Get your 2026 groove back on track in Sacramento

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The 2026 IIBEC Convention is an opportunity to reconnect with peers, expand professional networks, earn continuing education credits and explore solutions on the trade show floor.

If you are ready to reset your rhythm for 2026, it is time to head to Sacramento for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) International Convention and Trade Show. Designed for building enclosure consultants, contractors and industry professionals, this year’s event brings together leadership insight, technical expertise and forward-thinking strategies to help attendees stay competitive in a rapidly changing construction landscape.

Attendees can start their convention experience with a strategic look at the legal and business forces shaping construction. The session State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends, presented by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese on Friday, March 13 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective credits. Participants will gain insight into critical contract provisions, emerging regulatory activity and practical risk management strategies they can apply immediately. For consultants and contractors navigating increasingly complex projects, this session provides guidance that can help protect businesses while strengthening client relationships.

That afternoon, the Opening Ceremony and keynote will comence (Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.). It will feature award-winning filmmaker and dynamic storyteller Brett Culp. Titled Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times, his talk challenges attendees to rethink leadership not as authority or title but as service, authenticity and mission over ego. Through cinematic storytelling, humor and powerful real-world examples, his presentation is designed to leave professionals energized, grounded and ready to lead with clarity even when the ground feels unsteady. It is the kind of keynote that goes beyond inspiration, offering a renewed perspective on how strong leadership can guide teams and projects through uncertainty.

Then Sunday morning (9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) kicks off with Aaron B. Nelson, RBEC, RRO's presentation of The 1,000,000 Square-Foot Conundrum and Other Boxes to Climb Out Of, also approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective credits. Using real-world case studies, the session explores how reframing problems, breaking down complexity and tailoring solutions to each building’s unique needs can lead to stronger outcomes for both clients and project teams. Large-scale projects demand creative thinking and strategic execution, and this presentation offers practical tools that attendees can bring back to their organizations.

Later that day, from 4:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tom Gernetzke, F-IIBEC, RBEC, CBECxP, and Amy Peterselli, JD, will lead Navigating the High-Risk World of Community Association Projects. Approved for 0.75 IIBEC CEH and 0.5 AIA LU/Elective credits, this advanced session examines one of the highest-risk categories consultants face. Attendees will learn about legal and insurance considerations, communication strategies and risk management techniques that support successful HOA and condominium projects while helping protect their practices.

Throughout the entire convention, RoofersCoffeeShop will be on site with a live sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid.  Make sure to stop by and share your insights on the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the building envelope industry in 2026 with our crew. 

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC Convention is an opportunity to reconnect with peers, expand professional networks, earn continuing education credits and explore solutions on the trade show floor that can drive business forward. As the industry continues to evolve and client expectations rise, events like this provide the clarity and momentum professionals need to lead with confidence. Now is the time for contractors along with building envelope consultants to get their grove back on track.

Review the full schedule, secure your registration and make plans to join the building enclosure community in Sacramento. Visit IIBEC.org to learn more and register today.