Registration is now open for the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance’s 2024 Fall Conference, which is taking place on Sept. 16-19 in Minneapolis at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. The conference’s theme, “Oktoberfest,” is a seasonal reference to the event’s fun night out: a brewery tour at Surly Brewing. Participants are encouraged to register now to take advantage of early-bird pricing through Aug. 23. Registration is available for both the in-person event and the virtual experience.

“The Midwest loves the German tradition of Oktoberfest, and FGIA is excited to celebrate the season in Minneapolis,” said Florica Vlad, FGIA events manager. “In-person participants will also have the opportunity to register for a Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse tour and the popular FGIA Product Showcase. The networking and educational aspects of this event will offer all participants the opportunity to learn and connect.”

Education and Networking Events

On Monday morning, participants can see first-hand the Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse, thanks to an educational tour offered by the company. The DesignHouse keeps track of color trends and helps customers bring desired finishes to life.

Also on Monday, the FGIA “Rich and Diane Walker Cup” Golf Tournament will be held at the beautiful Como Golf Course. Guests and spouses will also be busy rolling up their sleeves during the World Vision Backpack Assembly to fill backpacks with school supplies for local children in need.

On Tuesday, the FGIA Product Showcase will offer participants the chance to learn about the latest product trends. The hands-on, once-a-year event offers a prime opportunity for supplier members to showcase products and services and is exclusively for FGIA Category 1, Category 2 and GPC-only Supplier Members.

On Wednesday morning, the Wall Interface Council will host a hands-on workshop. Several stations will include demonstrations of the proper application of materials common to fenestration installation.

Lastly, attend the Oktoberfest-themed outing at the local Surly Brewing on Wednesday night, sponsored exclusively by Cardinal Glass Industries. The event will feature a live musical performance by the Jolly Huntsmen Polka Band, which was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame this year. Participants will also enjoy a brewery tour and contests for prizes. The suggested dress code is traditional Bavarian attire.

Speakers and Presentations

Topics covered at the FGIA Fall Conference will include:

• “Construction Mockups and Testing: Overview, Trends and Best Practices,” presented by Christopher Grey of SGH
• “What Do We Need to Know When it Comes to New Commercial Energy Codes in Minnesota,” presented by Don Sivigny of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
• “EPDs: Where Do We Go from Here,” presented by Richard Braunstein of Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope
• A color forecast and trends, presented by Kiki Redhead of Sherwin-Williams
• “How Will New Laws Help Reduce the Use and Presence of PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Minnesota,” presented by Dana Vanderbosch and Kirk Koudelka of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• “Corrosion Research,” presented by Vicky Gallen of Sherwin-Williams
• NAFS Committee | Decoupling Air-Water-Structural Performance Work Group

Event Sponsorship

Sponsorship spots are available for the FGIA Fall Conference, during which companies can promote products to industry influencers and expand their reach. Several levels and package options are available to serve any budget. Space is limited and sponsorship opportunities close on Aug. 23.

In-Person Registration

FGIA members can take advantage of early-bird pricing between now and Aug. 23 and register for the conference for a fee of $1,050. An extended early-bird rate of $1,300 will be available through Sept. 2, with registration available at the price of $1,500 after that date. Non-members may register for $1,600.

Virtual Registration

Individual virtual registration for FGIA members will be available at an early-bird discount of $350 until Aug. 23. An extended early-bird rate of $400 will be available through Sept. 2, with registration available at the price of $450 after that date. FGIA member companies may register up to 10 participants for an early-bird rate of $875 by Aug. 23, with rates increasing to $950 through Sept. 2. The regular cost of a company registration is $1,200. Non-member individuals may register for $1,600.

For more information about FGIA and its activities, visit FGIAonline.org.