T. Ashby Gressette, AIA, is principal and director of architecture at Stevens & Wilkinson, an architecture firm in Columbia, S.C.

Ron Stang, AIA, LEED AP, is chairman at architecture firm, Stevens & Wilkinson, based in Atlanta, Ga. He began his career working with a small firm for six years and then started his own that eventually merged with Stevens & Wilkinson.

Introducing the FlexSpray Pro 18V – the future of handheld sprayers from Titan. Built with JetForce Technology, this beast combines the power of airless and the control of HVLP into one versatile sprayer.

York Flashings announced the release of Wicked Good Flashing, a new product innovation that replaces traditional rubberized asphalt. The product is set to redefine the flashing industry by providing better puncture resistance, a watertight bond and six-month UV protection at a comparable price.

Introducing the newest category of products from Federal Brace, catering metal stud construction projects with support brackets for vanities, desks, counters and more.

With the introduction of Tectum DesignArt– Lines Finale PB ceiling and wall panels, Armstrong World Industries offers architects and designers an opportunity to deliver unique visuals created by panels providing excellent sound absorption.

Werner introduced on Feb. 5 the new Bantam Switch, the first reverse-system self-retracting lifeline, for pros working at height. The SRL transfers weight of the housing unit from the user’s back to the anchor point and lightens the load to 0 pounds.

New for fall ’24, KEEN Utility’s Overton is a versatile, throwback-inspired work shoe that is safe, comfortable and unexpected.

From comfort, fit and dexterity to protection and durability features for harsh job site conditions, each high-performance glove from Makita meets the needs of the most demanding professional.

On Sept. 4, Werner introduced the new LevelSafe Pro, the easiest and most effective way to level a ladder. Working on uneven ground is a common challenge for the industry. The new Werner LevelSafe Pro system provides an easy and precise way to level a ladder.

ClarkDietrich has introduced ProChannel Ci Cladding Support with Grip-Deck TubeSeal Technology. The new cladding support system is designed for residential and commercial applications and protects against air and water intrusion.

Following the launch of its first-of-its-kind ExoActive Exoskeleton, Festool announced on Aug. 20 its lineup of fall products that blend power, efficiency and organization. The launch includes a new cordless rotary hammer drill, the KHC 18, new energy sets and Systainers, jigsaw and oscillator saw blade sets, and limited-edition DOMINO kits.

Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, announced on Sept. 12 the launch of the new Leica iCON trades solution, which pairs the Leica iCON iCS20 and Leica iCON iCS50 sensors with industry-tailored construction layout workflows. The new solution complements the industry-leading Leica iCON build portfolio.

DAP introduced the new HD Max construction adhesive, a premium, hybrid formula with polyurethane strength that provides superior durability and powerful adhesion, even in extreme temperatures.

TYPAR is introducing the industry’s first clear acrylic flashing. This game-changing product was developed in response to evolving builders’ needs and emerging building code changes requiring better visibility of the nail and screw-fin patterns on windows during window installations and inspections.

Take the edge off your workday with the DuraBlend Edge. Crafted from rugged, full-grain leather, the waterproof work boot features Georgia Boot’s best-selling AMP Insole and DuraBlend Midsole for exceptional comfort.

Makita has an expanding dust extraction system with vacuums, accessories and attachments for use in concrete drilling, breaking, surfacing and cutting applications. Select tools and dust extractors are equipped with the Auto-start Wireless System, which utilizes Bluetooth technology for wireless power-on/off communication between an equipped tool and dust extractor.

Siplast, a leader in advanced building envelope systems, introduced the WALLcontrol Monolith VP Adhered AWB, an addition to its existing WALLcontrol air and water-resistive barrier systems portfolio. The WALLcontrol Monolith VP Adhered AWB is a self-adhered, vapor-permeable air- and water-resistive barrier.

Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced Quik Drive Project Pro, a screw-driving tool that installs on nearly any cordless drill or driver and provides the speed and convenience of auto-feed fastening for a variety of projects without the larger investment of a full-service tool.

Milwaukee Tool continues its commitment to disruptive innovation, expanding its PACKOUT Modular Storage System with eight new PACKOUT Toolbox Attachments. These new solutions securely lock onto the PACKOUT system’s metal-reinforced corners, allowing professionals to carry more and quickly access tools, parts and materials, enhancing job site productivity.

As national media interest in the riots fades, the sector needs to keep it firmly on the agenda

The organisation, which employs more than 2,500 people, will provide a single point of access for people with complex needs

Centring missions, creating space for discussion and continuing to test and learn will help every charity tailor their approach to online spaces

Dan Corry says funding mechanisms guarantee competition not collaboration, contracts promote short termism and there is a 'real absence of data'

The Prince's Trust has become The King's Trust

At New Philanthropy Capital’s annual conference, charity leaders discussed their experiences of engaging with the new government

The Lowry has dropped the definite article from its title

As Gen Z writes the marketing scripts of charities across the sector, Emily Harle looks at how organisations are tapping into viral online trends to build their brands

Table Talk Foundation’s name was deemed to be ‘too passive’

It includes a film directed by the Academy Award-winning James Marsh

Lucinda and Emily are joined by the outgoing chief of the RSPCA

Chris Sherwood says the charity’s public profile can make it feel like a ‘goldfish bowl’

The 140-year-old organisation has changed its logo and launched a new advertising campaign

The racial justice charity accepts the wording and statistics used in posts about the Chris Kaba case ‘were not as carefully expressed as they should have been’

Lucinda and Emily are joined by the outgoing chief of the RSPCA

Ian Theodoreson, who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy in 2019, wrote that he ‘had lived a good life’ in a blog post posthumously published on 27 October

Vicky Browning succeeds Ndidi Okezie, who is stepping down after five years at the charity’s helm

Strategic communications is by no means a ‘silver bullet’, but it is a vital part of addressing the challenges we face

The early-bird awards entry deadline is 9 January

The Metal Construction Association announced the 2024 MCA Design Awards winners. The MCA Design Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the metal construction industry and recognize member-companies involved in the construction of outstanding building projects that use metal in significant and innovative ways.

Blending transparency and flexibility within commercial spaces, the new Tubelite INT14 Interior Flush Glaze Framing System offers versatile design options for floor-to-ceiling room enclosures or freestanding partitions. Expanding choices for facility managers, design professionals and glazing contractors, the INT14 system provides necessary separation and prioritizes daylight, visual connection and sound reduction.

Five projects on which ATAS International products were installed have been selected as winners of the 2024 Metal Construction Association Design Awards. The MCA Design Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the metal construction industry and recognize member-companies involved in the construction of outstanding building projects that use metal in significant and innovative ways.

METALCON is hosting a series of insightful roundtable discussions, each facilitated by an expert member of the Metal Construction Association, at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, at The Exchange area in the exhibit hall.

On Sept. 6, Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc., the parent company of Simpson Strong-Tie, rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange in celebration of the company’s 30th anniversary as a publicly listed company.

For the first time, the Metal Construction Association’s annual MCA Market Study is available for purchase by non-members. Previously only available to members, it is the most comprehensive study of the metal construction industry.

ClarkDietrich announced on Oct. 1 the acquisition of Studs Unlimited, effective immediately.

S-5!, together with National Women in Roofing, is sponsoring a new scholarship program to empower women who wish to pursue educational opportunities in the skilled trades. The initiative aims to support women in their journey toward successful careers in the trades and contributing to the overall advancement of the construction industry.

Technical Glass Products has a new architectural services manager role to support glazing design along the East Coast of the U.S. and in the Ontario and Quebec territories of Canada.

The Metal Construction Association is reinvigorating its MCM System Fabricator Certification program. Through the program, companies that fabricate metal composite material panels for architectural use can earn certification by meeting requirements for experience, services, MCM system performance and financial strength.

The SFIA’s well-known executive director has retired. We were fortunate to speak with him as he exited his role.