The spotlight’s on the post frame industry

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn how NFBA highlights and supports the industry through education, events and more! 

In an episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards spoke to Robyn Ommen from Sherwin-Williams, Joe Shimp from Conestoga Buildings, Josh Nowlin from Burrows Post Frame Supply, and Megan Pope from Midwest Roofing Contractors Association (MRCA). These four industry experts are all a part of the National Frame Building Association (NFBA), the nation’s voice for the post frame industry.  

Megan explained, “NFBA exists to support members who are post frame builders and associate members that supply them with everything they need to create those buildings.” They do this by maintaining industry tools and code resources to help people learn about this method of construction. For members, there are also legal and technical experts for their daily needs. One of their biggest events is their annual expo.  

This year marks the 56th anniversary of the expo and Robyn explained a little bit behind the scenes, “We have a lot of different committees and little focuses from safety to technical.” One of the big initiatives for the upcoming expo on March 6-8, 2024, is involving more women in the industry. They are supporting this by creating networking and outreach opportunities. Josh highlighted a few of the things to expect in Des Moines, Iowa this spring, “NFBA focuses the show floor to experiences, demonstrations, a little different than the educational track, this is hands-on.” Joe added that, in addition to networking and education, the expo features an award ceremony, “I love looking at the work that people in our industry and our members do, it's our opportunity to push our industry forward and improve what we are.” 

They are also putting a lot of effort into launching an online curriculum this year. Josh elaborated, “We partnered with the University of Missouri to complement current trade school programs and make post frame more recognized within the industry.” This focus on educational access also supports their initiative to build a more diverse community, starting by involving more women. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the full podcast to learn more about NFBA and the 2024 Expo!