I am thrilled to welcome you to GlassBuild America 2025, my first time experiencing this essential trade show as the new president and CEO of the National Glass Association. It’s only day one, and this year’s show is already one for the books: a record 603 exhibitors, including 129 exhibiting for the first time; 130,000 square feet of exhibit space, the most in GlassBuild history; and a four-time TSE Gold 100 Award recipient.
Adding to that, you’ll find several new experiences this year. Check out the GlassBuild Skills Challenge, a hands-on and fun gathering place to connect with others and build your skills, plus, a chance to win some great prizes! There’s also the LIVE! At GlassBuild: Podcast Stage, with a packed schedule of interviews with industry insiders. We’re also hosting the Glass Magazine Awards for the first time during Blueprint for Collaboration on the Main Stage. We will celebrate the inspiring uses of glass in award-winning building design together with our architect and design partners.
Above all, GlassBuild provides a chance to make connections, and I’m looking forward to connecting with many of you. I have been on a listening tour since starting with the NGA, listening to members, staff and customers, and that continues here at GlassBuild. I want to hear what you need from NGA, how we can help you grow your business, and ways we can continue to make GlassBuild a must-attend event.
Throughout the week, you can find me at the Installing Committee Meeting and the Glazing Executives Forum, on the Podcast stage and celebrating the Glass Magazine Awards. I will also be mingling with members at the Member Happy Hour, presenting a leadership panel at the Women in Glass + Fenestration event, and celebrating a successful show at the GlassBuild-in-the-Fast-Lane After Party. I hope to hear from you.
Thank you for being here and contributing to the success of GlassBuild and our powerful industry. Here’s to the best one yet!