SCORE


Unparalleled Protection
for Your Business


Jobsite Bracing and Safety


SBC Magazine




BCMC Show

Chapter Spotlight from SBC Magazine

Making a Difference – The Iowa Chapter’s Legislative Breakfast

Pictured left to right: Tom Lambertz, Ray Noonan, Rick Parrino, Mike Farr, Dave Mitchell, Todd Gilligan, Al Esch, Matt Miller

In February, component manufacturers from across the state of Iowa converged in Des Moines to participate in the Iowa Truss Manufacturer Association's (ITMA) Annual Legislative Breakfast at the Iowa Capitol building. "Visiting our lawmakers and talking to them about our businesses and key issues is one of the most important things we do as a chapter," said Rick Parrino of Plum Building Systems in West Des Moines.

This year, chapter members joined with several lumber dealers and home builders from the Iowa Lumber and Home Builder Associations to present a significant and united front on several key issues. "Unfortunately, the current leadership of the Iowa Legislature is determined to eliminate our state's Right to Work status," explained Ray Noonan, Jr. of Cascade Mfg Co in Cascade. Just ten days prior to the ITMA breakfast, major legislation that would weaken existing Right to Work statutes was narrowly defeated by two votes in the Senate. Due to the close vote, it is likely a similar bill will come up for a vote again soon. Noonan added, "That's why we need to be here to let lawmakers know how damaging this legislation would be to manufacturers like us."

Iowa Chapter members also spoke with their lawmakers about their concerns with other current issues under debate: prevailing wage legislation that could significantly increase the cost of housing construction, an employee verification measure that would place an unfair burden on employers, and several bills aimed at increasing property taxes or adding impact fees that would make owning a home more difficult for the average Iowan. "Education is the key," said Al Esch of Lumber Specialties in Dyersville. "If these lawmakers don't get our perspective, they may vote for something without knowing there is a significant downside to that idea."

Most importantly, ITMA members are quick to point out that an event such as the Legislative Breakfast is incredibly easy and affordable for any chapter to arrange. Begun a few years ago, it has become a great opportunity for chapter members to meet with their legislators in a forum that provides good communication on real issues.

If your chapter would like to start a tradition like the Iowa Legislative Breakfast, just let us know. Developing legislative relationships can produce lasting, positive results for your chapter. SBCA staff can help you get started, and ITMA would be happy to help you make a difference in your state, too.

Learning the Standard in the Capital Area

At the January meeting of the Structural Building Components Association of the Capital Area, a spirited panel explored the new ANSI/TPI 1-2007 in a multi-faceted presentation. Tim Ott, P.E. led the discussion with a recap of changes in the Quality Control program. Working for Ed Callahan as Vice-President of Callahan & Associates in the Capital Area, Tim has inspected many of the plants of chapter members, and participated in the development of the new Standard. Tim focused on the ongoing inspection requirement and shed light on often-misunderstood QC details, such as “defect circles.” Improvements in the joint overlays should expedite the inspection process while improving the results.

Jay Jones, P.E., Technical Director of the Truss Plate Institute, continued with an overview of TPI and made available copies of the Standard at a special rate. David Horne, Director of Engineering Services, demonstrated how the new Standard enables better management of risks, especially on long span trusses. By describing the extensive precautions taken by his company, Universal Forest Products, David underscored the importance of Chapters 2 and 3 of the TPI Standard. Finally, Bob Dayhoff, Director of Technical Operations, reinforced the strong message of prevention with practices from his employer, Shelter Systems Limited.

The Capital Area Chapter members are much better prepared thanks to the depth of expertise brought to the ANSI/TPI 1-2007 discussion from around our Nation’s Capital.

Texas & the Membership Drive

Dermer accepts #1 Recruiter plaque from 2009 SBCA President Ben Hershey at the Top Chord Club dinner in Denver.

TMAT has captured the #1 Chapter title in back-to-back wins for the last five years straight, and since the start of the competition it has won six times!

TMAT members also swept all three categories for 2008:

• The #1 Component Manufacturer Recruiter was Jack Dermer of American Truss Systems, Inc., in Houston, TX. This was Jack’s second time as #1, having won the title in 2002.
• The #1 Supplier Recruiter was Norm McKenna of MiTek Industries, Inc. Norm also captured that slot in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

What’s the secret to TMAT’s success? Old-fashioned persistence! And even though Norm McKenna has won more times than anyone else, he is not alone in his determination to keep Texas on top. In addition to Jack’s winning work in 2002 and 2008:

• The 2006 #1 Component Manufacturer Membership Recruiter was Gary L. Weaver of Timber Tech Texas, Inc., Cibolo, TX.
• The 2007 #1 Component Manufacturer Membership Recruiter was Ben Doyle of Textruss Component Building, Inc., Austin, TX.
• The 2004 #1 Component Manufacturer Membership Recruiter was Frank B. Klinger of Mid-Valley Truss & Door Co., Harlingen, TX.

Is there any hope for the other chapters? Of course! Previous #1 Chapter winners are Ohio and South Florida. Narrowly missing out on the title have been Arizona, California and Canada. Keep in mind—we’ve got some additional prizes in store for our 10th anniversary drive this year, so our hope is that this will help inspire everyone to renewed competition.

But for right now, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the good work that Texas has done and say, “Congratulations, TMAT!”

Bracing Education from WTCA’s Capital Area Chapter

On behalf of everyone here in the James City County Code Compliance office, I would like to thank WTCA’s Capital Area Chapter team for their help and generosity in conducting a workshop for our inspectors. Trish Kutz of WTCA was very accommodating when I called to get information and materials regarding wood truss issues. She made the necessary calls to put this together. Robert Dayhoff with Shelter Systems Limited conducted the workshop at our office and provided a very helpful presentation custom tailored to our needs. This kind of service is greatly appreciated by everyone in our industry. We hope to get Robert back for another workshop in the near future. Thanks to everyone involved for your support and generosity.

The Code Compliance Officials of James City County, VA following the TTW presented by the Capital Area Chapter.

Educating Designers with the Michigan Chapter

Marketing trusses directly to your potential buyers is one way to increase the acceptance and use of structural building components. But there is another way to increase market share—reaching out to building designers to demonstrate the benefits and ease of using components. So, how can your chapter reach out to designers? Why not try the Michigan example!

The Michigan Chapter is providing its members with customized binders of WTCA publications that have been specifically selected for the building design community. Members are able to hand-deliver or ship the binders to the architects, structural engineers and residential designers that they contact. The binders contain copies of the JOBSITE PACKAGE, BCSI, Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Handbook, the design responsibilities document, and of course a list of chapter members. A cover letter explains that assistance is only a phone call away, so building designers are encouraged to contact chapter members for more information. The best part is that chapter members only have to pay the cost of shipping the binders—the chapter is providing the binders for free to all members.

This approach is excellent for any chapter that would like to add a personal touch to their marketing, provide a substantial package of structural building component-oriented publications, and reach out to all building designers. After all, the more information that architects, engineers, residential designers and specifiers receive on our industry’s products, the more they will be inclined to use structural building components to create economical framing solutions for their customers. It’s a win-win!

Put on Your Chapter Hat at BCMC

Do you need one more reason to attend BCMC this year? Well, here are three reasons to put on your chapter hat at BCMC in October.

• Come Meet the Colorado Chapter: Members of our Colorado Chapter, CTMA, are proud to be hosting BCMC on their home turf of Denver this year and they’ll be meeting and greeting attendees at the WTCA booth on the show floor. Come swap chapter stories with your colleagues from the mountain time zone.
• Free Meeting Space for Chapter Meetings: Every year, we’re pleased to be able to offer free meeting space for chapters at BCMC, and we can have your lunch catered in, too. The Iowa Chapter always holds its fall meeting at the show—why not try one for your chapter?
• The BCMC Chapter Contest: The chapter with the most attendees at the show wins bragging rights as this year’s contest winner. All attendees from the winning chapter receive a commemorative pin. The Indiana Chapter won the first contest in 2007, but it’s still anyone’s game to win in 2008!

We don’t really have to tell you ALL of the great reasons to attend BCMC this year, do we? We’ll run out of space! Remember BCMC is all about planning, evaluating and adjusting your business lifeline, and in many ways your chapter is, too.

Building Relationships with WTCA–NY

In December’s SBC, we reported on the success our New York Chapter was having building relationships with the New York State Building Officials Conference (NYSBOC). Now we are pleased to report that those relationships are continuing to thrive!

Following up on its successful truss plant tours and demonstrations for the NYSBOC–Capital District and NYSBOC–Rockland County groups in 2006 and 2007, now our chapter can add another very well received tour for Rockland County in January and a great educational presentation for the Westchester Fire Marshals & Inspectors Association in April.

Now that the word is out—WTCA–New York provides excellent plant tours and seminars—the requests keep coming in. More plant tours are in the works, including one for NYSBOC–Tri County, and the chapter is eager to pursue additional groups as its members make contact with them. There is no end in sight for building relationships and increasing understanding of structural building components in the state. Great work, New York!

Chapter Meetings Go Online with SBC Connection

In 2008, a new tool was placed in motion that has the potential to help us hold a wide variety of meetings with members while having the convenience of not traveling anywhere to participate, which is particularly great for chapter meetings where the distance can be far just to attend a two-hour meeting. Called SBC Connection, this approach to meetings allows members and chapters to conduct meetings using internet technology that combines a teleconference with the ability to present and work with meeting materials via the internet. All attendees call into the meeting on a toll free phone number while they simultaneously log into an online meeting website. Everyone is easily able to review and discuss posted meeting materials from the convenience of their own home or office.

The California Chapter was the first to try out this new meeting technology at its March meeting. By April, the Alabama, Michigan, Kentucky and Mid South Chapters were all using SBC Connection—half held the online meeting in conjunction with an in-person meeting with dinner, while half used only the online meeting tool. For other chapters thinking about this new approach to chapter meetings, consider the feedback from the California Chapter meeting:

“I was quite pleased with the meeting turnout and participation... participants are more comfortable in expressing their opinions [and] if nothing else, the meetings are far less expensive to put on and consume far less time away from the office.”
—Gary Sartor, California Chapter President, Stone Truss Company, Inc., Oceanside CA

“I was able to sit in my office chair rather than a stiff chair in a conference room [and] I see the potential to get other members from my location involved just by inviting them into the meeting at the time when they are needed. I also have access to my office and other files/resources that can be used to support a current meeting discussion. Overall I think this was a great idea.”
—Paul Semchuk, BMC West, Modesto, CA

“I believe this is an excellent format for time and money savings.”
—Karen Wilson, Universal Truss, Inc., Fontana, CA

“Great idea. This makes it much easier to participate.”
—Michael Fisher, Western Wood Fabricators, Inc., Elverta, CA

“Today was the first meeting I’ve attended. I was very impressed with the online meeting and how well it went. This is a good idea and I look forward to the next one.”
—Steve Fuhrman, Cordstrap USA Inc.

The message is clear: SBC Connection allows members to reap the benefits of attending a meeting without the hassle and related time and travel costs, while also reaching out to members who have never been able to attend meetings in the past. For your next meeting, try SBC Connection.

The Iowa Chapter’s Carbeck Challenge

Since 2002, the Iowa Chapter has challenged all WTCA Chapters to match its annual contribution to the Carbeck Structural Components Institute and many chapters have done just that, including Arizona, Illinois, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Northwest, Southern Nevada, South Florida and Texas. The initial contributions started at $1,000, but in 2006, Iowa upped the ante to $1,500, Northwest countered with $2,000, and Southern Nevada raised the bar with a $5,000 contribution.

Even with the downturn this year, Iowa is committed to continuing its annual Carbeck contribution and urges all chapters to do the same. For 2008, Iowa has pledged $2,000.

Now more than ever, Carbeck is gaining recognition in the fire service community for its exceptional educational material. Several requests come in each month via the Carbeck website (www.carbeck.org) for copies of the “The Fire Performance of Wood Trusses” CD. Interest in truss plant tours is gaining momentum too, with several scheduled each month. Some of these tours are combined with actual fire demonstrations, too.

Furthermore, Carbeck’s educational material continues to expand. Soon there will be another educational presentation which you may review and forward, based on (and made possible by) the Iowa Chapter’s Live Fire Demonstration – Test Burn and Truss Plant Tour, held in conjunction with WTCA and the Fire Service Training Bureau in Ames and Story City, IA last August. There were over 100 attendees including the engineering research group at Harvey Mudd College (in Claremont, CA). The data it obtained from instrumenting the floor assembly demonstrations will used in a new Truss Technology Workshop (TTW) presentation as well as several technical articles. The Iowa Chapter generously sponsored this event, too!

For chapters that have contributed in the past, we don’t need to tell you about the value of Carbeck. To chapters that have not yet invested in Carbeck, please discuss an annual contribution at your next chapter meeting. The value of providing accurate information on the performance of our products to fire professionals across the country cannot be overstated. More information leads to better understanding, and it can only help protect and grow the market for structural building components.

Reaching Out to Building Designers with the Mid South Chapter

In 2007, the Mid South Chapter members knew that they wanted to provide engineers with copies of Building Component Safety Information: Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing, Restraining and Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses (BCSI). Finding a list of 3,000 engineers registered in the State of Mississippi alone, however, they also knew they would need a better marketing approach than simply mailing a copy to each individual on the list. Instead, the chapter decided to team up with WTCA staff to create a brochure that will accomplish many tasks.

The Mid South brochure is more than simply an ad for BCSI. With an introductory letter from the chapter and a complete chapter membership listing, it includes information on all of the technical resources available from WTCA, encourages engineers to take advantage of online Truss Technology Workshops (TTW) for continuing education, lets them request truss plant tours or live TTWs, enables them to sign up for an SBC subscription, and offers them a free copy of BCSI if they respond via mail, email, fax or an online form.

By reaching out to building designers, the chapter hopes to convey the benefits and ease of using components. After this list of engineers in Mississippi, Mid South will move on to additional engineers registered in Louisiana, as well as architects and specifiers in these states. The concept is that the more information that building designers receive on our industry’s products, the more they will understand and use structural building components.

In addition, the Mid South Chapter brochure is now an excellent template for other chapters to customize. The content is easy to modify, the colors can be swapped out to build your chapter’s brand in the marketplace, and you may reach out by offering free publications or simply promote the information available for free on the WTCA website. If your chapter would like to customize a brochure for industry professionals in your marketplace, simply contact Anna (608/345-4983 or chapters@sbcindustry.com) to discuss the options and devise an approach that best suits your chapter.

The Mid Atlantic Chapter Gets Serious About Education

The Mid Atlantic Wood Truss Council (MAWTC) is a chapter that is serious about education and they have the results to prove it! Focusing on education this year, chapter members spent quite a bit of time scheduling, planning, manning booths and organizing seminars and plant tours in their area. In particular, the chapter sponsored three notable events this fall.

First up was the 38th Annual Pennsylvania Building Officials Conference (PennBOC) in Harrisburg, PA. In addition to a seminar taught by Ken Watters, P.E. of KW Engineering, the chapter manned a booth where members handed out flyers on Carbeck, TTWs, Truss Plant Tours, SBC and chapter rosters. This is the second year in a row that MAWTC has sponsored a seminar with PennBOC and it certainly won’t be the last—PennBOC has already asked them to return next year! For 2008, the chapter plans to host a truss plant tour for the group.

Following PennBOC, the chapter provided two seminars contracted through Rutgers University in New Jersey on “Wood Trusses and Fire Performance” for building and fire officials. On the program evaluations: 100 percent said the presentation was “Excellent” or “Very Good” overall, and 100 percent said the presentation was “Excellent” or “Very Good” at meeting their personal expectations. R. Wojcik from Fire Prevention in Atlantic City wrote: “Ken is a top notch instructor. His easy soft spoken style was a refreshing change from other instructors.” The chapter also provided an impressive handout package for each attendee that included the BCSI booklet and several other publications.

Great job to Ken Watters for teaching such worthwhile sessions—and great job to MAWTC for jumping in and educating the building officials and fire officials in their area. This chapter is serious about education—100% of the time!

WTCA – New York: Building Relationships & Investing in Education

Last October, the New York Chapter accepted an invitation to host a truss plant tour and live fire demonstration for the New York State Building Officials Conference (NYSBOC) – Capital District event. The video footage captured from the live test was used to update the popular Carbeck CD on fire performance. The modules are now available on the Carbeck website at www.carbeck.org/edprog.

But something even greater came out of this event—a lasting relationship between WTCA–NY and NYSBOC.

This October, the New York Chapter was invited back to deliver educational presentations at the NYSBOC – Capital District event and the NYSBOC – Rockland County event a few days later. With Truss Technology Workshops (TTW) delivered by WTCA staff, the conferences provided six hours of continuing education credits to over 400 building and fire officials, architects and engineers. Vincent Fiorentino, President of the NYSBOC – Rockland Chapter, passed along this compliment: “Just wanted to let you know that the presentation was excellent and [WTCA staff] did a great job getting out a lot of information in a relatively short period of time. Also the handbook [BCSI] is a great tool to bring back to the office.”

Plus, the requests to provide more information and education in the marketplace continue to come in to the chapter. Several NYSBOC members have requested plant tours, which are being arranged with the WTCA–NY members. In addition, the Westchester Fire Marshals & Inspectors Association would like a full day of education for its group in the spring. There’s even an event for architects and engineers in the works for January.

Once word gets out that a chapter is able to provide education and do it well, the opportunities are tremendous. The relationships being developed will go a long way toward increasing understanding of components. Especially in a state like New York that legislated the use of labels on new commercial buildings using truss construction, being able to talk face-to-face with members of the fire service, building officials and others breaks down the barriers and misconceptions. One thing has become certain, every single plant tour can make a significant positive difference for our industry.

The tour went very well and the results far exceeded my expectations. Many members of the group asked if we would be willing to come to the local fire departments with the same information as well as deliver a presentation for training officers and inspectors at the State Fire Academy. The contacts we have made from this one tour will be invaluable.

Our chapter and my company have tried for years to start building a relationship with the fire service and I feel we have done just that. Between our persistence at the local level and the resources available through WTCA and Carbeck, we are able to make a difference. Thank you to everyone who helped with this event and I look forward to future presentations.

Reaching the Fire Service Through Truss Plant Tours

On Tuesday, September 18, LaValley Building Supply, Inc opened its doors and welcomed members of the New Hampshire State Fire Academy as well as two local fire officials. We started with a presentation on the history of trusses and some basic truss and plate information, plus information on the ASTM E119 fire test. The next stop was the design office to show where the process starts, then on to the plant. We were also pleased to present a live fire demonstration made possible by the Carbeck Structural Components Institute—the Fire Barrel Demonstration of Metal Connector Plates. With the help of our chapter, the WTCA–Northeast, we were able to provide lunch for everyone; and, with the assistance of WTCA and WTCA–Northeast, we were able to provide each person with a packet stuffed full of information about trusses.

The tour went very well and the results far exceeded my expectations. Many members of the group asked if we would be willing to come to the local fire departments with the same information as well as deliver a presentation for training officers and inspectors at the State Fire Academy. The contacts we have made from this one tour will be invaluable.

Our chapter and my company have tried for years to start building a relationship with the fire service and I feel we have done just that. Between our persistence at the local level and the resources available through WTCA and Carbeck, we are able to make a difference. Thank you to everyone who helped with this event and I look forward to future presentations.

WTCA Chapters Go International

Starting in August, you’ll see a big change in the WTCA Chapters logo—we’ve added a country! Yes, the WTCA Chapters have gone international and they now include Canada.

This year, the WTCA Board of Directors has approved three new chapters—Rio Grande, Arkansas and Canada. This takes the total number of chapters to 35, representing 39 U.S. states and Canada.

The addition of the Canada Chapter continues WTCA’s natural evolution of supporting structural building component manufacturers. Regardless of location, component manufacturers face the same challenges! WTCA’s goal is for all component manufacturers to benefit from the industry advancements our collective work creates. By working together, we leverage all perspectives and the natural synergy that we have. From there, everyone in our industry reaps the rewards.

Update on the New Chapter in New Mexico - May 2007

In the November 2006 issue, we announced the formation of the Rio Grande Component Manufacturers Association. A few months and a few ballots later, we are pleased to announce the group is still on track to become the 33rd chapter, but its name will be the Component Manufacturers Association of the Rio Grande.

What's in a name? As anyone forming a chapter may have discovered, a little change in a name can make a big difference. The change here began with a filing issue in the State of Texas, and then it proceeded through a poll of all component manufacturers in Texas and New Mexico on whether the chapter should reference "Rio Grande" or the "Southwest." When the first ballot was inconclusive, a second was conducted among those individuals who have participated in the formation to date. Voila! The Component Manufacturers Association of the Rio Grande, or CMARG, was given the green light in March to file its incorporation papers.

Importantly, with the name issue resolved, the chapter is able to pursue the meaty issues - especially educating the marketplace. Planning has begun on a series of building official seminars in New Mexico to be held in conjunction with the chapter's quarterly meetings.

So, if you are doing business in New Mexico or southwest Texas, be sure to check out CMARG. Its next meeting will be held on July 17, but you can contact WTCA anytime for more information.

A New Tradition—
The Joint Chapter Meeting

For the third year in a row, the Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and Tennessee Chapters held a joint winter meeting in Chattanooga, TN. The meeting topic was: “Today’s Component Industry and a Look to the Future—The Challenges and Changes of Our Business.” With WTCA Executive Director Kirk Grundahl filling the role of guest speaker this year, attendees reviewed the state of the present day component industry and what its future might hold for everyone. With the current slowdown in the industry, initiatives that tomorrow’s component manufacturer should consider were proposed and avenues for renewed growth and prosperity were explored. The meeting also provided an opportunity to review how members can build their business and brand with the support services that WTCA provides.

Equally as important as the meeting topic, however, is the forum that the joint chapter meeting provides. Once a year, the members in these four chapters are encouraged to attend a meeting where they can connect with their fellow manufacturers in the region. The additional perspective from members across the area offers valuable insight on issues being faced by all. When so many members may feel consumed with the day-to-day activities of running their businesses, the joint chapter meeting is a welcome chance to connect with people they may not have seen for a year. Discussing current topics and socializing over dinner, the joint chapter meeting is tradition we hope will continue for many years.

Reaching the Marketplace with BCSI - March 2007

Only a few months after the release of its 2006 edition, the chapters are again recognizing the value of BCSI, Building Component Safety Information: Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing, Restraining & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses. This important safety information now comes in an 8½" by 11", spiral-bound book complete with updated information, industry best practices and graphics. The Wood Truss Council of the Capital Area (WTCCA) in particular is hoping to capitalize on what a powerful tool this document is in the hands of builders, framers and building officials.

At its January meeting, Capital Area Chapter members unanimously approved a motion to purchase 25 BCSI books for each of their component manufacturer members and challenged those members to get the BCSI into the hands of their customers. Additionally, the chapter pledged to purchase enough BCSI books to give one to every building inspector official in their marketplace. This represents a significant investment by the chapter to educate and inform those who handle, install and inspect its members’ products, a decision that will likely earn a rich return!

“The BCSI is the most comprehensive tool we have to tell our customers how they should handle and install our products,” stated chapter member and board representative Joe Hikel of Shelter Systems Limited in Westminster, MD. “We can save ourselves a lot of heartache and follow-up repairs, not to mention jobsite accidents, by getting this into their hands and making them read it.”

For more information on the BCSI or to start a similar educational effort in your area, contact WTCA staff.

Chapter Publications Co-ops: One More Benefit of Membership - January/February 2007

By the end of 2006, WTCA Chapters had one more benefit of membership to discuss when encouraging nonmembers to join–automatic inclusion of a member’s purchases each month in the chapter’s publications cooperative.

Previously, a chapter member had to specify that he wanted his order held for the co-op. Orders were then fulfilled on the designated date each month and any applicable quantity discounts were applied.

Now, ALL chapter member purchases are automatically included in the pubs co-ops. In addition, ALL orders are fulfilled as they are submitted since none of them needs to be “held for co-op.” Instead of showing a quantity discount at the time of purchase, the saving is credited back to the member at the end of the month.

The possible savings to chapter members are great. All WTCA publications are included in the co-op as well as other products and even educational courses. The best part is that no effort is required on the part of the person submitting the order—the discounts will be credited back at the end of the month automatically.

To see if you have earned a credit, you may log onto the WTCA website at www.sbcindustry.com/loc_chap_coop.php. A report of the money saved by the members of each chapter is available, too.

So, the next time you are encouraging someone to join your local chapter, remember to tell them about their potential savings from your publications co-op. It is a very measurable benefit of membership in a WTCA Chapter.

The Safety Zone & the California Chapter - December 2006

The California Engineered Structural Components Association–Southern Region, or CalESCA-South for short, is spearheading a project that will be of interest to all component manufacturers: the Safety Zone for Off-Loading Components. The goal of this project is to provide an improved, industry-wide approach to designating a safety zone for off-loading trusses and components at a jobsite. To meet this goal, the chapter held its October meeting at an actual jobsite to “beta test” the concept in practice.

Central to the Safety Zone concept is the use of signage on a jobsite to show clearly that caution must be used. The signs themselves are bilingual (English/Spanish) and were created with the international symbol concept in mind, so that language is not a factor and they are discernable even at a distance. The signs will be portable, able to fit into a truck cab and easy enough to take in and out.

Given the risks associated with jobsites, and the ever-present element of chance combined with human error, clearly designating a zone for off-loading components is a must. As all members know so well, human error can lead to unfortunate accidents. With the Safety Zone project, the chapter has created signage that all component manufacturers will be able to use to reduce human error.

CalESCA-South is compiling the information it learned at the October beta test and feeding it back into the project development. WTCA staff is currently getting all of the information it needs to produce these new safety zone signs, so watch for more information on the Safety Zone concept in early 2007!

Announcing the Rio Grande Component Manufacturers Association - November 2006

On August 31, a meeting was held in Las Cruces, NM to start a New Mexico Chapter of WTCA. By the end of the evening, component manufacturers and suppliers from New Mexico and West Texas agreed upon an official name for the group: Rio Grande Component Manufacturers Association (RGCMA).

Encompassing more that just New Mexico, the Rio Grande Chapter welcomes members from Texas, especially the El Paso area. The concentrations of component manufacturers in El Paso, TX, Las Cruces, NM and Albuquerque, NM are the initial focus of the chapter start-up efforts, but anyone interested in the Rio Grande Chapter is encouraged to participate!

At the first meeting, the attendees welcomed WTCA Legal Counsel Kent Pagel as the guest speaker. The meeting, social hour and dinner were generously sponsored by the supplier members: Truswal Systems, CompuTrus, Eagle Metal Products, Robbins Engineering and MiTek Industries. As always, the support of our TPI supplier members is warmly appreciated.

At the second meeting, scheduled for October 17 in Las Cruces, the attendees planned to discuss their work on draft bylaws and articles of incorporation as well as fill chapter leadership roles and confer on a chapter dues structure. They also continued to develop their list of chapter projects and goals, which included addressing design responsibilities issues as a group and offering plant tours and educational information for the fire service.

In 2007, the Rio Grande Chapter expects to hold its meetings in the same week as the Arizona and Southern Nevada Chapters, on the third Tuesday of the quarter unless otherwise noted: January 16, April 24, July 17 and October 16.

Now it remains to be seen which group formally will become the 33rd Chapter of WTCA—Rio Grande or Arkansas. We hope to welcome them both on board in 2007!

Basketball, Contracts & Fasteners: The Joint New York/Northeast Chapter Meeting - September/October 2006

When the New York and Northeast Chapters had the opportunity to welcome WTCA Legal Counsel Kent Pagel as the guest speaker in July, they decided to make it a memorable occasion. For this special joint chapter meeting, they booked a meeting room at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA.

Being so close to the OMG/FastenMaster plant in Agawam, MA, the chapters were also invited on a morning tour of that facility. Members that wanted to take full advantage of the day’s offerings could do the morning plant tour, followed by lunch and the chapter meeting, and then a trip through the hall of fame itself. Of course, hearing Kent Pagel’s presentation, “Successfully Negotiating an Acceptable Customer Contract,” was the main reason why the attendees turned out that day! (See photos.)

Thank you to Kent for the presentation, FastenMaster for the tour, and the chapter members for attending! Next time, we’ll shoot for Cooperstown.

Southwest Florida Chapter Turns 20! - August 2006

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Southwest Florida Truss Manufacturers Association, a barbeque was held on Saturday, May 20 at Centennial Park in downtown Fort Myers. The chapter provided food and drinks for its members and their families, catered by Smoke’n Pit. A very short chapter meeting was held and the rest of the day focused on enjoying the park and the party.

Happy Anniversary Southwest Florida!

Checking in with the Western Chapter - June/July 2006

Two years ago this month, the “Oregon Chapter” held a kick-off meeting that drew an impressive crowd of area manufacturers and suppliers. By July 2004, they had an agenda of issues to tackle and a new name: Western Component Manufacturers Association (WCMA). Since then, the WCMA has been recognized by the WTCA Board of Directors as the 32nd Chapter of WTCA. So what is it up to lately? Lots!

Membership Development
With assistance from staff, a newsletter was created to promote WCMA membership and participation. In conjunction with the May 18 chapter meeting, this full-color newsletter was mailed to all members and potential members in Oregon and southern Washington.

Education

WCMA has conducted several seminars and expects to hold many more. The list includes: a permanent bracing seminar for the City of Hillsboro, a truss inspection seminar for the Oregon Building Officials Association (OBOA), a truss plant tour for the U.S. Fire Administration in cooperation with AF&PA and WTCA, and a meeting on manufacturing quality criteria for the City of Portland.

Want to know more? Check out the newsletter posted online at the chapter’s page on the WTCA website: www.sbcindustry.com/chapters/wcma.php. Would you like help producing a similar newsletter for your chapter? Just let us know!

Addressing Chapter Issues with WTCA Tech Notes - May 2006

All component manufacturers have days when they wish they had a standard industry policy that they could simply refer to resolve an issue with a building official, architect, engineer, or someone else in the industry—a simple piece of paper that says how our industry has already addressed a particular question and has a recognized response. To fill that need, WTCA has developed Tech Notes.

WTCA Technical Notes address specific component industry situations, pulling together all of the facts we have and applying building code regulations, professional engineering law, truss industry standards, etc. to define a logical approach. Tech Notes use a Background, Issue, Analysis and Conclusion template, and all Tech Notes are reviewed by the WTCA Engineering & Technology Committee. Through this consensus process, all industry members can be sure that we are speaking from a united industry position.

Once finalized, Tech Notes are posted online at www.sbcindustry.com/technotes.php and freely available for use by anyone online or as printable PDFs at any time. Please bookmark this site and refer anyone with a question to it, email them the PDF, or print one out for a meeting and hand it out. The bottom line is that the information is at your fingertips and theirs!

Importantly, Tech Notes are developed in cooperation with WTCA Chapters and are state-based where applicable. On the web site, there is an interactive map so that anyone browsing may click on a particular state to see what Tech Notes are available.

So, the question to ask your chapter now is: what issues do we have that could be resolved with a Tech Note? The most common issues to date are those surrounding requests for sealed truss placement diagrams. Missouri and Kentucky were the first states to act as templates (see also the Chapter Corner item on Missouri). The latest work for the State of Missouri is being edited where this issue arises in other states and the pertinent state laws are incorporated into the text. Also in the works are Tech Notes on design responsibilities, web member bracing, bottom chord live loads and more. Many issues can be addressed through Tech Notes, so be sure to let WTCA staff know what issues you need to resolve in your marketplace—we’ll gladly work with you, since it is likely that if you are facing an issue, another component manufacturer will too.

"I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate the team effort in dealing with the sealed placement plan issue in Kentucky. By submitting the Tech Note Position Statement to the local engineering companies, things have quieted down at least for now. Please pass on to those responsible our gratitude."

—Clyde Bartlett, Bluegrass Truss Company, WTCA–Kentucky Chapter

Solving Problems Through Teamwork—WTMA & WTCA - April 2006

Thanks to a Wisconsin Chapter (WTMA)/WTCA staff team effort, we were able to work with Larry Swaziek of the WI Department of Commerce to clarify the intent behind a provision that was being misinterpreted in the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code. During a meeting held by the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code Council and Multifamily Dwelling Code Council on October 27, 2005, proposal comm. 62.2303 was announced. Comm. 62.2303 would change the requirements for truss design drawings to specify project-specific details to always be included as part of the truss drawings, including showing the anchorage, splicing, and termination of permanent bracing.

Wisconsin Chapter member Joe Michels immediately got the chapter and staff involved. It appeared that the proposal was made based on a misunderstanding of the International Building Code (IBC) code change, S165, accepted for inclusion in the 2006 IBC. Staff contacted the Department of Commerce (DOC) for further clarification and developed a Tech Note responding to the issue and clarifying the misunderstanding. Staff member Ryan Dexter then hand delivered the Tech Note to the Commercial Building Code Council and Multifamily Dwelling Council Committee meeting on December 8, 2005. The DOC responded back to WTMA on February 2 with the decision to not include this proposal change. It deleted the entire IBC section related to truss design drawing requirements and will continue to do so in the future.

Following on the heels of that outstanding success from the chapter/staff team, reactions were quick on another issue, too. On March 7, a meeting of the Uniform Dwelling Code Council was held in Madison, WI, and staff was able to attend and react to a proposal to amend residential wall bracing provisions in the UDC. The proposal (by APA) would make the UDC more complicated by bringing in the entire suite of IRC provisions (IRC 602.10) that have caused so much confusion and are technically very difficult to understand. Because staff is involved in the Adhoc IRC Sheathing Task Group (in particular the IRC code development process) and has a great relationship with State of Wisconsin code staff, we were able to clarify to the Council that the proposal being presented was not ready for prime time and had not reached a consensus on the approaches to this issue that truly serve the best interest of everyone in our industry.

These are just two examples of success from good communication and a chapter/staff team. If you have any questions on these or other issues, please let us know!

Upping the Ante: The Iowa Chapter’s Carbeck Challenge - March 2006

Since 2002, the Iowa Chapter has challenged all WTCA Chapters to match its contribution of $1,000 to the Carbeck Structural Components Institute and this year it upped the ante. To mark the 4th anniversary of the challenge, the Iowa Chapter has made a $1,500 donation to Carbeck and urges all chapters to follow suit.

Many chapters have responded to the Iowa challenge in the past, including Arizona, Illinois, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Northwest, Southern Nevada, South Florida and Texas. With the Arizona Chapter already contributing $1,000 and the Northwest Chapter contributing $2,000, this may be the most successful year yet! In addition, chapters are encouraged to take the challenge one step further and conduct local educational efforts. The goal of Carbeck is to educate firefighters across the country, improve fire safety and present the facts, not myths, surrounding the performance of structural building components. Carbeck’s “The Fire Performance of Wood Trusses” CD has been a great success since its creation in 2002. With a new CD being created that is completely revising the existing training programs and adding great new content as well, this CD and our Carbeck online training course will be available by March 15.

As stated by the Iowa Chapter:

“Please accept the enclosed $1,500 check from the Iowa Truss Manufacturers Association to the Carbeck Structural Components Institute to be used to further the initiative to educate firefighters across the country. It is our sincere hope that we will achieve the goal of improving fire service knowledge and safety when it comes to the performance of metal plate connected wood trusses in a fire situation. We would also appreciate your extending a challenge to the other WTCA Chapters across the nation to consider a contribution to the Carbeck Institute so it can afford to increase its efforts in this area of fundamental importance to our industry.”

Whether it is financial support or local training with the fire service, the WTCA Chapters can and will make a difference. Together, we will foster greater marketplace knowledge and ensure our industry’s future is even more successful than it is today.

20 Years & Going Strong
The West Florida Chapter’s Building Officials Seminar - January 2006

On November 10, 2005, the West Florida Chapter hosted its 20th Annual Building Officials Meeting at the Robbins Engineering Truss Testing Facility in Tampa. Though the event is another ten years older than that, it has been a steady feature in consecutive years for “only” the past 20. Once again, it was a great success! This year’s educational seminar was a Truss Technology Workshop (TTW) on How to Read a Truss Placement Diagram and How to Read a Truss Design Drawing delivered by WTCA staff. Naturally, the companion publications from WTCA were distributed to all attendees. Quizzes were interspersed in the presentation, too, which helped focus the issues at hand and added to everyone’s enjoyment. The highlight of the event, however, was the truss testing demonstration (see photo below). A broken and repaired truss was put on the rack and tested to the limit. The building officials were encouraged to put their knowledge and assumptions to the test and guess when it would fail. As the component manufacturers suspected—the truss did not fail until about three times the design load was applied. This testing demonstration again proved that it is one of the best ways to show the strength, reliability and quality of our products!

Special thanks go to Robbins Engineering for co-hosting the presentation with the West Florida Truss Association and to Simpson Strong-Tie Company for providing lunch for the attendees. Once again, the chapter demonstrated that it is going strong and so are its efforts to educate the building official community.

New (& Improved) Ideas for Truss Technology Workshops - November 2005

In the past few months, some new ideas and concepts have been developed for chapters that desire to offer educational programs in their areas. Whether or not your chapter has experience with providing educational programs, now is the time to make an assessment of marketplace needs and develop a 2006 strategy. WTCA’s marketing committee work in this area is making it much easier to offer valuable information to a variety of groups in your marketplace including: building and fire officials; architects and engineers; builders, contractors and framers; other related professionals; and component manufacturers, too.

A few examples of the types of educational programs that are easy to provide follow.

1. TTW plus Plant Tour: The benefits of offering a plant tour cannot be overstated. Undoubtedly the simplest educational program you can offer, inviting your local building official or anyone else to see your plant first-hand provides them with an inside look at the component manufacturing process and an ounce of goodwill too. When you combine a plant tour with a Truss Technology Workshop program, you’re doubling the benefit. Whether it is building officials or contractors, they will receive valuable information “in class” and insight from the tour. In addition, you may offer the TTW and plant tour for continuing education credit. Providing CEU or PDH credits tends to increase turnout. The Central Florida Chapter offered an 8-hour TTW plus tour event in August and it was a resounding 72-person success! Just let staff know if you would like assistance setting up a similar event for your chapter.
2. Sponsoring TTWs Online: Our new Truss Technology Workshop web site at ttw.sbcindustry.com is your source for educational information for the structural building components industry. This site provides comprehensive online multi-media courses on metal plate connected wood trusses and structural building component construction. If you would like to offer an educational workshop but the logistics are getting in the way, why not sponsor online access to a Truss Technology Workshop? A while back we began offering online access coupons, and with the new TTW web site this option is even easier. Upon arrival at the new web site, the person you sponsor will see quite clearly which courses are recommended to each profession. The layout is simple and direct. What’s more, you may choose to sponsor one course, and they may then choose to take the rest later since they have seen what is available. Just let staff know if your chapter would like to try this training approach.
3. Improved Access to TTW Course Materials & Information: Not sure what TTWs you could be offering and uncertain about what materials are available? Check out the online resources on the new TTW web site, ttw.sbcindustry.com. There is a complete section for component manufacturers that explains all of the available Truss Technology Workshop courses including subject matter, length and recommended handouts. It could not be simpler and staff will assist your chapter with customization as needed.
4. Additional Workshop Ideas: In addition to the extensive list of TTWs already available, our chapters are also striking out in new directions and offering even more programs in their markets. For example, the South Florida Chapter is hosting a WTCA Operation Safety Workshop in cooperation with the Safety Council of Palm Beach on November 18. The first of its kind, this workshop will have presentations on safety management topics and a roundtable discussion for component manufacturers. If your chapter has an idea for a workshop that it would like to offer, give staff a call and we'll see how we can help.
5. Remember, all WTCA courses and programs were developed by request and are geared toward meeting the needs of our members. If you would like assistance with any of the existing programs or need something new, just let us know.

Chapter Membership Pays Off with Publications Cooperatives - September/October

Do you ever wish you could take advantage of quantity discounts more often? With a chapter publications cooperative, the odds are even better that you can do just that!

The premise of a chapter publications co-op is simple: by processing orders for chapter members at the same time, each company is eligible to receive quantity discounts that may apply to any of the products ordered that month.

How it works: Each company participating will receive the products it orders and an individual invoice. Prices will be based upon the total quantity ordered by the co-op each month. For example, if Company A orders 20 BCSI 1-03 booklets and Company B orders 30 BCSI 1-03 booklets, then both reach the pricing level of 50 or more booklets and save $0.50 per booklet. The savings is automatically applied to each individual invoice.

To Participate:

1. Submit your publications order by the 15th of the month or other date selected.
   Because this is a cooperative based on quantities ordered by multiple companies, there must be an end date for orders. Most chapters are selecting the 15th. Orders are collected and processed on or about the 16th of the month and shipped within that week following the end date. (If possible, please submit online orders between the 1st and 15th, rather than the month “before,” so that they do not have to be reprocessed and a new invoice generated.)
2. Note on your order to hold for your chapter’s co-op.
   In order to guarantee that your order is included in the co-op, you must: (a) make a notation on the fax, (b) indicate that to WTCA staff when calling, or (c) add a comment in the “Special Instructions” field of the online publications shopping cart. You do not need a special form, only the notation to include your order in the cooperative.

Additional Considerations:

1. If you miss the 15th: You may submit your order at any time, and we will hold it until the following month provided that you include the notation to hold for your chapter’s co-op.
2. If it is a rush order: You likely should NOT have it held for the co-op. Because of the processing involved during the week following your chapter’s end date, your order may be delayed. Please use your judgment on assessing your needs.

• California
• Mid South
• Iowa
• Ohio
• Michigan
• Texas
• Mid Atlantic
• West Florida

The best part is the more companies that participate, the greater your saving may be! In June, one Ohio Chapter member had an invoice go from $1166 to $1036—a savings of $130. These results may not be typical yet, but you’ll never know how much you could save until you try.

The Capital Area Chapter & the WTCA/Frush Ideas Seminar - June 2005

This spring, the Wood Truss Council of the Capital Area sponsored a brand new workshop for component manufacturers—the WTCA/Frush Ideas Workers' Compensation Seminar. Delivered by Nancy Frush of Frush ideas, this one-day workshop provided valuable information on reducing risks and controlling costs. The chapter members attending the seminar learned strategies to reduce workers compensation costs, approaches to drastically reduce work time lost due to injury, techniques to allow productivity to soar and ways to maximize workers' potential. The workshop evaluations could not be clearer—the new seminar is a hit! When it came to rating content, helpfulness and speaker effectiveness, all attendees responded "excellent." Rating handout materials, a few attendees checked "good" but the majority checked “excellent” there as well. Furthermore, the evaluation comments noted Nancy’s "great energy, knowledge and enthusiasm" and how "everything was helpful." With this terrific response, it is clear that we will be scheduling more WTCA/Frush Ideas Workers' Compensation Seminars in the months to come. Just let us know if your chapter would like to sponsor a workshop and we will handle the rest!

A Special "Thanks" to the Chapters — April 2005

This year, WTCA staff began attending chapter meetings on a quarterly basis and we would like to extend a special “Thank You” for the warm welcome we have received. We always knew that our members were the best around and you have certainly proven that to us!

Our experiences at chapter meetings are a constant reminder of why we as staff care as much as we do about serving our membership. Without exception, our membership is helpful, appreciative, thoughtful, knowledgeable, friendly and just plain fun to be around. We are learning a lot and hope you are too! Please let us know when we can be of even more assistance to you and your chapter. If you miss the chance to speak with a staff member at your chapter meeting, feel free to give us a call or send an email instead. We are eager to hear your feedback, suggestions, ideas, criticisms, compliments and concerns. Just let us know what is on your mind and how else we can continue to work with and provide support to you and your chapter.

So, thank you for a great start to this new program. We look forward to seeing even more of our members’ smiling faces as we work together in the months to come.

Two New Chapters Join WTCA — April 2005

We are pleased to announce that two new chapters have joined WTCA. Welcome aboard Minnesota Truss Manufacturers Association (MTMA) and Western Component Manufacturers Association (WCMA). With MTMA in Minnesota and WCMA covering Oregon and southern Washington, we now have 32 chapters representing members across 37 states! If you would like more information on the chapter in your area, give them a call! Contact information for each chapter president is listed on the WTCA web site. Otherwise, contact Anna or Dani at WTCA-National.

Furthermore, if you are in one of the few states left where no chapter has formed yet, then let's see what we can do about that! Contact WTCA and we’ll help you and the fellow WTCA members in your area set up a chapter. Chapters are WTCA’s local eyes and ears and are our single most important source of information affecting what our industry’s work priorities should be. They are also a very valuable way of establishing solid working relationships, so that our industry has the strongest team possible should a need arise that requires immediate action.

The Carbeck Challenge — March 2005

In 2002, the Iowa Truss Manufacturers Association (ITMA) challenged all of its fellow WTCA Chapters to donate $1,000 annually to the Carbeck Structural Components Institute. Since then, several chapters have responded to the challenge. Indeed, the 2005 contributions have already arrived from the Iowa and WTCA-New York Chapters. The Southern Nevada Component Manufacturers Association (SNCMA), however, has decided to take things up a notch. SNCMA has donated $5,000 to Carbeck this year.

With these donations, CSCI will be able to continue its mission to undertake research and educational activities on behalf of our industry. The Fire Performance of Wood Trusses CD is only the beginning of what will soon become a long list of CSCI successes.

Thank you to our on-going chapter partners, and a special thank you to the very generous Southern Nevada Chapter, for contributing to this vital research and education.

"Over the last few years, the work that has been funded by the Carbeck Structural Components Institute has gone a long way in helping educate the public on the benefits of structural framing. The research into the areas of fire performance and other aspects of fire retardation and the study of bracing analysis/truss stability have greatly enhanced the credibility of our industry. Thanks to many of you, Carbeck will allow our industry to continue taking the lead into the future of framing methods and solutions."

—Richard W. Brown, President, CSCI

An Educational Tradition — January/February 2005

The West Florida Chapter's Annual Building Official's education class was held November 16 and was hosted by Robbins Engineering. WFTA has sponsored this class and Bar-B-Que since the mid 1980s and Robbins Engineering has been the host site for the majority of those years. Six Tampa Bay area building jurisdictions where represented and there were over 60 people in attendance. There were 3 guest speakers, a truss breaking demonstration, and the most delicious baked beans featuring smoked bar-b-que flavoring and tiny bacon pieces. Robert Wall P.E., of Architectural Services, spent at least an hour discussing truss bracing; Bill Jotham P.E., of SCI EWP, followed with an update on changes in the engineered wood industry; and Ron Gaines, of Simpson Strong-Tie, concluded the evening with a presentation on inspection of structural connectors. As always, the night's highlight was Robbin's truss testing rack, where the inspectors were shown what happens to a truss when temporary bracing is missing. The simulation was performed on a 4X2 floor truss. The inspectors were given a detailed drawing of the truss and were asked to submit an ultimate load on the truss, as well as mark on the drawing where the truss would eventually break. The engineers at Robbins proceeded to simulate a load on the truss; thankfully, and not surprisingly, the truss ultimate load far exceeded the design load. The prize winner was then given a pair of tickets to see an upcoming Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game. WFTA thanks Robbins Engineering for the use of their facility and engineering expertise and we look forward to next year's event.

Going the Distance—The Iowa Truss Manufacturers Association Education Committee—November 2004

With a highly active and successful education committee, the Iowa Chapter has a wealth of experience to share with other chapters looking to do more educational activities. Each year, the Iowa Truss Manufacturers Association (ITMA) coordinates and delivers an extensive slate of Truss Technology Workshop programs. With an educational season running from October to April, the chapter conducted eight workshops this year and reached home builders, framers, building officials, fire service professionals, students, design professionals, component manufacturers, lumber dealers and the insurance industry to name a few.

What’s their secret? The education committee has 12 members, so no one person is overtaxed doing all of the presentations. They’re supportive of each other and they’re comfortable with the material they’re delivering. They also have their procedures in place, so from the outside looking in the whole process resembles a well-oiled machine. They know who they’ll contact before the season begins, they keep excellent track of the attendees at each workshop and the performance evaluations, and they always follow up with a thank you letter and an offer to provide even more information upon request.

Granted, the chapter did not wake up one day with all of this in place. It took time and effort. But the chapter members believe that it is worth the time and effort, and they have made it a success. Does that mean that other chapters can develop successful education committees too? Absolutely! Iowa is not a magical state where education is easier and people are more receptive. It is pretty much like everyone else’s backyard. If your chapter needs a little advice and encouragement in this department, try giving ITMA a call—they would be happy to help.

“As education committee chair, I coordinate all the training schedules. I start by sending a letter to every home builders association, community college and junior college in the state around November or December, inviting them to contact us and set up a presentation. We’ve been doing this for five or six consecutive years now...Our objective is to promote the safe and effective use of components. We’ve done our job if we’ve accomplished that goal. I’m convinced that there have been less personal injuries and claims that have occurred in Iowa since we’ve been hosting this training. If our products are installed properly, people are going to use more of them.” —Ray J. Noonan, Jr., Cascade Mfg Co., Cascade, IA

Calling All Members—Be on the Lookout for the Monthly Chapter Teleconference—September/October 2004

Designed to encourage communication between the chapters, the monthly Chapter Teleconference is a convenient way to touch base with other WTCA members on current issues. Have you given it a try yet? It is:

Convenient—you never have to leave your desk.
Accessible—simply dial conference call number and passcode.
Predictable—the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 1 pm ET.

Furthermore, your fellow member attendees are:

Helpful—everyone is encouraged to bring new issues to the table for feedback.
Informative—it is a terrific forum for answering questions.
Friendly—the tenor of the call is familiar and comfortable.

Since the Chapter Teleconference began on March 12, 2003, the issues discussed have included:

• BSCI 1-03
• Operation Safety
• Truss Technology Workshops
• Regional Workshop & Conferences
• Chapter web sites
• Membership drives
• Electronic seals and signatures
• Design responsibilities
• Standard contracts and warranties
• Mold
• Transportation and permit issues
• Long span truss installation
• Bottom chord loading
• IBC, IRC and NFPA 5000

Why not call in to find out what you can learn and what advice your fellow members would like to hear from you? The remaining dates for 2004 are:

• September 8
• October 13
• November 10
• December 8

We hope you will attend!

Chapter Development in the Pacific Northwest —August 2004

If you look at the WTCA Chapters logo, you’ll notice that the western states of Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and California all have a WTCA Chapter operating within their borders but Oregon does not. This situation, however, is about to change. That’s right, the good folks in Oregon will soon be asking to have their state “colored in” on this map.

Component manufacturer and associate members are currently hard at work setting up a new Oregon Chapter. The first Oregon Chapter Kick-Off Meeting was held on June 9 and drew an impressive crowd. Several area manufacturers were represented and the associate members were on board too. The tab for dinner was generously picked up MiTek Industries. Everyone at the meeting agreed that it was time to form a local chapter and began making plans. The second meeting was held on July 8 and the agenda of issues to tackle included ODOT permits, fall protection issues and OSHA, and stamped layout requirements. In addition, the chapter chose a name: Western Component Manufacturers Association (WCMA).

This chapter development is proceeding at a quick pace, and we expect to be hearing a lot more from them throughout the summer and fall. If you would like more information, please feel free to contact Anna at WTCA-National (608/310-6719 or astamm@qualtim.com), David Hughes at Oregon Truss (503/581-8787 or davidh@oregontruss.com) or Lee Howe at Lumbermen’s Building Centers (503/657-8644 or lhowe@lumbermens.net). Anyone who is ready, willing and able is welcome to participate!

Fifth Annual WTCA Membership Drive —June/July 2004

From April 1 through September 1, the chapters are competing to be the #1 Recruiting Chapter of 2004. Past winners are the South Florida Truss & Component Manufacturers Association (SFTCMA), the Truss Manufacturers Association of Texas (TMAT) and the WTCA Ohio Chapter Association (WTCAOCA). In addition to the prestige of winning, the prizes awarded annually include:

• Inclusion on the #1 Chapter, Membership Recruitment Award plaque proudly on display at WTCA-National.
• Ten Professional’s Guide to the Industry customized binders.
• Recognition in Structural Building Components Magazine and at the WTCA Annual Meeting at BCMC.

In addition, two more prizes have been added this year:

• Possession of the #1 Chapter, Membership Recruitment Traveling Trophy
• Individual Certificates of Recognition for each chapter member.

As the summer heats up, so will the membership drive! Many chapters have found that a personal call followed up with a potential member package is well received. Personal invitations to upcoming chapter meetings are also appreciated by nonmembers. In addition, some chapters will toss in other incentives. For example, the Wisconsin Truss Manufacturers Association (WTMA) invited nonmembers to its annual August golf and fishing outing as guests of the chapter. Two companies took the chapter up on the generous offer, and one of those companies joined right after the event. Even though WTMA didn’t win the membership drive that year, it was still rewarded with a new membership.

The best part of the membership drive is that everyone ends up a winner—whether a chapter wins the trophy or not, everyone wins when new companies join the national and local associations.

Reaching a Wider Audience with a Chapter Web Site —May 2004

Are you looking for a way to reach more people with pertinent educational information? Would you like to post your company contact information on more web sites? Do you need a convenient place to check on important chapter meeting dates and announcements? If so, then your chapter should consider creating a chapter web site.

Just some of the items that may be posted on a chapter web site are:

1. Educational & Technical Information
• Technical bulletins and articles of use to manufacturers and building officials
• Recommendations for building officials including publications, Truss Technology Workshops and plant tours
• Recommendations for manufacturers including products and Truss Knowledge Online courses and programs

2. Chapter Meetings & Membership Information
• Chapter membership list and contact information
• Meeting announcements and updates
• Information on the chapter and how to join

3. And anything else that chapter members would like to have available on the web for themselves or others in their marketplace!

The chapters currently developing web sites with assistance from WTCA staff are:
• Michigan: www.wtcmich.com
• Missouri: www.mtfachapter.com
• North Carolina: www.wtcnc.com
• Texas: www.tmatchapter.com
• Wisconsin: www.wiwtca.com

Top Ten Reasons to Attend Your Local Chapter Meeting (or Start a Chapter in Your Area) —April 2004

There is no better place to highlight the importance of chapter meetings than in this issue focusing on grassroots activities. It is at local chapter meetings that members learn what’s new, discuss what’s hot and strategize for the future.

The top ten reasons to attend your local chapter meetings are:

1. Debate current controversies and arrive at a chapter position to the issues.
2. Clarify code interpretations, especially when building officials are delaying jobs.
3. Uncover underlying patterns to common problems and devise industry-wide solutions.
4. Identify members with personal contacts with building officials, local legislators and others that will help the chapter when there are tough issues to tackle.
5. Select related associations and groups that would benefit from educational seminars and a better understanding of component construction.
6. Review the latest industry news and developments.
7. Learn about the latest products and educational opportunities available from WTCA.
8. Recognize what products or services you would like to see from WTCA and contact staff to make them happen.
9. Discuss ways to expand the market for structural building components.
10. Develop new friendships—there’s no rule that competitors can’t also be friends!

As the Southwest Florida Truss Manufacturers Association includes in its meeting minutes:

“There is no way we can put enough in the minutes to give anyone near the benefit one would receive if they were in attendance at that meeting. There is normal conversation had at the meetings that with the spontaneity and different perspectives yields a great benefit to those present. Bring your comments, questions and examples to the next meeting for us all to discuss and work on together. Responding to all of these new challenges as a group with shared knowledge will enhance everyone’s position in our respective marketplaces.”

Working Together to Reach the Marketplace: The Southern Nevada Chapter & the Southern Pine Council —March 2004

Even though the Southern Nevada Component Manufacturers Association (SNCMA) did not have a booth at this year’s NAHB International Builders Show in Las Vegas, it made an impressive appearance on the show floor. SNCMA donated the trusses that comprised the Southern Pine Council (SPC) booth. With southern pine donated by Weyerhaeuser and trusses constructed by Sun State Components of Nevada, the Southern Nevada Chapter supplied the barrel vault trusses and temporary bracing. In addition, the bracing was color-coded to match the temporary bracing recommendations depicted in the new Building Component Safety Information series, BCSI 1-03. WTCA sent copies of the B1 Summary Sheet for attendees to take. SPC also set out copies of the WTCA Membership List for visitors to locate component manufacturers in their areas. With the show’s attendance at 104,627 and 803,530 square feet of exhibit space, the cooperation between SNCMA and SPC helped demonstrate the appeal of trusses to even more potential customers.

Top Ten Reasons to Attend the 2004 Regional Workshop & Conferences — January/February 2004

1. The Las Vegas Workshop will feature a mini Risk Management Seminar delivered by WTCA Legal Counsel Kent Pagel, in which he will focus primarily on claims management.
2. The New Orleans Workshop will feature a highly qualified panel of speakers on building code and design issues.
3. The opportunity to network with fellow chapter members from across the country leads to a great exchange of information and advice.
4. The open forum discussions in the afternoon of each Workshop allow members to raise pertinent questions related to the day's agenda.
5. The generous Workshop sponsors are providing tabletop displays in Las Vegas, and informational literature for attendees in both cities.
6. Since the Workshops are scheduled on Fridays (with optional golf or social activities on Saturday), the time away from the office is minimized.
7. The easily-reached tourist destinations of Las Vegas and New Orleans are terrific spots to escape your winter woes while combining business with pleasure (you may spend the weekend taking advantage of the NASCAR event in Las Vegas or visiting the French Quarter in New Orleans if you choose).
8. Including continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Workshops are a tremendous value - member pricing is only $99 per person in Las Vegas, $79 per person in New Orleans.
9. We promise you will leave feeling energized!
10. Learning, planning, networking - it's all in store for you at the 2004 Regional Workshop & Conferences!

Educating Your Building Officials Through Online TTWs — December 2003

Everyone knows that WTCA has created terrific Truss Technology Workshop programs (TTWs), but not everyone realizes how easy they are to access. Because TTWs are part of the Truss Knowledge Online (TKO) site, www.wtcatko.com, they are available 24/7 to anyone who needs a little more education on our industry. In addition, companies and chapters are able to sponsor access for others.

On November 5, Idaho Truss & Component Co. in Meridian, ID tried out our new “coupon” approach for TTW access in combination with a live presentation. Idaho Truss delivered a presentation to building officials on local information and other items not available through the online programs, and then included a “teaser” for “Storage, Handling, Installation and Bracing” (SHIB) online. By delivering only a small taste of the SHIB TTW, Idaho Truss was able to interest its audience in the material and hopefully entice them to check it out themselves. The added bonus—the first 15 building officials were offered the coupons for complimentary access to the program.

By paying for the coupons for local building officials, Idaho Truss has fostered two very important things in its marketplace—education and goodwill. Plus, with the new low price of online TTWs, only $20 per credit hour, it was a smart investment.

Furthermore, the coupons need not be used for building officials only. Anyone that you would like to receive more information may be given complimentary access to TKO programs. Simply contact WTCA staff to make the arrangements. Together, we will continue to educate professionals about the future of framing.

Electronic Seals & Signatures in Riverside County — November 2003

Through diligence and persistence, the California Chapter (CalESCA) has been able to accomplish two goals at one time. Not only is the requirement for sealed placement plans soon to be completely revised, but also in dealing with Riverside County the chapter has gotten electronic seals and signatures (ESS) approved for immediate use. The value of a chapter forming a relationship with local building officials has never been clearer.

On the issue of sealed placement plans, CalESCA has worked with Mr. Kack Sung, P.E., Subdivision Engineer, County of Riverside. It was through those discussions that ESS arose as a topic. Though it was not part of the original project work that the chapter set out to accomplish, the opportunity to receive approval for ESS could not be wasted. On September 2, 2003, Mr. Sung wrote:

The section 411 of the California Code of Regulations for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, Title 16, Division 5 states that signatures may be applied to the documents electronically. We may not have been handling these signatures consistently especially with pre-fabricated truss packages. The following guideline shall be used to clarify the matter.

If the seals and signatures are placed electronically as a part of a computer file, such printed truss design drawings may be accepted with a single cover sheet sealed and wet signed by the truss design engineer. The cover sheet shall include the following statement:

“The bound truss design drawings having an electronic seal and signature printed on each page have been reviewed and approved by the truss design engineer as indicated by the engineer’s seal and wet signature on this cover page. This review and approval applies solely to the attached truss design drawing pages that are bound together.”

Through the relationship established on the sealed placement plan issue, the approval of ESS came with just a bit more effort by the chapter members involved. Importantly, CalESCA will build on this success throughout the rest of California as Section 411, Title 16, Division 5 of the California Code of Regulations for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors which authorizes electronic signatures applies to the entire state. It is expected that ESS will simplify and reduce the time expended and the expense of the process. By working together, chapter members are advancing their industry and markets.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame — September/October 2003

Looking for a new way to encourage fellow manufacturers to attend your chapter meetings? How about an unconventional meeting location like Camden Yards?

For the third year in a row, the Capital Area Chapter (WTCCA) has gone to a Baltimore Orioles game in conjunction with its summer quarterly meeting. Each year, attendance has grown, and this year they even purchased enough tickets to receive free hats from the ballpark. As one chapter member remarked upon news of the free, bright orange hats—if everyone wore his hat to the game it would be reminiscent of a class field trip to the zoo when you all wore something that identified what school you attended.

Indeed, chapter meetings are not just about competitors exchanging views on pressing concerns in the marketplace. Chapter meetings are an opportunity to socialize with your peers. Let’s face it, our closest friends probably do not care about bottom chord loading or wide load permits, but your industry friends do. Fellow chapter members may be like those people you knew in high school—you might not have been close, and you probably competed in sports, academics, or even in love, but you will act like old friends at your class reunion. Friendship is based on shared experiences, and even competitors can treat each other like old friends at the end of the day.

Be it golf, fishing, or ballgames, chapter social events are a great way to connect with fellow industry members. Chapter meetings can be business and pleasure. To build camaraderie, social events are a great idea. Whether or not you have a great turnout the first year or two, give it a try. After all, the Northwest Chapter (NWTFA) just held its 20th Annual Golf Tournament, and celebrated the anniversary with a $20,000 hole-in-one contest. From free hats and big cash to industry updates and moral support, chapter social events can offer rewards in more ways than one.

Will Your State Pay for You to Use WTCA’s Truss Knowledge Online?
A Lesson from the Mid Atlantic Chapter - August 2003

Does your state have a program that will reimburse you for training costs? Chances are, it might. Under the heading of workforce education, many states have programs that pay you to train your employees. A perfect example is Pennsylvania.

The Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA) is committed to making companies across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania more competitive by updating and improving the skills of their employees to meet specific company needs. Its progressive Guaranteed Free Training Program provides qualified companies with money for training in a wide range of basic and high-tech topics.

How www.WEDnetPA.com could work for you in PA:

It could be that easy in your state too. With a little time and research, you could be educating your employees courtesy of your state.

Mold & WTCA Chapters - June/July 2003

Have your chapter members been battling mold claims? Would you like to have an action plan in place if a mold controversy develops? Do you need a set of tools that chapter members can use now or in the future? Many chapters are taking a proactive approach to mold using the tools available through WTCA.

Chapters are selecting one or all of the following options:

While individual companies can take all of the actions above, they are also discovering that their voice is much more powerful when they act as a group through their chapter. Where an individual company may be seen as protecting its own interest, a chapter is seen as representing the industry position. With a united voice, chapter members are more likely to be listened to when they assert the facts, not emotions, about mold. If you need help confronting a mold challenge, or if you want to become prepared before a mold complaint strikes your business, contact your local chapter and make sure mold is on your next meeting agenda. If you need samples of any of these documents or examples of the customized letter, simply contact WTCA staff. Together, we will meet the challenges our industry faces.

The New Chapter Teleconference - May 2003

In March, WTCA started a monthly “chapter teleconference,” and the results have been terrific! Though some callers are hesitant at first, they soon discover that this conference call format is a great way to discuss issues with fellow manufacturers. The best part—there is no lost time from work because you don’t have to travel anywhere! To participate on the teleconference, you need only stop your other activities long enough to be on the phone call too. It’s that simple.

HOW IT WORKS

1. WTCA establishes the date for members to call into a teleconference number. The target is the second Wednesday of the month, but this is adjusted when chapter meetings run concurrently. The time for the call is always 1 p.m. Eastern.
2. The agenda for the upcoming call is distributed with Chapter Focus one to two weeks before the call.
3. If you have questions about the date or subjects for the next call, contact Anna via email (chapters@sbcindustry.com), fax (608/274-3329), or phone (608/274-4849 ext. 119).
4. Join us on the call!

You should participate if you would like to:

• Discuss hot topics and issues.
• Exchange information on situations in your area.
• Receive advice, input or feedback on a problem or opportunity.
• Learn more about current WTCA activities and/or publications.
• Expand your network of friends in our association.

ALL WTCA Members are welcome on the call! This is not exclusive to chapter members.

If you have been looking for another way to network with your fellow industry professionals, this is the perfect opportunity. If you would like to request that certain topics be addressed on the agenda, just let us know. This call is by members, for members. By speaking together and sharing information, everyone will benefit.