Creating Stability in Tradeshow Networking

One of the best parts of starting a new year is having a fresh perspective about what is possible. As a species, we are often optimistic at the start of every year, hoping for a little more or, at the very least, stability. Market analysis reports are just being released as 2026 gets underway. Expectations for growth during 2026 as of the fall 2025 were low. Based on that, most industry leaders urge contractors to balance risks and opportunities, seize new opportunities, and plan ahead for volatility and uncertainty.

We find that forging ahead is best accomplished by finding partners and alliances within the construction industry. Those relationships strengthen every time we attend trade shows, including Build26 and AIA26.

Build26, a convention and expo brought to you by the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI), showcases products, services and solutions from all markets, including drywall, ceilings and acoustics, lath and metal framing, plaster, EIFS, insulation, software and more. The convention and expo bring people together from across the industry for a variety of education sessions and networking receptions. Flex-Ability Concepts will be at booth 645 from March 15-18 in New Orleans. The keynote speaker is Kevin Brown who will share ideas and strategies about how to go beyond the status quo to make a real difference in your business.

Next up is AIA26, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Conference on Architecture & Design in San Diego, June 10-13. With more than 600 brands spotlighted, Flex-Ability Concepts is a tiny portion of what is on display at the show. We consider ourselves fortunate to be immersed among the product, technology and business offerings while mingling with some of the most brilliant minds in architecture and construction. AIA26 is promoted as sparking real-time innovation, discovery and engagement with immersive learning, inspiring keynotes, architect-led tours and networking events.

At the events, we will be showcasing all of our products, including the latest offerings of Snap Lock bridging bar and Slotted Flex-C Trac. We travel to these shows to highlight our business and products, but it is the networking, problem solving and curve talking that pulls us back every year. Like everyone else, we keep a pulse on the construction industry trends and forecasts too, but we do so with a positive outlook in search of new opportunities.