Get ready to experience the best of innovation at the American Fence Association’s FENCETECH conference, February 24-28, 2025, in Salt Lake City, UT. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, FENCETECH 2025 is where the cutting-edge world of fencing meets the latest industry trends and technology. This isn’t your typical trade show – it’s a hub for innovation, networking, and growth! With engaging workshops and sessions that will equip you with the tools for success, plus an exhibit floor showcasing top-of-the-line products, you’ll be set to reach new heights. Lace up your winter boots and join us in Salt Lake City for a business-packed event that’s sure to inspire. See you there!

FENCETECH 2025 EDUCATION SESSIONS

All sessions, titles, descriptions, and speakers are subject to change.

Monday, February 24

Gate Automation Designer School

Monday, February 24
8:00am - 5:00pm
Joe LePier - DoorKing

Anyone who designs automated vehicular gates is encouraged to attend this two-day school.  This program is a combination of lecture, presentations and hands on gate system layout activities covering the following concepts and topics:

  • UL 325 for automated gate systems
  • ASTM F2200 and an Introduction to M.U.T.C.D. – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • Types of Gates
  • Types of Gate Operators
  • Introduction to Electrical Wiring
  • Access Control Devices
  • Vehicular Detection Systems
  • Power Failure Options
  • High Security Applications
  • Site Considerations

This 1.5-day course can also serve as an introduction to the gate automation industry. Individuals and companies considering expanding their business into gate automation can get a thorough overview of both system design and standards from this class. There is a certification exam offered after the classroom instruction. Successful certification will show that you and your company are professionals in our industry, however, participation in the certification exam is not required.

*The Gate Automation Designer School is not included in the Full Package, but can be added unto your FENCETECH registration. 

Leadership Academy

Monday, February 24
8:00am - 5:00pm
Robert Whittaker - Purple Coaching & Shawn Holland - Seegars

The American Fence Association Leadership Academy is a highly interactive one-day program that will equip you with the ability, knowledge, and mindset necessary to succeed each time you step up to lead.  

In addition to hands-on learning and application customized specifically for fence, gate, and perimeter security professionals, you'll also network with other aspiring leaders and experienced mentors who are guiding AFA and our industry into a future with limitless potential.  

Sales Training School

Monday, February 24
8:00am - 5:00pm
Roy Branch - Wood Defender, Randy Ward - Shiloh Fence, Shane Yarbrough - Bartlett Fence

STS is ideal for individuals in sales positions or individuals that would like to gain a better understanding of the sales process. STS helps to determine, meet, and exceed customers’ needs.

Course participants will learn and practice real world consultative selling techniques focused on the following five (5) modules:

  • Fundamentals of Buying and Selling
  • Positive Openings & Identifying Opportunities and Needs
  • Probing & Listening
  • Support Product/Feature/Benefit
  • Closing the Sale

*Sales Training School is not included in the Full Package, but can be added unto your FENCETECH registration. 

Tuesday, February 25

8 Figure Sales Team

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Ryan Goth - Sales Transformation Group

If you’re a contractor aiming to build and lead an eight-figure sales team, this session is your blueprint! Join CEO Ryan Groth and VP of Sales David Reed as they share strategies for recruiting top talent, optimizing sales processes, and enhancing team performance. Topics include leadership, door-to-door techniques, and mindset development, providing practical strategies to boost close rates, deal size, and revenue. Perfect for contractors ready to transform their sales approach and scale successfully!

Burn BRIGHT, Not OUT! Burn Out – Avoid it, Identify It , Conquer It

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Michael Whittaker - Magnolia Fence & Patio

Have you had enough? Are you stuck? Ready to give up? I was you before selling my company for $3 million. I have re-entered the industry and have learned to love it by setting personal boundaries, adjusting my goals, and my perspective. I want to share my experience with you, and give guidance on this topic. You are not alone on an island, I want to be there with you.

Level Up Your Future: Exploring New AFA Learning & Certification Opportunities for 2025 and Beyond

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Sara Surprenant & Nick Rike - AFA, Dan Streeter - Mission Fuel

Join Sara, Nick, and Dan as they unveil a dynamic vision for 2025 and beyond, packed with transformative opportunities and innovative learning experiences. In this interactive session, we’ll explore groundbreaking enhancements in education, including streamlined OTR training, the ever-expanding AFA University Online, flexible hybrid learning models, and a comprehensive 5-day AFA University experience.

Discover how new certification pathways are designed to elevate your career, with tools like online practice tests, expanded in-person and online testing options, and powerful ways to leverage your credentials with Credly to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Get ready to embrace the future of education, certification, and professional growth—your journey starts here!

No-Dig 101

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Shawn King - Mr. Fence Inc.

Let's explore how this tried-and-true method of constructing fences can be implemented into your fence business. 

Omnipresence for Fence Contractors

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Dave Caban - Fence Marketing Pros

Discover the keys to supercharging your fence company's online presence. We'll cover essential goal setting, the three pillars of marketing success, and the top marketing channels that maximize lead flow. Learn the latest trends you need to focus on and leave with a customized action plan tailored to help you stay ahead of the competition.

Gate Automation Designer School (contd.)

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 12:00pm
Joe LePier – DoorKing
  • Anyone who designs automated vehicular gates is encouraged to attend this two-day school.  This program is a combination of lecture, presentations and hands on gate system layout activities covering the following concepts and topics:
  •  
    • UL 325 for automated gate systems
    • ASTM F2200 and an Introduction to M.U.T.C.D. – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
    • Types of Gates
    • Types of Gate Operators
    • Introduction to Electrical Wiring
    • Access Control Devices
    • Vehicular Detection Systems
    • Power Failure Options
    • High Security Applications
    • Site Considerations

This 1.5-day course can also serve as an introduction to the gate automation industry. Individuals and companies considering expanding their business into gate automation can get a thorough overview of both system design and standards from this class. There is a certification exam offered after the classroom instruction. Successful certification will show that you and your company are professionals in our industry, however, participation in the certification exam is not required.

*The Gate Automation Designer School is not included in the Full Package, but can be added unto your FENCETECH registration. 

AFA's Young Fence Professionals Panel Discussion

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Robert Whittaker, Magnolia Fence & Patio

Breaking Down Barriers: Overcoming Obstacles in the Fencing Business

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Saket Thukral - LiftMaster

In this session, we will be addressing pain points and emerging trends in the fencing industry discussed through the lens of the installer and dealer.

DASMA Mock Trial 2025

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Richard Sedivy - DoorKing, Dave Monsour - DASMA, Christina Pannos - Pannos Law, Tim Catello - Miller Edge, Tom Desilvia - Chamberlain, Zach Eichenberger - Controlled Products

Join an all-star cast of DASMA members in this live drama that mimics a real courtroom scene. Legal liability for personal injury is a serious matter faced by manufacturers, dealers, and installers. This thought-provoking dramatization will familiarize attendees with the issues involved and the strategies employed by lawyers on both sides of a typical injury case.

Everything You Need to Know About Loops

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Brian Dickson - BD Loops

Join us for an informative education seminar where you'll learn everything you need to know about loops and loop systems. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a loop expert! Brian Dickson of BD Loops will cover loop basics, best installation practices, troubleshooting, and more. Whether you're new to the field or looking to refine your skills, this seminar is designed to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to excel in loop technology.

Getting Your Business Sale-Ready: Whether You Plan to Sell it or Not

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Andrew Martin - Atlas Financial

Getting your business sale-ready makes it less dependent on the business owner, makes it more enjoyable to own, more profitable, and more valuable. The steps to get a business sale-ready will have the business running more effectively and provide the business owner with the freedom most business owners want. These tools are suited for any business owner whether you've considered selling the
business or not.

Quest To Be Your Best

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Tony Thornton - Fence Consulting Group

The Quest to be Your Best presentation outlines how to stay motivated, set goals and impact others through our interactions and be a great leader. Make impactful decisions to live an awesome life that has a positive influence on others.

Elements to Leading Dynamically

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Chris Rice - Ameristar Perimeter Security

This leadership session is perfect for new leaders and leaders hoping to take their organization to the next level. Through learning to identify their own leadership habits and identifying the status of their team members, leaders can learn to provide appropriate support to them to drive world class talent and improve the customer experience!

Net Promoter Score Fence Pulse and the Customer Experience: What's in It for Me?

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Michael Reed - American Fence Association, Bobby Batchlor - Seegars Fence, Lori Smith - Clarksville Fence, Doug Rende - Shapes Unlimited

Join a panel of industry leaders as they share their stories on improving the customer experience.  We'll discuss how to use the Net Promoter Score framework to improve business operations, engage leaders in creating a standard of continuous improvement, and create a culture of winning through customer engagement. Panelists will include real world experiences from using the new Fence Pulse platform to grow their businesses. 

 

By focusing on the customer experience, leaders can expect:

  • Increased customer referrals: Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your business, driving growth.
  • Data-driven decisions: Use customer feedback to refine your business strategies, improving satisfaction and retention rates.
  • Competitive insights: Compare your NPS with others to better understand your position in the market.
  • Enhanced reputation: Building loyalty among customers leads to stronger word-of-mouth recommendations.

NPS and Fence Pulse empowers companies to foster stronger customer relationships and stand out in a competitive market.

No Stain, No Gain

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Laurel McEuen & Roy Branch - Wood Defender, Robert Whittaker - Magnolia Fence

Join the Wood Defender team as we explore how fence staining can significantly enhance the profitability and value of your existing fence business model. With insights and expertise gained from years in the industry, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the product and how to stand up a stain business. We will be accompanied by a special guest, Robert Whittaker of Magnola Fence & Patio, who will offer a real-world case study outlining how stain equates gain.

Tackling HR - Like a PRO!

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Shane Catton - Good Shepherd Fencing Company

Tackling HR - Like a PRO! As you grow and develop yourself and company - you need these 3 things: development of a benefits plan, taking care of your team and yourself, and learning about policies, procedures, and your people!

The Digital Success Blueprint

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Sam Natello - DotComGlobal Media

Learn the proven strategies and tactics being used by top fence companies online - to rank better on Google, to driving more traffic, and to converting more traffic into paid customers. We pull back the curtain to show behind-the-scenes secrets you can utilize yourself. This presentation packs detailed examples in a highly entertaining way which is appropriate for beginners and experts alike.

AFA's Veterans in Fence Panel Discussion, Professional Development & Metal Health Awareness

Tuesday, February 25
1:15pm - 2:45pm
Brian Boutte - Controlled Products Systems Group, Shawn Holland - Seegars Fence, Micheal Reed - American Fence Association

Learn how the AFA is working to give Veterans in our industry a chance to meet and give back as well as resources for member companies to hire these well trained, teachable, and highly motivated individuals when they depart active duty. We will also talk about resources and training that will help our members recognize and deal with employees in mental health crisis.

Efficiencies = Profitability

Tuesday, February 25
1:15pm - 2:45pm
Tony Thornton - Fence Consulting Group

The Efficiencies = Profitability session will provide techniques to enhance your fence company operation from Call to Collection. Every step is an important piece of the process that will build a strong company workflow and help the operation be a money making machine!

Increasing Sales Conversions Online

Tuesday, February 25
1:15pm - 2:45pm
Sam Natello - DotCom Global Media

Increasing sales is a priority for most fence companies. In this class, we will identify 5 key improvements that most fence companies can make online that will easily “move the needle”. These are all proven strategies that top performing fence companies are using right now.

Maximize Profit and Close More Deals With These Top 10 Fencing Estimate/Proposal Hacks!

Tuesday, February 25
1:15pm - 2:45pm
Chad Zamier - ArcSite

Unlock the secrets to boosting your fencing business profits and closing more deals! Join us for a dynamic session where we reveal the top 10 hacks for crafting winning estimates and proposals. Discover actionable strategies, insider tips, and practical tools to streamline your process, impress clients, and maximize your bottom line. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your estimating game and drive your business growth!

The Positives and Negatives of Working with your Spouse and/or Family

Tuesday, February 25
1:15pm - 2:45pm
Ken & Heather Throckmorton - Forever Fence & Rail, Cannon & Kristen Johnson - Jackson Fence, Mark & Tonya Olson - SWI

Do You and Your Spouse Work Together? Discover insights from industry power couples on the pros and cons of working alongside your partner. Explore strategies for balancing work and personal life, and learn how to set boundaries to keep the two worlds separate. Gain valuable lessons from the struggles and triumphs these couples have experienced on their journey to success.

Emergency Access, What I Need to Know

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
McKay Lundgren - SOS Siren Operated Sensors

The Emergency Access presentation will focus on the need for emergency access, working with the local municipality on what is required, exploring what are the different emergency access systems available and the basics of how each of them work.

How To Fence In Your Competition: Trademarks To Make Your Business Stand Out!

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Camille Wilson - Wilson Dutra

Understand Trademark Basics: Learn what trademarks are and how they can be used to enhance your brand's visibility and protect it from competitors. Master Trademark Registration: Get practical guidance on the steps involved in registering your trademarks to ensure legal protection. Implement Brand Consistency: Discover strategies for maintaining brand consistency across various platforms to strengthen your market presence.

How to Run a Fence Rental Division

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Stephen Greer - SONCO Worldwide

Unlock strategies to expand your rental business by adding temporary fences to your current offerings. This session covers practical steps for integrating this profitable new product, from market demand insights and operational considerations to customer acquisition and growth potential. Attendees will gain actionable knowledge on maximizing resources and efficiently entering the temporary fencing market, transforming their rental division to meet new customer needs and drive further growth.

Save Time, Sell More: Becoming The Most Convenient Residential Company To Buy From

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ben Barrick - Hearth

Homeowners demand a convenient buying experience. And it is the role of a business to make buying from your company as easy as possible. There are a few simple steps companies can take today to begin saving dozens of hours each week, and start selling more often. These include: offering all payment options, getting consistent 5-star reviews and opening a referral channel for new business that buys 3X more often than any other form of marketing.

The FENCE MATRIX

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Shawn King - Mr. Fence Inc. 

We will spend every minute of the hour together showing you our version of The FENCE MATRIX. We will demonstrate the complexity of how COGs, Total Revenue, Resources, Overhead, Gross Margins, Lead count, conversion, Capture Ratios, Magic Number, Net profits, and Trash Cash all react to each other. The ripple effect from a change to any one of those measurables can influence any one if not multiple of the others. Creating an ITTT type of scenario.  

AFA's Hispanic Fence Professionals Panel Discussion

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Jim Hawarden - AFA, Jesus Nieto - Aruba Iron Works, Enrique Caltenco - Master Halco, Luis Gutierrez - All-O-Matic, Tony Perez - Sagamore Fence & Deck, Hugo Valdez - Taylor Fence, Colorado

Elevating Careers in the Fence Industry – The Impact of AFA Membership for Hispanic Professionals

Discover how membership in the American Fence Association (AFA) is transforming careers and empowering Hispanic professionals in the fencing industry. Join our panel of accomplished industry leaders who will share their personal journeys of growth through industry certifications, gaining industry knowledge, and growing their peer networks. This engaging session will highlight how AFA provides Spanish-speaking professionals with invaluable resources to advance their careers and build strong industry connections.

From Pickets to Praise: How Software Secrets Can Turn Your Business Into A 5-Star Experience

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Adam Keys - Job Nimbus LLC

Do you feel like you're constantly battling a homeowner's preconceived notions about contractors? Tired of the stories of shoddy work, missed deadlines, and hidden costs? This presentation will show you how to shatter those stereotypes and build trust with your clients, turning them into loyal advocates for your business. Here's the secret weapon: applying lessons learned from software product management to your contracting approach.

Gate Hardware: Designing for Function, Safety, and Code Compliance

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Mark Schacherer - D&D Technologies USA, Inc.

Considering gate hardware early in the design process enhances the aesthetics and functionality of perimeter security. Gate hardware balances durability, security, and ease-of-use without detracting from the design. This course examines latches, plain pivot and self-closing hinges, closers and accessories for swing gates, and wheels for sliding gates; it also offers guidance on specification and installation.
 

Managing Accounts Receivable & Financial Statement Production

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Ian Wagner - TRUE Contractor Software

Inform session-goers on correct billing practices for residential and commercial projects while also discussing revenue recognition models, financial statement compilation, and how to use software to conduct these activities. This session would be applicable to subcontractors, not the general contractor.

Not-So-Everyday AI: 7 Practical AI Tools Every Fence Professional Should Know

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Daniel Streeter - Mission-Fuel

This session will introduce seven practical AI tools tailored for the fence industry, offering solutions to streamline operations and enhance marketing efforts. Attendees will learn how to use AI for tasks such as video creation, presentations, and chatbot-driven customer support. Led by AI expert Dan Streeter, this interactive session focuses on boosting productivity, saving time, and improving customer engagement through AI-powered tools specifically designed for fence professionals.

Wednesday, February 26

Don't Sit on The Fence: Protect Your Innovations Now!

Wednesday, February 26
8:00am - 9:00am
Camille Wilson - Wilson Dutra

This seminar will point out common mistakes businesses make when protecting their intellectual property and how to avoid them. Learn about frequent errors in patent applications, trademark registrations, and IP enforcement. Get practical tips and best practices to make sure your IP protection efforts work well and efficiently. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to protect their innovations and brand.

Emerging Technology in Access Controls

Wednesday, February 26
8:00am - 9:00am
Tim Nordstrom & Daniel Forte - Controlled Products

Learn the different access control systems, including Smart Video Intercoms, telephone entry and access control systems. Learn the newest and various methods of connectivity.

Grounding and Bonding Of Fences: Codes, Standards, Applications, Best Practices, And Connectors

Wednesday, February 26
8:00am - 9:00am
Sarah Parsons - Burndy

Discover the critical aspects of grounding and bonding metallic fences in our comprehensive presentation. We'll delve into relevant codes and standards, explore practical applications, and share industry best practices. Learn about the essential connectors and techniques to ensure safety and compliance. Whether you're an installer, inspector, or engineer, this presentation will equip you with the knowledge to enhance the integrity and functionality of metallic fence installations. Join us to elevate your expertise!

How to Get Your Personal Financial House in Order

Wednesday, February 26
8:00am - 9:00am
Andrew Martin - Atlas Financial

Many business owners overlook their personal financial foundation because the business demands so much of their time and energy. It is so important to ensure you have a solid foundation, so your personal goals align with your business goals. Simple, small tweaks in your overall financial plan can make an enormous difference.

Navigating Public Works And Competitive Bidding: Mastering Prevailing Wage Regulations

Wednesday, February 26
8:00am - 9:00am
Eric Spitale - Spitale Construction Resources Inc.

This presentation provides a contemporary analysis of the competitive bidding process for public works projects, focusing on prevailing wage regulations across federal, state, and municipal levels. Attendees will learn practical strategies to ensure compliance and profitability, applicable to businesses of all sizes. By demystifying the complexities of prevailing wage laws, this session empowers contractors and project managers to enhance their competitive edge in the public works sector.

Burn the Boats! Go All in With All That You Do.

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Robert Whittaker - Magnolia Fence & Patio

You will leave fired up to BURN THE BOATS in all that we do. We all fight with ourselves in if we made the right decision, regrets & the what if. This presentation will build the confidence you need, give you the tools to execute and have you eating the enemies food for dinner. We are going to go on a journey of trusting yourself and others to go all in.

Contracts and Warranties

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Shane Catton - Good Shepherd Fencing Company

Wanting to keep you and your team safe? What to choose the best partners to work with? Does your contract cover all of these areas? Stop in and lets talk about best contract practices for you and your business!

From Fences to Futures: Environmental Responsibility in the Fence Industry

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Linda Sheehan - Trident Enterprises, Miles Lepry - Trex Fencing

This presentation will delve into the transformative potential of Trident Enterprise’s partnership with CleanHub and the steps Trident Enterprises/Trident Fence is taking to make a meaningful environmental impact. We will outline actionable strategies for fence companies globally to adopt similar initiatives, demonstrating how collective efforts can drive significant change in environmental sustainability within the industry.

How to Increase Profitability on Commercial, Residential, and High-Security Projects in 2025

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Mark Levin - CLFMI, Bill Peterson - Richards Fence, Steve Peters - Southern Wire, Brian McMillan - Liberty Wire Johnston

This panel of top chain link industry subject matter experts and sales professionals (who have, collectively, 

more than a century of industry experience, presentation skills, and training expertise) will give attendees the ability to:

 

    - find the resources available to increase their knowledge of chain link capabilities and standards of use

    - solve customer problems and grow sales by showing the value of using chain link products in their safest and most effective manner

    - enhance their company's brand - and profitability - through the effective marketing of their expertise in perimeter security solutions

Kahoot! Gate Systems Installer Quiz Show

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Tom DeSilvia - Chamberlain, Rick Sedivy - DoorKing, Dave Monsour - DASMA, Gary Vonnahme - Ameristar Perimeter Security

Test your knowledge as an automated gate systems installer and compete for the $150 grand prize in this “Kahoot! Quiz Show” put on by the Automated Vehicular Gate Systems Coalition team. This Game Show format tests not only your accuracy but also your quickness in getting the correct answers. All you need to bring is a phone (or other internet-connected device) and your sharpened wits!

The Current State Of AI In Fence

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Justin Judy - ArcSite

Discover how AI can revolutionize your fencing business. This presentation will cover AI-driven tools and techniques for optimizing operations, improving customer service, and enhancing marketing strategies. Learn how to leverage AI for inventory management, scheduling, and data analysis to drive growth and efficiency. Join us to explore practical applications and real-world examples of AI in action, transforming your fencing business into a modern, tech-savvy enterprise.

Maximizing Your AFA Member Benefits

Wednesday, February 26
5:00pm - 6:00pm
Causby Challacombe - CAE, Director of Membership, AFA & Mark Schiavone - Member Savings Program

Discover how to unlock the full potential of your membership. This session is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the exclusive benefits, resources, and opportunities available to members. Whether you're new, long-time member or looking to join AFA, you'll gain insights into member discounts, tools and services tailored to enhance your experience and ensure you’re getting the most value from your membership. Bring your questions and get ready to make the most of what AFA membership has to offer! 

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

FENCETECH 2024

Early Bird Rates: Through December 17, 2024
Standard Rates: December 18, 2024 - February 11, 2025
Onsite Rates: February 12, 2025 - February 28, 2025

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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