At AWCI, we believe it’s a core responsibility of any trade association to educate its members—for the benefit of individuals, their employers and the industry as a whole. Since 1918, education and professional development have been fundamental to AWCI’s mission.
A few years ago, AWCI’s leadership made a strategic decision to reinvest in our educational programs. While our “Doing It Right” brand had strong recognition, some of the content and delivery methods needed to evolve to better serve today’s learners.
We began this revitalization with EIFS—Doing It Right®. With its associated Mechanic, Industry Professional and Inspector certifications—along with the EIFSmart Contractor Seal recognition—this was a significant undertaking. Thanks to the leadership of Annemarie Selvitelli, the project management of Thao Nguyen, the insights of subject-matter experts from both contractors and manufacturers, and the expertise of our development partner Blue Sky eLearn, we launched a completely reimagined, online, self-paced EIFS—Doing It Right® course in early 2024. It is now available in both English and Spanish and has set a new standard for our education offerings.
Next came Stucco—Doing It Right®. What was once a limited in-person class is now an expanded, accessible, online course—again in English and Spanish. Released as this issue of the magazine goes to press, this new format ensures the broader industry has consistent, high-quality training on proper stucco application.
We’re also hard at work on an updated Steel—Doing It Right® program, scheduled for release by the end of 2025. A dedicated team of subject-matter experts is shaping the curriculum to align with the latest codes, standards and best practices.
Even before the updated Steel—Doing It Right® program is released, development will begin on our next program—whether an update to an existing course or something entirely new. Stay tuned for more details later this year.
In addition to our flagship courses, AWCI provides a broad spectrum of educational resources:
More than 20 free webinars annually on industry trends, technical issues and new wall and ceiling innovations.
In-depth technical publications like the Stucco and Drainage Planes Technical Document (2nd Edition) and the Wall and Ceiling Industry Trends Report.
Project Manager Development Series, which helps elevate project managers’ skills and leadership.
Educational sessions at our annual events—BUILD: AWCI’s Convention + Expo and the Industry Leaders Conference—which consistently deliver high value to attendees.
The benefits of AWCI’s educational programs include:
- Skill development
- Networking opportunities
- Leadership growth
- Advancement of industry standards
- Mentorship and ongoing support
AWCI’s commitment to education is designed to make our members more knowledgeable, better connected and fully equipped to lead the industry forward. When a professional enrolls in an AWCI program, they can trust that it will be best-in-class—delivered with the quality and credibility our name represents.
Visit www.awci.org/education for more information.
Mike Stark, CAE, is the chief executive officer of the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry.
