As we edge closer to GlassBuild 2024, our team at Advantage Drafting is starting to feel the anticipation. Sponsors of this year’s glass, window, and door expo, North America’s largest, promise it will be more impressive than ever.
Taking place from September 30 to October 2, the event marks a new chapter in a different location — Dallas.
This edition of GlassBuild is set to feature over 500 exhibitors, and we are excited to announce that Nick McGowan, the CEO of Advantage Drafting, will be partnering with CAD-PLAN and will be present at their booth. The event will be spread across an expansive 207,400-square-foot space at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. To put it into perspective, the event’s exhibitor list almost doubled over the past 12 years, which is a clear indication of the rapid growth of the glass and fenestration industry, even through troubling times.
Of course, it’s not just the size of the event or new technologies that have us excited. The new market potential and the networking opportunities that come with it are just as good of reasons to go. Our philosophy is that as the industry continues to expand, so should the connections and innovation that define our future.
As we gear up for this year’s GlassBuild, we wanted to share why we believe this is a must-attend trade show. Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge products or insightful talks shaping the industry’s future, there’s something for everyone.
Building Up to This Year’s Event In Dallas
In preparation for GlassBuild 2024, there’s a lot more to be excited about than just the famous Texas hospitality that Dallas is known for, although that’s certainly a perk. This year’s event is set to offer a unique opportunity to connect with some of the top companies in our industry.
Face-to-face networking has always been a major part of the glass and fenestration industry. In an industry where staying ahead of the latest trends can set a company apart, having an event to meet industry peers, exchange ideas, and learn directly from experts is critical.
This year, we’re particularly excited to explore emerging trends in energy efficiency, sustainability, and AI digital integration. These are the kinds of innovations that will not only influence the future of our industry but also shape the construction sector as a whole.
And, of course, learning about new materials and technologies firsthand is one of the best ways to ensure you’re giving your clients top-quality products and services.
For those in sales, the benefits of attending an in-person show like GlassBuild are especially significant. Nothing compares to seeing the latest machinery in action, experiencing real-world performance, and witnessing service teams up close.
Exhibitors We’re Excited to See
The National Glass Association (NGA)
One of the highlights of GlassBuild 2024 will likely be at the Industry Pavilion (Booth #17009), where the National Glass Association (NGA) will showcase its impressive range of resources and advocacy efforts.
The NGA has long been renowned for its deep technical knowledge and commitment to advancing the glass industry. Through initiatives like MyGlassClass.com, it offers invaluable education opportunities for both the current workforce and the next generation of professionals.
MyGlassClass, in particular, provides a comprehensive suite of training courses for glazier apprentices, fabricator personnel, and glass installers. These courses are designed to equip workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles.
At the Industry Pavilion, the NGA will feature the Learning Lab, offering interactive course demos for hands-on training experience.
The Fenestration & Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA)
Also housed in the Industry Pavilion will be the Fenestration & Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA), another key player in the industry. The FGIA has long optimized the performance of glass, windows, doors, and skylights for homes and buildings using cutting-edge technology.l
More than a standards organization, the FGIA offers solutions through research, consensus-driven standards, product certification, and advocacy.
Additionally, the FGIA leads in education and professional development, equipping industry professionals for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
GlassBuild America 2024
GlassBuild America 2024 will be the hub of activity, offering three days of networking, learning, and thought-provoking discussions. Booth #19009’s Main Stage is open to all GlassBuild attendees, serving as a central hub for the industry.
This year’s speakers and events are exciting, with sessions addressing the pressing issues and opportunities in the glass industry. The Main Stage will feature a variety of talks and panels, perfect for networking and gaining valuable insights.
We’re especially looking forward to hearing from Emily Pilloton-Lam, the Founder and Executive Director of the nonprofit Girls Garage. Her discussion will revolve around the importance of recruiting young people into construction careers. As a TED-talk veteran, Emily brings a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to the table, and her session is sure to inspire.
Another sure-to-be highlight is Connor Lokar, senior forecaster for ITR Economics, who will offer a data-driven look at the economic trends impacting our industry. He’s been giving economic keynotes across the country since 2014, and his insights are always a must-hear.
The Women in Glass + Fenestration Keynote is another event we’re eager to attend, which will be a bit of a follow-up to last year’s session. This session will address women’s contributions and challenges in our industry, covering gender diversity, work confidence, training, and support.
Of course, we can’t forget Chris Beard, director of building products research for John Burns Research and Consulting, who is set to present the Window and Door Market Survey. This session will explore fenestration and residential building trends, offering key insights for market participants.
Find Advantage Drafting at GlassBuild 2024
We’re truly looking forward to this year’s GlassBuild 2024, and we can’t wait to connect with everyone attending! This year, our CEO, Nick McGowan, will be on the ground, representing Advantage Drafting alongside our partners at CAD-PLAN—a global leader in curtain wall design and facade engineering software solutions based in Germany.
You’ll find us at their booth, #22009. Make sure to stop by and say hello!
We’re proud to use CAD-PLAN’s ATHENA Complete AutoCAD-based technology, which ensures our drawings are as precise and adaptable as possible. ATHENA Complete streamlines revisions and reduces errors. We’re able to modify our drawings easily without manual edits. Watch Nick’s testimonial video below to learn more about how ATHENA Complete helps us deliver exceptional results for our clients.
As we gear up for the conference, we’re excited to discuss how we can collaborate on your next project. If you can’t make it to GlassBuild this year, don’t worry! Reach out to us anytime to learn more about how we can work together. We look forward to building something great with you.
