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

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

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!

I'm Burned Out.. Helpppp!

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.

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.

The Fence Contractor's Guide to Social Media Success: More Leads, More Profit

Tuesday, February 25
8:00am - 9:00am
Alex Danner, Fence & Deck Marketers

This presentation will show you how to create a winning social media strategy for your fencing business. We show you how to get consistency with your posting, choose topics quickly, create amazing videos, and syndicate your content on multiple channels to amplify your reach. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear strategy for how to consistently post to your social media channels, gain authority, and bring in more high quality leads.

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

DASMA Mock Trial 2025

Tuesday, February 25
9:15am - 10:45am
Dave Monsour, Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association

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.

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!

How To Use NPS To Grow Your Business

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Michael Reed, American Fence Association

No Stain, No Gain

Tuesday, February 25
11:00am - 12:00pm
Laurel McEuen, Standard Paints, Inc., Wood Defender, Roy Branch, Director of Wholesale Distribution, Wood Defender & Robert Whittaker, Owner, Magnolia Fene

Wood Defender team explores 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 and case study.

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

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, DotComGlobal 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

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 Add Temporary Fences to your Rental Business.

Tuesday, February 25
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Steven 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.

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.

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.

Sections, Screw Feet.

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

Stop leaving nearly all of your net profits behind with your customers. Let's discuss how you could possible close the gap of nearly 10% with a competitor's lower price without losing any profits. As a bonus we will discuss how you can stop offering discounts and increase revenue. 

AFA's Hispanic Fence Professionals Panel Discussion

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm

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.

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.

Ultimate Website Workshop: Turn Your Fence Website into A Lead-Generating Machine

Tuesday, February 25
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Alex Danner, Fence & Deck Marketers

Does your website struggle to consistently get leads? If so, there’s a good chance it’s not setup properly for conversions. In this presentation, we show you all of the best practices for optimizing your website to convert more people into customers and make more money. Whether you need to add stronger Call To Actions, display your reviews more prominently, or make the phone number in the header bigger, we will go through it all!

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

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

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

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!

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.

From Fences to Futures: Environmental Responsibility in the Fence Industry

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am

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.

Go for the Green: Sustainability Sells Big Time in the 2025 Fence Market

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Mark Levin, CLFMI

Kahoot! Gate Systems Installer Quiz Show

Wednesday, February 26
9:15am - 10:45am
Dave Monsour, Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association

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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