education front! You can now register for FGIA’s very popular annual in-person IG Fabricators Workshop, taking place November 7-9 at the Intertek testing facility in Plano, TX. Last year, we had to have a waitlist because so many people in the industry wanted to register for this workshop. Register early to make sure you get a seat at the table for this unique educational session.The IG Fabricators Workshop, led by industry experts, has addressed best practices for the most important aspects...

Everyone in the industry knows that a product is only as good as its installation. That is why FGIA is committed to training installers on the proper techniques and skills required for a weathertight install. InstallationMasters® (IM) is a nationwide training and certification program for installers of new construction and replacement windows and exterior doors in residential and light commercial applications.Completion of the IM training program and successfully passing the exam allows qualified participants to earn either the Certified Installer or Certified Professional credential. Since...

Last fall, FGIA released a revamped introductory educational program, now available as a more dynamic and engaging online course. Fundamentals of Fenestration provides basic terminology and performance criteria for windows, doors and skylights, covering both residential and light commercial products, as well as commercial and architectural applications. The program serves as an excellent building block for those new to the industry. Including Fundamentals of Fenestration as a part of your training for new employees will set them up for success.Companies looking for an introduction to...

FGIA is busy gearing up for GlassBuild America 2022, taking place October 18-20 in Las Vegas, NV. GlassBuild presents a unique opportunity for the industry to take advantage of learning opportunities to help advance their careers as well as to promote the availability of educational content to employees, encouraging their continued professional development.Our staff will be hosting three different educational sessions at the trade show, and we are looking forward to sharing our expertise – and visiting our many members at their booths on the...

Now is the time to begin planning to attend this fall’s best opportunity for hands-on training to learn best practices for the most important aspects of fabricating and testing IG units. Registration is now open for the next in-person Insulating Glass (IG) Fabricators Workshop, November 1-3 at the Intertek Testing facility in Plano, TX. Discounted rates are available for second and subsequent registrants from the same member company.According to the FGIA market study, IG is used in over 90 percent of the windows and glazed...

In the current highly competitive job market, it is more important now than ever to invest in training and employee professional growth for those on your team. For veteran employees, it reinforces your interest in their career success and in supporting their personal and professional goals. For new employees, it’s a great way to make a first (or early) positive impression – showcasing the type of employer you are and how much value you place on your team.Industry training comes in all shapes and sizes;...

FGIA has exciting news to share about the activities of the Association moving forward, which include a commitment to high-value in-person events, expanding FGIA’s network of partnerships, broadening the use of FGIA’s education programs and funding crucial industry research projects.The FGIA Board has been doing some strategic planning work throughout the first half of this year, including the completion of a two-day retreat which took place May 12-13 as a hybrid event, with the majority of Board members participating in person. During the retreat, the...

FGIA recently announced the opening of registration for this fall’s Insulating Glass (IG) Fabricators Workshop! We are thrilled to once again be able to host this popular industry event in-person. We know the value of this predominantly hands-on, participatory event and what an incredible learning experience it is. The event will take place November 3-5 at the Intertek facility in Plano, TX. Registration is now open until October 8. Only a few of the available 32 spots remain and registrations will be accepted on a...

As you may already know, FGIA recently rolled out new training materials and classes for the InstallationMasters® Combined Training and Certification Program, which addresses proper installation of windows and doors for both new construction and replacement/remodeling. Made available as of June 1, this program replaced the “Original” program training materials, which was sunset as of July 1. Not only that, but an in-person class for individuals interested in becoming newly accredited to teach the InstallationMasters Combined Program installer training is now scheduled for August 30...

It’s that time of year when we resolve to do better – for example, I have decided to invest more time in my health and wellness in 2021! If you started the new year with a resolution to advance your career or further develop your skills, FGIA provides an avenue for working toward those goals. The FGIA Leadership Development Program focuses on the soft skills a leader needs to achieve his or her full potential.Leadership is influence. The Leadership Development Program will help you connect,...

Now that the holiday season has arrived, things are winding down for 2020. But what is not taking a break is FGIA’s commitment to our industry, more important now than ever with the unexpected changes brought by COVID-19. Last month, FGIA sent a survey to members to ask how companies have fared this year, and what FGIA can do to continue to ease their burdens. Three things were frequently requested by membership: education opportunities; a return to in-person conferences; and ways to combat the labor...