NGA Webinars Have Value: Marketing

Frank Reed, Managing Editor of leading Internet marketing blog, Marketing Pilgrim, led a webinar for NGA members early this month.  This webinar was free to all members. Frank went over the basics of social media for local business and ave an overview of the social media landscape including Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and location based services like Foursquare.

NGA members can view Frank's session anytime! And can attend the NGA member webinar series for free. https://www.glass.org/education-training-webinars.html

• If you would like to watch the Social Media webinar, click here and enter the password ngamember.
• If you want to learn more from Frank, you can download his July 2011 webinar: Maximize Your Local Marketing Efforts with Google Places. Click here and enter the password ngamember to download the recording.

Visit www.glass.org/education-training-webinars.html to view a webinar schedule. These webinars and are only available to NGA members. Webinars are just one of the benefits you get by being an NGA member. Learn more about your NGA membership benefits.

Upcoming NGA and Chapter Events

At the industry's main events, both attendees and exhibitors have the opportunity to learn about the hottest trends, see the latest products and technology, make important contacts, and show their support to the glass and glazing industry.  The NGA and our chapters host events throughout the year.

The NGA Chapters host the following events:

• WGA: New Glass Products March 1, 2012
• Glass TEXpo 2012 April 12-13 2012
• Glass Day New England April 27, 2012
• Mid-Atlantic Glass Association MGA Glass Expo May 2, 2012

The NGA hosts and participates in the following events:

• Auto Glass Week September 20-22, 2012
• GlassBuild America®: The Glass, Window & Door Expo
• BIPV Event September 14, 2012
• Decorative Glass Seminar, September 14 2012
• Glazing Executives Forum September 12, 2012
• Window & Door Dealers Forum September 13, 2012

Check http://www.glass.org/events.html on a regular basis to learn more about our upcoming events.  Is there an event we forgot?  Email it to membership@glass.org.

Forecast for Economy and Construction Industry

One of America’s largest financial institutions sent a note to its clients in August saying, “The economy is only one shock away from falling into recession.”  Is this just hyperbole?  And what exactly constitutes a “shock?”

Could it be an ongoing accumulative European debt crisis?  Or perhaps a massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan that disrupt the global supply chain?  What about rising commodity prices, gas prices near $4.00 a gallon, banks that won’t lend money and stubbornly high unemployment that has weighed down the economy longer than any point in our post-World War II history?

These persistent troubles, and many more, were addressed by one of the nation’s most respected economists, at the 2011 GlassBuild America™ Expo in Atlanta.  Dr. Jeff Dietrich, a Senior Analyst with the economic consulting firm ITR, gave a broad overview of the U.S. economy and the construction industry – where it is now and where it is headed – in his presentation entitled “The Economy ~ 2011 and Beyond.”  Dr. Dietrich spoke Monday evening, September 12, during the 6th Annual NGA Glazing Executives Forum.  

Attendees at the Glazing Executives Forum heard Dietrich expand on these and other critical economic indicators as he painted a vivid picture of the U.S. economy in 2011 and 2012.  He explained how businesses are far better positioned today to navigate the uncharted waters of this tepid recovery than they were in 2008. 

During his presentation, Dietrich remarked: “The hard truth is that there will be no rapid change in economic conditions.  The present climate of uncertainty is disorienting as well as discouraging, but this is not the beginning of a double-dip.  Even though most construction sectors remain below 2010 levels, there is positive momentum in commercial construction.  Housing starts are climbing out of the mild secondary recession cycle and will head higher in 2012 and 2013.”

Jeff has been our anchor at the Forum for the last six years, and we’re delighted that he returned to give us his unique, industry-specific take on the economic outlook.  Some of our regular attendees say his presentation is reason enough for them to return to the event year after year.  His forecasts have proven to be invaluable in helping these executives develop their short- and long-term strategic plans. This year was no exception.

David Walker
VP Association Services

GlassBlog: A good return on investment

At the NGA and WDDA, we are all getting ready for GlassBuild America - it's just 2 weeks away!  Read more about GlassBuild, and what you can get out of it on this week's GlassBlog.  

As most of you know, GlassBuild America is right around the corner. This is the glass industry's one event that brings everyone involved with glass — glaziers, fabricators, manufacturers, dealers, etc. — together in one location. If you've never been, then this is the year to come. Let me share a few reasons why.

First, the cost is more practical than ever. Have you seen the price of flights to Atlanta? Not to sound like a used car salesman, but they're insanely low. A couple of the big travel sites (Yapta, Kayak, etc.) let you track the historical price of flights, and when you run them for Atlanta, they're as low as they've ever been. They've gone down even more in just the last couple days. So, the travel cost can't be an excuse. Go ahead, book a flight. Keep Reading

Serving All Industry Segments

At the NGA and WDDA, we serve all aspects of the glass and window & door industries.  Right now, we have programs targeting all of you:

• Architects Forum
  Combining educational programs, candid interaction, and professional networking, the Forum will offer fresh perspectives on how design, collaboration, and leading technologies interact with the glass industry. I urge you to attend this groundbreaking event.  Please review the online brochure and make plans to gather with your peers.  Register today!
• Auto Glass Certification
  NGA members pay just $69.00 to take a certification exam online. NGA members who register groups of 10 or more pay only $59.00 per exam.   If you register any of your technicians for the Auto Glass Technician, Master Auto Glass Technician, or Auto Glass Repair exams July 11-31, 2011, you will register to win a free certification exam. 
• Auto Glass Week
  Auto Glass Week™ 2011 is right around the corner this upcoming September 15-17, 2011 at the Memphis Cook Convention Center and Memphis Marriott Downtown. If you haven't already registered to attend, you need to register now.
• Glazing Executives Forum
  The Glazing Executives Forum is based on the fact that we’re more effective together than we are apart. Most of the critical issues in the glass and glazing industry are ones we all face, and together, we can find solutions. Whatever happens in your business – issues with suppliers, employees, or the economy – someone else is going through it and can help you. View the agenda and register today. We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta on September 12.
• Window & Door Dealers Forum
  When you attend this year's Window & Door Dealers Forum, September 13 in conjunction with GlassBuild America in Atlanta, you will have the opportunity to network with and learn from others in the industry.  The 2nd Annual Forum features speakers on two of the most critical issues facing dealers: risk and opportunities for growth.
  View the agenda for more information and register today.
• MyGlassClass.com
  MyGlassClass.com is designed for Architectural/Flat Glass, Auto Glass, and Window and Door companies as an affordable resource for improving worker skills, enhancing workplace safety, achieving professional certification, and complying with training requirements.  Get your employees trained by the best in the industry.

Let us know if you have any questions about our programs - akirkman@glass.org or akirkman@wddalliance.org.  We look forward to serving you.

Auto Glass Week: Register Now!

 

We know you're busy, we know you keep meaning to, but the truth is....there is no time left to procrastinate.

Auto Glass Week™ 2011 is right around the corner this upcoming September 15-17, 2011 at the Memphis Cook Convention Center and Memphis Marriott Downtown. If you haven't already registered to attend, you need to register now.

Early-bird registration closes next Wednesday, June 15.

Attendees can save $20 per employee if they register with this discount. Registration is available online at autoglassweek.com/register or call the event management staff at 540/720-5584 and they can mail/fax you a registration form. All registrations must be in by end of day June 15, 2011 to qualify for the early-bird registration discount. Pre-registration fees will apply to registrations receievd on June 16.

Auto Glass Week will bring together all of the major auto glass groups, including the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council (AGRSS), Independent Glass Association (IGA), National Glass Association (NGA), and the National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA), along with AGRR™ magazine’s Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Olympics and Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics. The International Window Film Tint-Off and Conference™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by AGRR magazine.

For more information, visit www.autoglassweek.com.

Educational Forums, Seminars at GlassBuild America

GlassBuild America is only 4 months away!  It's time to start examining the tradeshow floor to see what booths you need to visit and setting meetings with your customers.  As you plan to attend this year’s event, being held September 12-14, 2011 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, make sure you take a look at the exciting educational programs being offered.

With three full-day forums and two seminars, GlassBuild America will feature something for everyone. 

• 6th Annual NGA Glazing Executives Forum, September 12 
  A full day of interactive breakout sessions, expert speakers, peer-to-peer sharing and networking.  A must-attend event for every glazing professional.
• 2nd Annual WDDA Window & Door Dealers Forum, September 13 
  This event features breakout sessions, best practice sharing, top speakers and an informal networking reception. Content will be created and presented by window and door dealers.
• 1^st Annual NGA Architects Forum, September 13-14
  Co-presented by AAMA and the AIA Georgia and Atlanta chapters, this is an opportunity for Architects to learn more about the glass and glazing industry from industry experts and earn AIA credits. This forum includes tickets to both Thursday Seminars.
  
• Seminar: Building Integrated Photovoltaic: It’s Not the Future, It’s the Now,  September 14 Moderated by Richard Voreis of Consulting Collaborative, this seminar will look at the numerous applications of solar technology. Attendees will learn about market trends, the challenges and opportunities, integration with curtain walls and other fenestration products and more.
• Seminar: Trends in Decorative Glass,  September 14
  This session will cover trends in the fast-growing and ever-changing Decorative Glass segment. Facilitated by Kris Vockler of ICD High Performance Coatings, attendees will learn the latest issues in Decorative Glass and its potential impact for their businesses. Session information will include the latest information on standards and products.
  

Attendee registration for GlassBuild America and the educational programs is now open.  I'll see you in Atlanta!

Become a Part of Industry Networking and Education

I've talked about networking opportunities with the NGA and WDDA on this blog before - Good Old-Fashioned Networking - but it's a topic we can't talk about enough.  Networking is an important and easy way for you to interact with potentional vendors, future customers, and industry peers.

Every year, the NGA hosts GlassBuild America: the Glass Window & Door Expo - it's being held September 12-14, 2011 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta.  The NGA and WDDA are hosting several educational and networking opportunities at this year's event:

• Glazing Executives Forum September 12, 2011
• Window & Door Dealers Forum September 13, 2011
• Architects Forum September 13, 2011
• Educational Seminars September 14, 2011
• Building Integrated Photovoltaic: It’s Not the Future, It’s the Now.
• Trends in Decorative Glass

Mark your calendars today and plan on joining us for these annual events - so that you can meet, network with, and learn from the leaders in the glass and window & door industries. Are interested in meeting with glaziers and window and door dealers because they are your customers? If so, several sponsorship opportunities are still available for the forums.  

We can't wait to see you in Atlanta!

2011 Glass Management Institute

Successful glass industry executives know the value of good training and a network of industry contacts.  The NGA is committed to offering that value through the industry’s leading professional development program: the Glass Management Institute. There is no better training for a successful career in the glazing industry.

GMI’s class of 2011 kicks off in January with training specific to the glazing industry - topics that make or break your day-to-day operations: Bidding and Estimating, Project Management, Sales and Marketing, Financial Management, Legal Issues, and Strategic Planning.  Professionals will receive world-class instruction led by some of the leading experts and brightest minds in the U.S. glass industry.

Here’s what some of our recent graduates have to say about GMI:

• “The NGA’s Glass Management Institute gave me the opportunity to explore the industry’s toughest problems through the eyes of experienced leaders.”    Kristin Miller, Tab Glass and Window
• “GMI helped improve my understanding of the industry sector.  I will recommend others at my company become involved.”    Neil O’Donnell, GTS.
• “As someone young and relatively new to the industry, it is very helpful to have not only have peers but seasoned professionals at my fingertips as a resource as I develop my skills. GMI’s online format is helpful for posing questions, offering insight and providing opportunity for exploration of topics not covered in class.”    Patrick Barlow, Contractor.

For more information or to register, visit www.glass.org/gmi or contact me at 703-442-4890 ext 182 or mrumbaugh@glass.org.

We look forward to serving you.

Matt Rumbaugh
Senior Manager, Education and Training

Plan for Auto Glass Week and GlassBuild in 2011!

The industry is still in the midst of fall conference season, but it's time to mark your calendar for  events in 2011: Auto Glass Week™ and GlassBuild America. 

• Auto Glass Week™ will be held September 15-17, 2011, in Memphis, TN, at the Memphis Cook Convention Center and Memphis Marriott Downtown.
  
  The 2011 event will bring together the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS) Council Inc., the Independent Glass Association (IGA), the National Glass Association (NGA), National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA), AGRR Magazine’s Auto Glass Technician Olympics and the Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics for one event in one venue. The International Window Film Tint-Off and Conference also will be held concurrently.
  
  Auto Glass Week, managed by AGRR magazine, will be the only Auto Glass event these organizations hold in 2011. That makes it the place to be for Auto Glass businesses! Further details will be announced on www.autoglassweek.com.
  
  
• GlassBuild America 2011 will be held September 12-14, 2011 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. 
  The Show Floor at GlassBuild America is over 150,000 net square feet of exhibit space and is the  central showcase for glass processing equipment, window and door manufacturing equipment, and the latest technologies for all types of glass and fenestration products in North America. In addition, the show floor is home to the Innovations Pavilion which showcases cutting-edge technologies and other groundbreaking advances.
  
  Seminars offered daily address the unique concerns of the glass window and door industries providing insight into emerging technologies, industry trends and market updates. Planned sessions for 2011 include the 6th Annual Glazing Executives Forum, the 2nd Annual Window & Door Dealers Forum, and the Inaugural Architectural Forum. More information is posted throughout the year on www.glassbuildamerica.com.

Mark your calendars today for these exciting industry events!

You can follow all of the fall conference coverage, including coverage of GlassBuild America and glasstec, through Glass Magazine and Window & Door.

Learn the Value of Membership at GlassBuild America

GlassBuild America is less than 3 weeks away – it’s time for you to start planning what you’ll do once you arrive. With meetings, networking, and educational offerings, you have a lot to choose from.  Make sure you schedule in some time to stop by the Interactive Theater (Booth #1751) to learn about the value of NGA or WDDA membership.

The theater will include discussions about member services and recent developments in education and training, including presentations and Q&A about ContactPoint (Booth #528), UPS, Electronic Data Payment Systems (Booth #1312), Consulting Collaborative, MyGlassClass.com, and AAMA’s new FenestrationMasters program. View the NGA Interactive Theater Schedule. 

If you haven’t registered to attend GlassBuild America: The Glass, Window & Door expo, there is still time. Visit the GlassBuild site to register or view a complete schedule of events: http://www.glassbuildamerica.com/regpackages.htm.

Stop by Booth #1751 and enter the Creative Solutions Group sponsored prize drawing for a chance to win educational materials or a stay at an all inclusive resort.

I look forward to seeing all of you in Vegas!

Alyssa Kirkman
Sr. Manager, Association Services
NGA  WDDA

Your Business and the Future

Times are still tough out there economically, but we’re hearing from more and more of our members that things are getting a little better. Window and door work is picking up and some commercial contracts are finally starting to come to market. But while things may be improving in some ways, it only makes sense to keep looking for opportunities to work lean or consider new products and markets. In reading this month’s Inc. magazine (a must read for small businesses), a couple things caught my eye that local shops could think about.

First, in an article about the best industries for starting a business right now, environmental consulting is mentioned. These are businesses that help homeowners and businesses install green-friendly equipment and gear to improve energy efficiency. With the growth in Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) and other solar products along with things like RENOVATE from Edgetech IG and JE Berkowitz, there’s a lot of opportunity out there for glass companies. This issue is going to be a major theme at this year’s GlassBuild America, so if you haven’t made plans to get to Vegas in September, you need to do so soon.

Second, there’s a great tip in one column (unfortunately, not online yet) about managing cash flow. The author makes the point that the key to managing cash flow is managing your receivables. For a company with $3.5 million in annual sales, the difference between 51 days payable and 45 days payable is about the same as securing a $65,000 loan interest-free. We stress this same point with the NGA's Glass Management Institute students when we talk finance. You probably already know this, of course, but it can’t hurt to check to see if your receivables schedule is costing you money.

Another major area to look at is labor cost. In fact, this area is so important that we’ve made it the leading theme at this year’s Glazing Executives Forum. Jason Baumgarten, a consultant with FMI, will be with us to highlight ways that the best companies leverage their labor to improve efficiency and better manage their bottom line. This is session you don't want to miss.

What resources and/or tactics are you using to prepare for your future in the industry?

Matt Rumbaugh
Sr. Manager of Education, Training, and Certification
National Glass Association, Window & Door Dealers Alliance

Glazing Executives Forum: Improving Labor Productivity

A few weeks ago during one of our Glass Management Institute sessions, we were talking about cost management as part of our Financial Management module. Our instructor, Pepe Charles, was talking about the idea of managing costs and pointed out labor as the highest variable, noting that managing that cost was the key to profit. Lots of ears perked up.

It's not uncommon during GMI that as the instructor works through his presentation, students use the chat function to exchanges questions, thoughts, and ideas. As Pepe raised this point, lots of people chimed in that this was a major issue in their company. It seems that there's no easy way to forecast and manage your labor costs. Someone even asked "Does anyone out there have some tips for doing this?" Silence.

That made me think we had a solid topic on our hands for this year's Glazing Executives Forum (GEF). So the next day I did some searching and found myself looking at the offerings from FMI, a consulting group that specializes in construction-related companies. They offer a program on Improving Labor Productivity. I gave them a call to see if they'd be willing to present on this topic for us in Vegas and thankfully, they agreed.

We've made this the lead session at this year's GEF, and if you're like most businesses in our industry, this is a presentation you'll want to hear. We're even following it up with a breakout discussion group so you can go into more depth and hear the experiences of your fellow glazers. With this, economist Jeff Dietrich, and the chance to network with the best and brightest in the industry, the 5th Annual Glazing Executives Forum needs to be a highlighted event on your calendar. The event takes place September 14 as part of GlassBuild America.

Matt Rumbaugh
Sr. Manager of Education, Training, and Certification
National Glass Association

Good Old-Fashioned Networking

In this day and age, we communicate with people everyday online.  With email, face-to-face interaction is getting to be rare even in the workplace.  I know that I will often email a question to a colleague instead of picking up a phone or (heaven forbid) walking down the hallway and actually talking to them.  In this dog-eat-dog marketplace, we are all trying to get work done quickly and efficiently – at the expense of interacting with our coworkers, customers, and industry peers. Whether we’re emailing or using Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, we are talking to people around the country with the touch of a button.  We tweet, message, and email all day long - expanding our networks further than ever before -  but are we building lasting relationships?

Good old-fashioned networking is still an asset to your business and your career.  Building a network of people you can call to discuss issues with, or ask for advice, is crucial to success in any industry, and the hard part is knowing where to go to meet your industry peers.

GlassBuild America: The Glass, Window, and Door Expo is the gathering place for the entire glass, window and door industries in North America. This expo, being held September 14-16, 2010 in Las Vegas, offers opportunities on and off the tradeshow floor, including receptions and educational seminars.  This year’s tradeshow will also feature the 5th Annual Glazing Executives Forum and the 1st Annual Window and Door Dealers Forum. If you are a company owner, executive, or project manager, these forums offer invaluable networking opportunities.  Come to GlassBuild to connect with your industry peers in a way you can’t through a computer screen.

We’ll see you in Vegas!

Alyssa Kirkman
Sr. Manager