The WDMA Technical & Manufacturing Conference fosters both technical and professional development and is the premier destination to participate in leading-edge conversation on emerging technologies, manufacturing applications, regulatory issues, and a wide range of topics of interest to the window, door, and skylight industry.

This year's conference features a curated program of panels, and sessions that have expert speakers to learn from past experiences and discover strategies and best practices that will give you a competitive advantage. These leaders will offer innovative ideas, compelling insights, and effective strategies to take back to your companies.

All times are reflected in Central Standard Time. 
Please note that this schedule is tentative.

Click here for a draft of the full conference program.

        

7:00am - 5:00pm

Registration is Open

7:00 - 8:00am

Networking Breakfast
Ensure that you are running on full cylinders! The Continental Breakfast is a chance for attendees to fill up on coffee, grab some food, talk with exhibitors, and network with each other.                        

8:00 - 9:15am

Operational Leadership: Making 'Safety First' a Reality

Mark Bentham, Senior Operations Executive, Marvin

This session, led by an operations expert, explores building a workplace culture where "safety first" is a reality, not just a slogan. Through real-world examples, it emphasizes leadership behaviors, operational foundations, and continuous improvement, providing actionable strategies to foster safety excellence. Attendees will gain the tools and mindset to lead their organizations toward a safer, more proactive environment

9:30 - 10:30am

Fire Codes

Navigating Change: Regulatory and Code Updates Shaping Canada’s Fenestration Industry

Adrian Edge, Director of Codes and Regulatory Affairs, Fenestration Canada

This session, led by regulatory expert Adrian Edge, offers an in-depth look at the Canadian fenestration industry's evolving landscape. It covers key building code updates, energy efficiency standards, and regulatory changes impacting manufacturers and suppliers. Attendees will explore common industry challenges, potential tariff threats, and practical strategies for navigating these shifts, gaining insights to confidently address the regulatory environment.

10:30 - 11:00am

Networking Coffee Break

11:00 - 12:00pm

Inside the Fire Lab: Understanding Fire Testing & Certification Procedures

Michael Luzier, President & CEO, Home Innovation Research Labs Inc.

This session, led by Michael Luzier, demystifies fire testing for window and door manufacturers. Attendees will gain insights into lab procedures, certification protocols, and budgeting for tests. It also highlights the distinctions between certification and R&D testing, showing how R&D can drive innovation. This insider perspective equips manufacturers to approach fire testing strategically and costeffectively.

LEED v5: Navigating the New Materials and Resources Credits

Matt Van Duinen, Sustainability Director, WAP Sustainability

Discover the latest in sustainable building with Matt Van Duinen, Sustainability Director at WAP Sustainability and Vice-Chair of the MR Technical Advisory Group. This session delves into the evolution of LEED MR credits from v4.1 to v5. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of LEED v5 priorities, the impact of its credits on building product manufacturers, and actionable insights like scoring products using the new Building Product Selection and Procurement credit. Tailored for window and door manufacturers, the session emphasizes the need to prepare for LEED v5’s market shift and its implications on customer interactions.

12:00 - 1:00pm Networking Lunch with Exhibitors 

Get a look at innovative products and services to meet your business demands. Experience how sponsors can help you transform for the future. The exhibit hall Sponsors will have the opportunity to display on–demand demonstrations allowing a unique opportunity for you to connect with some of the top professionals presenting industry–leading solutions.

1:00 - 2:15pm

Design Meets Delivery: What Builders & Architects Need from Manufacturers

Jim Petersen, Vice President of Research & Development, Lennar

Jonathan Sukonik, Partner, Sukonik Building Companies

This dynamic panel discussion explores the critical intersection between product design and real-world application, focusing on what builders and architects truly need from window manufacturers. Industry experts will examine how decisions around window design, component selection, and manufacturing quality control directly impact usability, performance, and serviceability on the job site. The session will delve into how small volume builders approach purchasing differently than large-scale counterparts, with particular attention to their emphasis on operational performance, ease of serviceability, and long-term value. Attendees will gain insight into how manufacturers can better align their offerings with builder and architect expectations, ultimately strengthening partnerships across the construction process.

 

 2:15 - 3:15pm

The Future is Now: How AI is Transforming Window & Door Sales

Mark Uible, Vice President, Threekit

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept—it's actively reshaping how window and door manufacturers sell, operate, and grow. In this forward-looking session, AI manufacturing expert Mark Uible will share real-world examples of how companies are using AI to improve customer engagement through tools like self-service design platforms and virtual consultations. Attendees will explore how AI is driving digital transformation in sales and learn practical, scalable strategies for implementing AI, no matter the size of their organization. The session will also address the evolving skillsets required to adapt to this new technological landscape and remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

 

Beyond Compliance: Turning Policy Into Opportunity for Manufacturers

Adam Peer, Senior Director, Packaging, American Chemistry Council

Window and door manufacturers are under increasing pressure to meet demands for sustainable materials and reduced carbon footprints. EPR and recycled content mandates are no longer optional considerations—they are critical for maintaining business continuity and meeting market expectations. This session equips manufacturers to address these challenges proactively, avoid cost surprises, and position themselves as sustainability leaders in a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. Attendees will gain insights into navigating evolving regulations, understanding advanced and mechanical recycling technologies, and engaging in policy discussions to shape effective EPR systems.

3:15 - 3:45pm

Networking Coffee Break

3:45 - 5:00pm

Notes from the Labs: Updates on National Laboratory Innovations for Fenestration

Robert Tenent, Senior Materials Scientist, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 

This session will provide an overview of ongoing research at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and other national labs, focusing on projects under the DOE Buildings Technologies Program and collaborations with industry partners. Attendees will gain insights into advancements in vacuum insulating glass durability, upgrades to research facilities, and emerging technologies poised to impact the fenestration industry. This session highlights opportunities for collaboration and innovation in addressing industry challenges.

5:30 - 8:00pm

Networking Reception & Supplier Appreciation Dinner

Join us for an unforgettable evening of connections and camaraderie! Kick off the night at the vibrant networking cocktail hour, where you can share experiences, exchange ideas, and catch up with fellow attendees in a relaxed and lively atmosphere. Then, celebrate the vital contributions of our industry partners at the Supplier Appreciation Dinner, a delightful event featuring great food, conversation, and recognition of the suppliers who help drive our success. Don’t miss this perfect blend of networking and celebration—your presence will make it even more special!