Students in the Construction Management Technology program at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wis., are learning to frame curved walls, soffits and ceilings using donated products from Flex-Ability Concepts. By working with Flex-C Trac and Flex-C Arch, students gain hands-on experience with metal framing track that can be curved by hand, offering an alternative to traditional curved framing methods.

The two-year associate degree program covers all aspects of construction project management and currently enrolls 54 students. FVTC offers residential, commercial and industrial construction coursework through degree and certificate programs, as well as apprenticeships.

Robert Widmer, director of sales and marketing at Flex-Ability Concepts, said the company donated materials to give students direct experience creating arches, curved soffits, walls and architectural clouds. He noted that familiarity with curved track systems before entering the field can help ease installation challenges on curve-related projects.

Rich Cass, LEED AP, department chair for Construction Management Technology at FVTC, said product donations reduce instructional supply expenses and help familiarize students with suppliers and materials they are likely to encounter in the field.

Flex-Ability Concepts donated six 20-gauge, 3 5/8-inch Flex-C Trac pieces and two 20-gauge, 3 5/8-inch Flex-C Arch pieces. Flex-C Trac is manufactured from galvanized steel and is available in 20-, 18- and 16-gauge thicknesses in a range of widths. It can be curved to a specified radius for applications including curved walls, columns, arches, S-curves, domes and barrel vaults.

To form the desired radius, the installer lays out the curve on a solid surface, such as concrete, then bends the track by hand into position. Hammer-Lock tabs are secured with a hammer to hold the shape, and self-tapping screws may be installed at the sides for additional strength. The track is then fastened to the floor or ceiling structure.

Flex-C Arch is manufactured from 20-gauge galvanized steel and is available in commercial widths of 2 1/2, 3 5/8, 4, 6 and 8 inches. Standard length is 7 1/2 feet, with a minimum radius of 9 inches. Designed for arches at doorways and windows, as well as curved soffits and architectural clouds, the product locks into shape using Hammer-Lock tabs or screws and attaches to metal or wood studs.

Widmer said that incorporating classroom instruction with hands-on training can help reduce hesitation around curved framing applications. He added that the company is pleased to support FVTC’s mission and future construction professionals.

Cass noted that architectural designs frequently incorporate curved walls, soffits and bulkheads, requiring constructors to adapt to non-linear elements. He emphasized that selecting appropriate materials and installation techniques for unique architectural features improves efficiency and supports stronger financial and time management outcomes on projects.

For more information, visit flexabilityconcepts.com.