Walls & Ceilings recently spoke with regular contributor Tom Harris, of Tom Harris PUR Consulting LLC to speak about this year’s first quarter events as it pertains to the insulation industry. In this podcast of “If Walls Could Talk,” Harris tells W&C about his impressions and experiences from some of these events. 

The construction industry kicks off the year by hosting most of its tradeshows in the first quarter and Harris reports the attendance was fantastic. It looks like we’re back in high gear, he says.

“With COVID restrictions behind us, or at least everyone’s behavior adjusted to respect personal space and hygiene, the attendance at the International Builders Show, World of Concrete, and Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance were all up over pre-COVID rates and setting new attendance records. So yes – people remain interested.”

So, in a word, what was the one big take-away from the SPFA (the spray foam show) Conference?

Education and certification, he says. 

“As a veteran of the industry, I’m really glad these younger, new contractors are seeking knowledge, asking good questions and trying to get better – earlier in their careers. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, are facilitating conversations between contractors who are now helping each other succeed.  It’s great to see,” Harris says.

And how is the SPFA helping?

“As the national trade association, they offered over 60 educational sessions at the tradeshow, tested and certified 229 applicators and Project Managers and held nine hours of exhibit hall time over a two day period to allow contractors and applicators to talk directly to suppliers and manufacturers. The total attendance was a record breaking 1,853 with 98 exhibitors. The SPFA consultants had a booth, as well – and it was busy.