The 2026 FGIA Fall Conference will combine technical education with practical training, offering attendees a series of interactive workshops and skills challenges designed to strengthen industry expertise. Taking place in Calgary, Alberta, the conference will provide window, door, and glass professionals with opportunities to apply best practices through real-world demonstrations and hands-on exercises.

One of the featured activities is the InstallationMasters® Proper Sill Pan and Self-Adhering Flashing Applications challenge. Based on FMA/AAMA 100, Standard Practice for the Installation of Windows with Flanges or Mounting Fins in Wood Frame Construction for Extreme Wind/Water Conditions, the workshop focuses on proper residential window installation. Participants will rotate through two practical stations where they will create flexible sill pans and correctly apply self-adhering flashing, reinforcing installation techniques that improve long-term weather resistance and performance.

A second interactive challenge draws from FGIA’s Insulating Glass Fabricators Workshop, allowing participants to evaluate critical aspects of insulating glass unit (IGU) fabrication. Guided by industry specialists, attendees will examine proper sealant mixing procedures and perform forensic investigations to identify common IGU defects and failure mechanisms. The exercise is designed to improve quality control and help manufacturers prevent premature insulating glass failures.

The conference will also support ongoing research into black vinyl window frames, a growing trend in contemporary architecture. Hosted by the FGIA Vinyl Material Council, the research station will invite attendees to evaluate digitally produced black panel samples displayed on color-corrected monitors. Participants will determine which levels of color variation they consider acceptable over time, contributing valuable feedback for future industry standards and product development.