Day 2 at BUILD26

By Tanja Kern, Strategic Content Editor

Energy remained high on Day 2 of BUILD26 as more than 2,000 wall and ceiling industry professionals continued gathering in New Orleans for AWCI’s annual convention. The day was marked by recognition, reflection and a strong focus on the industry’s future.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the 2026 AWCI Pinnacle Award to Scott Casabona of Sloan & Co., whose leadership and contributions have made a lasting impact on the industry. Attendees also celebrated the Excellence in Construction Award winners, recognizing projects that exemplify innovation, craftsmanship and a commitment to safety.

The trade show floor added to the momentum, featuring approximately 145 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and innovations. The space also hosted live conversations at the Walls & Ceilings “If Walls Could Talk” podcast booth, where industry leaders shared insights and perspectives, creating another hub for connection.

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Tanja Kern covers economic trends and the intersection of architecture, design, and construction for Walls & Ceilings, with an emphasis on the forces reshaping the industry. She develops and amplifies content that connects construction professionals with the intelligence they need to compete and grow.

With more than 20 years of experience, Tanja has written for national business, consumer and trade publications. She holds a Master of Science in magazine publishing from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. She can be reached at kernt@bnpmedia.com.