| October 1, 2024
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Ready to advance in the fence industry? The American Fence Association’s AFA University offers a range of comprehensive programs designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge.
Join us at our upcoming schools in Tulsa and Arlington from November 3-9 to master vital installation, management, and technological expertise. Click "Learn More" below for details.
Are you ready to take your fence and gate career to the next level? The American Fence Association Education Foundation (AFAEF) is proud to announce that applications for November’s AFA University events in Tulsa and Arlington are now open. These scholarships provide members the opportunity to advance their careers and demonstrate their commitment to excellence to customers. Whether you're looking to sharpen your fence installation skills or earn a new gate certification, these scholarships can help cover the costs associated with AFA University.
To apply, you must first register for the school, and then the link to apply for the scholarship will be in your registration confirmation email. The deadline to apply is October 11, so don't wait!
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There’s still time this year to take your career to the next level by becoming certified through the American Fence Association. We’ve been busy scheduling certification testing events across the country to bring certification right to you.
Up next:
• Hawaii – October 24, 2024
• Tulsa, OK - November 8, 2024 (AFA University)
• Dallas, TX – November 9, 2024 (AFA University)
• Salt Lake City, UT - February 26-27, 2025 (FENCETECH)
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AFA University Online, launched this summer, is your go-to hub for comprehensive eLearning on various fencing topics, including fence fundamentals, gate safety, career pathways, and business operations.
As fence contractors seek training and answers, we've created exciting sponsorship opportunities for suppliers. You can showcase your brand in our year-round virtual exhibit hall, sponsor free sessions, webinars, and summits, or even establish your own employee training portal on AFA’s site!
For more details, check out the sponsorship buyer's guide or reach out to Jim Hawarden, Director of Exhibits & Sponsorships, at 314.561.6717. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your visibility in the fencing industry!
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This month has been bustling for Women in Fence, with three successful events! We kicked off September at the West Coast Fence Show, where attendees enjoyed an escape room and axe throwing. Later in the month, our "By the Sea with the Carolinas" event was a hit, featuring a delightful brunch and plenty of opportunities for networking and idea-sharing among participants.
Our virtual Women in Fence Forum attracted over 50 participants, fostering engaging discussions on key industry issues and innovative solutions. The collaborative spirit showcased the strength and unity of our community.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this month! Don't forget to mark your calendars for our next Women in Fence Forum on November 14th. Stay tuned for registration links and check our social media for upcoming regional events through local chapters!
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The American Fence Association and the New York Long Island Chapter are excited to announce that Governor Kathy Hochul has signed S.7731/A.9888C into law, enhancing pool gate safety across New York. This legislation allows contractors to install pool gate latches according to ASTM standards, creating safer environments for swimmers.
AFA Executive Director Michael Reed thanked Governor Hochul and bill sponsors Assemblymember McDonald and State Senator Gallivan for their support. Mike DeLorenzo, AFA Chapter President Committee Chair Elect, praised the law as a major win for New York's fence companies.
This important step not only improves safety standards but also ensures better access for first responders in emergencies. Thank you to everyone who helped make this a reality!
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Fortress Building Products is pleased to expand its partnership with DecksDirect in advance of the 2025 building season. Adding to its current line-up of metal offerings from Fortress® (including metal railing, deck framing and pergolas), the national e-Commerce company is set to deliver Athens™ aluminum fencing and VERSAI® ornamental steel fencing to the virtual marketplace. This move will diversify DecksDirect’s inventory position, providing DIY homeowners and professional contractors quick and convenient avenues to purchase proven outdoor living solutions.
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An AFA Approved Education Provider is a member organization that has registered with AFA to provide education that meets the recertification standards for AFA’s credentialing programs.
There are many benefits related to this new program, designed to connect education providers with certificants looking for continuing education opportunities. Click "Learn More" below for all the details, and contact sara@americanfenceassociation.com with any questions.
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At AFA, we're dedicated to equipping you with the tools you need to reach your professional aspirations. We understand the importance of showcasing your credentials effectively in today's digital landscape. That's why we've teamed up with Credly to offer you a digital badge—a modern way to highlight your achievements.
If you've earned certifications like CFC, CGAT, CGAD, or COM, or completed educational programs such as FIS, FCBS, GADS, GATS, OMS, or STS, you should have received an email from Credly inviting you to claim your digital badge. This badge includes detailed information about your credential and allows you to effortlessly share your accomplishment on LinkedIn and other platforms — all at no cost to you.
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Safety and Health Magazine
During the 2024 NSC Safety Congress & Expo, OSHA announced that "Fall Protection – General Requirements" remains its most frequently cited safety violation for the 14th year in a row. The preliminary data, covering violations from October 2023 to early September 2024, also showed shifts in ranking for other top violations. Other significant causes of death included transportation incidents, workplace violence, and overdose.
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Construction Executive
The construction industry faces a critical challenge as over 2.5 million workers over the age of 55 are nearing retirement, potentially leaving significant knowledge gaps. With one in five workers expected to exit the industry in the coming years, leaders must focus on passing down vital trade expertise.
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Harvard Business Review
Proper preparation before starting a leadership role is key to success. Rather than relying on past habits, focus on closing out your current role, recharging, and understanding what’s needed to excel in the new position.
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AFA would like to welcome the new members who have recently joined the association.
We're glad you're part of the family!
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AFA would like to give a shout-out to our members celebrating anniversaries with the association.
We're honored to mark another year in our partnership!
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Did you know?
Our special program with Batteries Plus includes lighting!
Soon the days will be shorter and dusk will fall earlier. Before then, you’ll want to take a walk around your building's indoor/outdoor space and take note of any lighting outages or opportunities.
Some spots to check:
- Landscape lighting
- Parking lot lights
- Lighting for entryways
- Architectural lighting
- Office/warehouse lighting
- Motion sensor lighting
Start a list and get in touch with your Batteries Plus Business rep to place an order. Start saving on the lighting solutions you need now, and power on this fall.
Schedule a Site Walk
Don’t forget that free site walks are included with your Batteries Plus Business agreement. Our experts will come to you, do a complete walk through your space and make some suggestions - what’s working, what’s not and where you could potentially save some money.
Login or register now to start saving on battery and lighting today.
Already signed up; be sure to have the store associate ring up your order using your special MSP GPO account! Store associates can look up your special account by searching under your company name, phone or email.
If you have questions or need help, email us at member@batteriesplus.com
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
