An FGIA Professional Education Program

This introductory educational program was completely revamped in 2022 and is now available as a more dynamic and engaging online education offering. It provides basic terminology and standards for windows, doors and skylights, covering both residential and light commercial products, as well as commercial and architectural applications. The online course is designed for use by several audiences, as well as qualifying for continuing education credits. An online purchase provides three-month unlimited access to the course, which was originally released in 2016.

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Companies looking for an introduction to the fenestration industry won’t find more relevant content than the Fundamentals of Fenestration. This course would be especially helpful as part of a company’s onboarding and training program for inside sales reps, customer service teams and anyone new to the industry that needs a basic understanding of fenestration products.

The goal of Fundamentals of Fenestration is to help participants construct a basic working knowledge of the fenestration industry. Those who complete this program will be able to identify fenestration products, recognize basic terminology, discuss material types used for manufacturing and installation and describe the basics of performance, testing and certification. Audiences for the program typically include engineers, consultants, testing companies, manufacturers and contractors.

A Comprehensive Overview of the Industry

This revised course covers a broader scope of the industry, representing nearly the full breadth of products commonly used in the fenestration industry. It provides the fundamental building blocks of various market segments and teaches basic terminology so participants can understand how to discuss and describe products and components.

This two-hour introductory program provides basic terminology and information about windows, doors and skylights, covering both residential and commercial applications. The online course also qualifies for AIA and ICC continuing education credits.

Five 20–25-minute segments are included in the program following its introduction:

1. Windows and Doors
2. Aluminum Framing Systems and Skylights and Sloped Glazing Systems
3. Glass, Framing Materials and Hardware
4. Performance, Testing and Certification
5. Installation, Safety and Care and Maintenance

Modernized Content and Features

An important consideration for revamping Fundamentals of Fenestration was the desire to modernize its content. This new version features dynamic, more engaging information, promoting higher learning retention and participant engagement.

Featuring modern, high-quality images, this program utilizes animations and clear imagery to facilitate visual learning. FGIA made a shift from a lecture-style program to a more engaging approach with this revamped program.

Self-Guided Learning on One’s Own Pace

While the two-hour program could be completed in a single day, the five modules allow participants to complete the course at their own pace. Users have three months of access so they can review it as needed over time.

Key takeaways are included at the end of each module for ease of comprehension and to help solidify content presented in the program. A post assessment is required, and a certificate of completion is provided once the minimum score of 80 percent is achieved.

Outside Accreditations

Upon successful completion of this course, two hours of continuing education credit can be earned, as recognized by the following organizations:

• American Institute of Architects (AIA) - course also qualifies for Health Safety Welfare (HSW) credits
• International Code Council (ICC)

An online post assessment is available on the FGIA Learning Center as part of the course. Upon achieving a minimum score of 80 percent, FGIA will provide a certificate of completion. AIA credits will be processed upon request to education@FGIAonline.org (AIA member number required).

An online purchase provides users with three months of unlimited access to the course.

Thank you to all of the FGIA members and industry partners who helped us to source images for the Fundamentals of Fenestration content modules. View the full photo credit list.