It’s that time of the year again and Walls & Ceilings is proud to present our annual Convention Companion Guide. We are happy to bring you our most comprehensive list of the various trade shows, conventions, meetings and more. This list is a resource to keep our readers up-to-date on an expanding roster of trade events serving our industry.

Some shows do not yet have all dates and planning finalized. So stay tuned for any updates regarding these events.

We look forward to reconnecting with you at most of these events. Hopefully this Convention Companion will guide you on the right path for planning your 2025 schedule.

EIMA Annual Meeting 2025

March 18-20
Reunion Resort and Golf Club
Kissimmee, Fla.

This year, EIMA celebrates its 44th year, and what better way to help the Association than to join them near Orlando, Fla. The 2025 EIMA Annual Meeting will provide industry education, speakers, networking, golf, and more.

The annual meeting is always a great place to network, make new contacts, and to learn about the most current issues affecting the Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems industry.

Throughout this year’s three-day event, meeting attendees will learn what’s in-store to move the EIFS industry forward. The program is structured to encourage interaction among all who attend. Networking opportunities remain a hallmark of EIMA annual meetings, and include the popular Members Dinner, EIFS Excellence Awards Ceremony and the annual EIMA Golf Tournament.

The meeting provides a wide range of events that contractors can use to better position themselves in business. The annual golf tournament is a major part of the meeting, while non-golfers will have a fun event, as well.

Anyone in the EIFS industry is cordially invited to attend.

For more information, visit eima.com.

BUILD25 Convention + Expo - Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry Int’l. (AWCI)

March 31-April 3
The Westin Charlotte, Charlotte Convention Center
Charlotte, N.C.

The largest show specific to the wall and ceiling industry will be held in North Carolina’s beautiful city of Charlotte.

Highlighting the latest and greatest products, services and solutions to help your company thrive, all market segments are represented at BUILD25, including drywall, ceilings and acoustics, lath and metal framing, plaster, EIFS, insulation, tools, software and more.

The AWCI Convention and Expo brings people together from across the industry for a variety of in-depth education sessions and stellar networking receptions. The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry manages BUILD’25: AWCI’s Convention + Expo.

One of the many highlights of the convention is the AWCI Opening Session and Awards Presentation Brunch. Evy Poumpouras is this year’s keynote speaker. She is a multi-media journalist who regularly appears on the Today Show, NBC, MSNBC and Good Morning America, covering topics on national security, law enforcement and crime.

BUILD25 is the industry’s biggest trade show and features ceilings, drywall-related products, EIFS/stucco, steel framing, pumps/mixers, hand and power tools, building material cranes and lifts, insulation, plaster and accessories, software, and more. There are two days for attendees to walk the show floor and to get your time in chatting with loads of manufacturers, reps and colleagues.

Exhibitors will be on hand to offer new technologies, products and tools to enhance your productivity, and strategies to give you a competitive edge in your market. Meet with the manufacturers face-to-face to discuss their new product lines and company events.

Stop by Walls & Ceilings’ booth and meet our staff.

For more information, call (703) 538-1600 or visit awci.org/convention.

Ceilings & Interior Systems Construction Association (CISCA)

April 21-24
Bellagio Hotel
Las Vegas

This year, CISCA celebrates its 75^th Anniversary with the annual CISCA Summit being held at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Summit 2025 promises to be full of exciting opportunities to connect with your peers and celebrate the industry. Events include:

• Contractor Challenge
• Product Showcase
• 75^th Anniversary Celebration
• Construction Excellence Awards Diiner
• Networking Opportunities
• Education Sessions
• Emerging Leaders and Women Enhancing Business Meetings

Contractor Challenge—New This Year

The first-ever CISCA Contractor Challenge will highlight and celebrate the craftsmanship of CISCA contractor members and allow opportunities for contractor members to highlight their top talent.

Each CISCA contractor member may enter a single, two-person team for the Challenge. A limited number of teams will participate in the competition as space is limited. Teams will layout and install a specialty ceiling or wall system in a 12-foot-by-12-foot space. The Challenge takes place over a two-day period at the annual Summit event with a designated viewing pavilion planned at the installation area. There must be a person from the company registered for the entire Summit event.

Judges will evaluate and score each team’s craftsmanship and other criteria. Winning teams will be eligible for great prizes and top teams will be announced at the CISCA Awards Ceremony during the Summit event.

CISCA Connect – Fall 2025

This fall, join the association at CISCA Connect. This annual event is another opportunity to network with others in the industry and to spend some time with the exhibitors at “Meet the Vendors” and attend thought-provoking education sessions.

CISCA is still finalizing the fall Connect conference, but wherever the host location is, expect to have time to explore the city and visit the many restaurants and sites the area offers. If it resembles last year’s schedule, the event will have a high level of education as well as fun.

Visit CISCA.org for more information.

Air Barrier Association of America

May 6-7
Denver

The ABAA annual Building Enclosure Conference will be held May 6-7 in Denver. This event is the only conference that focuses on air barriers and building airtightness.

Come learn from some of the top minds in building science with expertise in building enclosures, moisture management, air barriers, sustainability and enclosure commissioning.

Why Attend?

The conference provides two full days of comprehensive learning tracks specific to design professionals, consultants, general contractors, subcontractors and others interested in the air barrier industry.

Exhibitors will include air barrier materials manufacturers, application equipment, testing labs and building enclosure consulting companies.

• Network with the leading experts in building science
• Obtain AIA CEU’s (HSW)
• Receive comprehensive education on air barriers and building airtightness
• Meet with the leading air barrier manufacturers and service providers nationwide

For more information, visit abaaconference.com.

FCIA Education & Committee Action Conference

October 13-16
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Orlando, Fla.

ECA ’25, the FCIA Education & Committee Action Conference, is an event focused on educating and engaging the firestop and effective compartmentation industry.

Filled with technical industry education, the FM & UL-ULC Firestop Exams, interactive FCIA Committee roundtable meetings, FCIA Contractor and Special Inspection Agency Members Only sessions, ECA ‘25 is the ideal opportunity to expand your knowledge and contribute to the development of the firestop industry.

For more information, please visit FCIA.org.

Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau: Wall and Ceiling Conference & Trade Show

May 15-17
Coeur d’Alene Resort
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

The 2025 Wall and Ceiling Conference & Trade Show returns to the beautiful city of Coeur d’Alene in May.

The Wall and Ceiling Conference is the premier event for signatory wall and ceiling contractors, gathering hundreds of the industry’s leading professionals and companies. This event features a cutting-edge exhibit hall, inspirational speakers, educational seminars, an Industry Summit and fun events to connect with your peers.

The conference offers an opportunity to engage with top industry leaders, explore the latest innovations in the exhibit hall, and gain valuable insights through a diverse range of educational sessions. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network, discover new products or stay ahead of industry trends, the 2025 Wall and Ceiling Conference & Trade Show has something for everyone.

Conference Highlights:

• Cutting-Edge Exhibit Hall: Featuring leading manufacturers and suppliers showcasing the latest tools, materials, and services that can enhance your business operations.
• Inspiring Keynote Speaker: Hear from our keynote speaker, Nora Burns, as she shares insights on workplace culture and strategies for attracting and retaining talent.
• Educational Tracks: Sessions tailored to both executive leadership and technical professionals, covering critical topics such as productivity improvement, legal updates, cybersecurity and the future of construction technologies.
• Unparalleled Networking: Meet and connect with industry peers at our welcome reception, evening dinners and annual conference golf tournament.

Who Should Attend?
The event is designed for contractors, suppliers, manufacturers and industry stakeholders who want to stay informed and competitive in today’s evolving market. Spouses and families are also encouraged to attend, with plenty of resort amenities and activities to enjoy.

Register early to maximize your event experience. Full conference registration includes access to all educational seminars, exhibit hall events, receptions and networking opportunities.

New for 2025:

• Full Access Tickets at a reduced price of $1,500.
• Spouse/Companion Tickets available for $300, providing access to all major conference events.
• Exhibitor booth staff can now attend the expo with discounted tickets for $300 each (max 3 per booth)

For more information, visit our website or contact us at events@wallceilingshow.org. Book your stay at The Coeur d'Alene Resort by April 4, 2025, to take advantage of exclusive room rates.

AIA ’25 Conference on Architecture & Design

June 4-7
Boston

Boston is an ideal place for this year’s AIA Conference, as the city displays both old and new architecture.

AIA Conference on Architecture & Design is the AEC industry’s premier event featuring over 600 exhibitors representing software and technology, energy efficiency, building systems, sustainability, finishes, lighting, and stone and tile restoration, as well as manufacturers from the wall and ceiling industry. Last year there were over 15,000 attendees. This year there will be broadened educational offerings to include AEC professionals from all career stages and to include more global perspectives.

AIA Convention on Architecture & Design is one of the largest gatherings of architecture and design professionals in the world, and is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it.

For up-to-date information on the show, visit conferenceonarchitecture.com.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference & Expo

June 16-18
Las Vegas

The National Fire Protection Association has announced that it will hold its 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

This year’s convention covers everything from fire prevention, wildfire preparedness and electrical safety, to hazardous materials, building and life safety, community risk reduction and public safety.

The NFPA Conference & Expo features a wide variety of 400-plus exhibitors, over 8,000 attendees and 120-plus educational sessions, workshops, and presentations with attendees from 94 countries. Collaborate and network with thousands of fire protection engineers, electricians, firefighters, building and facility managers, manufacturers of safety equipment, government officials, and all other safety professionals.

For more information on this event, and a list of the various webinars and other virtual products, visit nfpa.org/conference.

Regional Shows

Wall and Ceiling Alliance

The Wall and Ceiling Alliance’s Construction Excellence Awards & Excellence in Safety Awards Event has yet to name this year’s location (as of press time). For information on sponsorships, and Construction Excellence Awards application, please contact Sherry Hadnot at sherry@wallandceiling.org.

TLPCA Annual Convention

June 17-19
Margaritaville Resort
Montgomery, Texas

The Texas Lathing & Plastering Contractors Association Annual Convention and Trade Show will be held June 17-19. This is their 73rd Annual Convention and will be held at Margaritaville Resort in Montgomery, Texas.

As in year’s past, the Annual Convention & Trade Show will offer meetings, receptions, golf tournament, exhibitors trade show, educational program, an Annual Design Awards Competition, spouses program, awards banquet, dinners and entertainment.

All members and guests registered for the convention are welcome to attend the President’s Reception. Network and visit with colleagues and friends and help kick off the convention.

Additional information on registration and sponsorship opportunities will be available at tlpca.org.

FWCCA Annual Convention and Trade Show

July 24-27
Trade Show at the Bonnet Creek Hotel
Orlando, Fla.

The Florida Wall & Ceiling Contractors Association will hold its 2025 Southeastern Wall & Ceiling Annual Convention and Trade Show at the Bonnet Creek Hotel, in Orlando, Fla. on July 24-27. This year’s show will feature over 100 exhibitors, and over 700 attendees, from throughout the nation with many new, as well as returning exhibitors.

The Annual Golf Tournament will take place at the Waldorf Astoria Golf Course. There will be prizes, a raffle to benefit the scholarship program full of great golf items, and exhibits on the golf course with member companies giving away great items to all players.

There will be a trade show as in year’s past, which will be followed by the Association’s annual Industry Awards Luncheon and presentation on incoming officers and directors. Saturday night’s theme party will be another great event. In conjunction with the other festivities, there will be a silent auction throughout the evening to raise funds for the FWCCA Scholarship Program.

For more information, visit fwcca.com.

ICAA Convention & Trade Show

October 8-11
October, Fla.

The ICAA Convention & Trade Show is your one-stop shop to learn, network, and discover the latest insulation industry products and services from the best in the business. Every year, ICAA builds an educational program based on attendee feedback and timely industry trends, including sessions that run the gamut from business operations to building science. The star of the show, however, is the accompanying trade show, which features a lineup of the insulation industry’s leading suppliers and manufacturers.

For 2025, ICAA moves down south to the Sunshine State and is working on a carefully curated educational program that will include more interactive sessions.

Check the ICAA Convention webpage: insulate.org/convention frequently for updates and details as they are released.

FCIA Firestop Industry Conference & Trade Show

October 13-16, Hyatt
Regency Grand Cypress
Orlando, Fla.

FIC ’25, the FCIA Firestop Industry Conference & Trade Show, is the leading educational firestop conference in the world. The event brings together Specialty Firestop Installation Contractors, Special Inspection Agency personnel, AHJs, Manufacturers, and industry leaders for three collaborative days focused on educating, developing, and improving the firestop industry. The event is the place for solutions-driven learning.

The event features:

• FCIA Firestop Education for the Firestop Exams
• FM & UL-ULC Firestop Exams
• Technical Education tailored to cultivate expertise
• FCIA Memorial Golf Tournament
• FCIA Awards Dinner
• Other various activities

The FCIA also offers online courses and learning sessions throughout the year, both in the U.S. and abroad. For a list of these, visit the link below.

For more information and updates on the conference, visit fcia.org/Events/Conferences-Symposiums.

METALCON International Conference and Exhibition

October 21-23
Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas

After last year’s successful show in Atlanta, the event moves back to Las Vegas. METALCON is an event focused on metal construction products, technologies and solutions. As the show marks more than three decades of achievement, it sets the pace for shaping the future with metal through an unbeatable blend of new product exhibits, a nationally recognized education conference, and live-action demos of field techniques.

Join contractors, designers, developers, fabricators and suppliers from across the globe who attend this annual event. You’ll meet experts from forward-thinking companies who exhibit their top products and technology, and are eager to share their knowledge with you.

The education continues in METALCON’s comprehensive conference program presented by leading industry experts. This is the only forum where the topics are focused totally on the best use of metal across a spectrum of applications. The program covers every aspect of building with metal from the basics to the latest materials, tools, techniques, building codes, applications, cold-formed steel framing, green building, alternative energy, business management and marketing. Plus, the program offers continuing education credits.

For more information, please visit metalcon.com.

IIBEC Building Enclosure Symposium (BES+)

October 8-11
Orlando, Fla.

The Building Enclosure Symposium will be a live, interactive experience convening the best experts in the building enclosure industry.

The two-day event offers cutting-edge information regarding the design, construction, maintenance and repair of modern and/or older building enclosures, geared towards building enclosure professionals, architects, engineers, contractors and FMs.

Open instructor/attendee dialogue is encouraged, and expert speakers offer not only technical data but relevant, practical solutions by referencing real-world examples and specific case histories. Continuing education units are available.

Come learn from some of the top minds in building science with expertise in building enclosures, moisture management, air barriers, sustainability and enclosure commissioning.

The conference provides a comprehensive learning curriculum for design professionals, consultants, subcontractors, GCs and others interested in the building science industry.

The schedule is still being finalized. Check bes.iibec.org for up-to-date information coming soon.

STAFDA Annual Convention & Trade Show

November 9-11
Phoenix Convention Center
Phoenix

The Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association will hold its annual event in Phoenix. The show is open to members only. This annual event will serve its core members of contractors, suppliers and manufacturers in the tool and fastener industry.

Building Businesses: The STAFDA Trade Show is one of the few places distributors can put their hands on new and upcoming products from manufacturers spanning the globe. Demos featuring 35 primary product categories have the exhibit hall literally buzzing for hours. The savings received via STAFDA Show ONLY special pricing and terms often pay for distributors’ travel expenses several times over.

Bolstering Networks: Consistently, since its founding in 1976, STAFDA members site their fellow STAFDA members as one of the most valuable resources they’ve tapped since joining the Association. Adding to your personal STAFDA Community is always a major benefit to truly participating in the Convention & Trade Show. Members collaborating and sharing insights during the Opening Party, interacting and roll playing during hands-on interactive educational programs, and talking face to face in the exhibit hall stretch the impact of STAFDA membership beyond the Convention & Trade Show.

Reinforcing Foundations: How fast do things change in the world of business? AI went mainstream in 2023—ChatGPT now receives more than 10 million queries a day. The first YouTube video was uploaded in 2005—there are now 3.7 million videos uploaded per day. Can you afford to fall behind? STAFDA brings top-tier instructors with cutting edge information to one location so attendees can build up their own knowledge foundation, keep on top of trends, and see what is racing toward them in the future of economics, entrepreneurship, and leadership issues. This also includes an exclusive opportunity to interview and extend offers to university students studying industrial distribution, supply chain, or related majors for open positions.

For more information, please contact Catherine Usher, STAFDA Member Services Director, at cusher@stafda.org.

Rainscreen Association in North America (RAiNA)

November
Location TBD

The Rainscreen Association in North America has yet to name the location for its 2025 conference as of press time. RAiNA is an international not-for-profit association dedicated to serving the rainscreen market in North America.

About 100 people attended last year’s conference and participated in many educational sessions, in addition to networking with other industry professionals. The educational sessions covered a wide range of topics, from retrofit construction to the best uses for rainscreens.

During the conference, the winners will also be announced for the RAiNA Awards, which honors construction projects that include rainscreens. Categories to be submitted for the awards include Engineered Assemblies and ECO Cladding.

For more information, visit https://members.rainscreenassociation.org/eventcalendar.