Forging New Pathways for Tomorrow’s Leaders

Above: Erin Manfull at the FGIA Annual Conference 2026 

Associations can benefit industry professionals as they grow in their careers. This investment in the workforce is an important part of what keeps our industry strong. That is why many associations continue to forge new pathways for those who are not yet involved with the industry, but should be. Giving opportunities to these newer professionals helps them get on the track to being future industry leaders. 

Members = Benefits 

Continuing education is a critical part of having a robust workforce, and networking events provide venues for making connections. Associations offer various avenues for industry professionals to connect, learn and grow. According to the 2025 Association Member Experience Report, 19 percent of association members cited professional learning and credentialing as their primary reason for joining. This priority is validated throughout the member journey, as in-person and virtual education are consistently ranked as the top contributors to member value. 

Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) members, for example, get access to an enhanced member directory and a full technical resource center. Our members receive preferred pricing on certification and education programs, market studies, performance standards and events. Plus, FGIA members can actively participate in the development of performance standards, test methods and marketing programs within the industry. 

Seasoned Veterans + Rising Stars 

Industry stalwarts are in a unique position to be able to identify newer talent within their own organization. Maybe you know the type – they are engaged in meetings, ask great questions and care about the work of the industry. 

The new FGIA Emerging Leaders Initiative seeks these “rising stars” within our corporate member companies and gets them onboarded. Nominated individuals will be given a coupon for a complimentary FGIA professional development course. They can choose between FGIA’s Fundamentals of Fenestration course or our Fundamentals of Insulating Glass course. 

Emerging Leaders + Mentorship 

For those newer to the industry, association involvement can help you get into the room with the right people in our industry. Conferences and events provide a platform for attendees to meet industry leaders, executives, and colleagues. Attendees can engage in discussions, share experiences and learn from peers and experienced professionals. 

Along with conferences and events, FGIA provides a comprehensive platform for individuals in the fenestration and glazing industry to advance their careers through networking, education and mentorship. 

Our mentorship program intentionally matches newer professionals with seasoned veterans who share similar specialties and interests. Mentees can receive guidance on career goals, build confidence and gain insights from their mentors’ experiences. 

• Get questions answered by those with vast industry knowledge 
• Develop valuable relationships and gain a support system 
• Make connections in real life and on social media 

To find out more about the FGIA Emerging Leaders Initiative, nominate a rising star or join the mentorship program, please visit FGIAonline.org/newleaders. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter, FGIA e-News, to stay in the loop about upcoming FGIA events, recently updated and published documents, training opportunities and more.