Friday, October 30, 2009

Eighty Gather for NFBA Regional Conference in Tulsa

Eighty Gather for NFBA Regional Conference in Tulsa 

A one-day NFBA Regional Conference held last fall could result in the formation of an NFBA “Heartland Chapter” based in Tulsa and encompassing the states of Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Kansas.

The October 21, 2009, conference was held at Tulsa’s Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center and attracted 80 builders, suppliers, and other industry professionals serving the post-frame market in those and neighboring states.

Nearly 30 meeting attendees expressed interest in organizing a local chapter. Brian Keane of the National Barn Co. is spearheading this effort and worked closely with NFBA staff to plan the regional conference. "We have needed a local chapter in this region for a long time," Keane said. "This will be a great opportunity to network with others in the industry and increase awareness of what the NFBA is doing on our behalf. It's encouraging to see how many companies are interested and excited to be involved in this local chapter."

Attendees also learned about NFBA benefits and initiatives that can help grow their businesses and expand the reach of the post-frame market. Featured presenter and NFBA Board Chair-Elect Larry Edema addressed topics of particular importance to members, including activities stemming from the Post-Frame Market Initiative (PFMI). Edema cited the progress made so far in converting a six-part curriculum in post-frame design (developed by NFBA Technical & Research Advisor Harvey Manbeck, PE PhD) into online training modules for architects and designers. Edema also emphasized the benefits of participation in NFBA chapters, and the outlined the required member commitment to form a new one.

NFBA thanks the regional conference sponsors for their generous support of this event: AJ Manufacturing Inc, AkzoNobel Coatings, Central States Mfg., Fabral, Inc, Indaco Metals, Leland Industries Inc, McElroy Metal, Inc , MWI Components, Perma-Column, Plyco Corporation, and Sealtite Building Fasteners.

For more information on the proposed Heartland Chapter or starting a NFBA chapter in your area, please contact NFBA headquarters at nfba@nfba.org or call 800-557-6957.
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