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Fenestration Canada: Report from Montebello

The Fenestration Canada Annual Meeting was held at the Fairmont Château Montebello, Que., from June 7 to 9.

The Fenestration Canada Annual Meeting was held at the Fairmont Château Montebello, Que., from June 7 to 9. Attendees were able to take advantage of a very informative and exciting program. Delegates were updated on technical issues, trends and topical subjects. Ample networking opportunities and fun-filled activities were also scheduled in the beautiful resort setting.

The seemingly insatiable appetite and quest for information and updates on current issues and challenges facing the industry was addressed by the array of presentations on the program schedule.

Jeff Baker, Fenestration Canada’s technical consultant was on hand to go over the latest issues involving building and energy codes and standards. The presentation helped demystify the sometimes complicated technical language that accompanies published reference material.

Delegates were able to get updated on the latest issues and trends in these areas.

J.F. Kogovsek of Maxam Marketing.com presented the highlights of Fenestration Canada’s strategy designed to inform building and code officials across Canada about practical issues stakeholders have in dealing with code sections that are key elements for those installing windows, doors and skylights. The training presentation also provided an overview of the North American Fenestration Standard and how performance requirements for fenestration products are determined.

 Tracy Rogers, director of industry relations and advanced technology for Quanex Engineered Products Group, presented delegates with a comprehensive update on the latest trends, issues and challenges related to the “green agenda” for fenestration products. The implications of how this area can dramatically affect one’s business were of interest to all!

The Canadian Standards Association was also invited to update delegates on the most current
developments regarding the Fenestration Installation Technician personnel certification program.
Fenestration Canada and the Siding and Window Dealers Association of Canada are involved in
determining the market need for a training program to prepare persons who will be required to obtain FIT certification.

Mike Burk, product and sales specialist for Quanex Building Products, delivered a very informative presentation on the subject of preventing glass handling injuries. This was a topical subject area and drew interest from those concerned with safety issues when working with glass.

Joe Edl, president of TSI (Techcentiveservices Inc.), provided some good tips and information on leveraging grants and tax credits for your business, which caught the eyes and ears of all the business-focused delegates. It seemed everyone was out to ensure they have a cost-effective and productive business.

The feature presentation was given by Scott Wilson, president of RankHigher.Ca, who brought delegates up to date with regard to doing business on the Internet and search engine optimization. The lack of an effective web marketing strategy by many Canadian companies has been cited as a problem that, unless reversed, will mean a widening gap in lost Internet sales in the years ahead. The captivating presentation was designed for decision makers, empowering them with the necessary knowledge to make the best Internet business decisions using proven strategies.

Fenestration Canada gratefully acknowledges the support it received from program sponsors and delegates who participated in the tranquil yet stunningly beautiful setting that Montebello has to offer. Attendees were able to take advantage of both educational and networking opportunities that benefited their businesses.

Yvan Houle is president of Fenestration Canada. Fenestration Canada’s
mission is to represent and support all aspects of the window and door
manufacturing industry.