Editor's Message: Built on Connections
Coming Together to Move the Industry Forward
Welcome to the first issue of SBCA Magazine of 2026. As we look ahead to a new year of innovation, collaboration, and continued growth in our industry, this issue provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible momentum that carried us into January. There is no better example of that energy than the week we spent together in Omaha this past fall.
SBCA’s BCMC & Framer Summit 2025 is officially in the books, and looking back, it is clear the event left a lasting impact on our industry. More than 1,700 attendees and exhibitors gathered at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, NE, to explore the largest show floor since 2007, covering nearly 72,000 square feet and featuring 128 exhibitors. With more than 40 collective hours of networking, idea sharing, socializing, and learning, it was an incredible week of growth for the structural building components manufacturing and framing industry.
This issue is all about BCMC and the many elements that made the week such a success. From a full day of education that allowed members to dive deeply into key industry topics to the multitude of networking opportunities and activities throughout the show, the week in Omaha showcased the strength, engagement, and camaraderie of our community. The sessions covered a wide range of industry topics, including safety culture, workforce development, production practices, digital tools, and business strategy. The peer-to-peer learning that took place throughout the day and across the show floor reflected the collaborative spirit that continues to define our association.
Another highlight of the week was the SBCA Honors Dinner, where the association celebrated not only its and the industry’s progress, but also the people who helped make that progress possible with the annual SBCA Industry Awards. It was a time to come together and recognize the service, commitment, and contributions that strengthen our entire association.
One meaningful moment during BCMC was the ceremonial gavel handoff, which honored the close of one chapter of leadership and the start of another. After two years of dedicated service, Jeff Taake concluded his term as SBCA President and formally passed the gavel to Larry G. Dix II. This transition highlighted both the strength of SBCA’s volunteer-driven leadership and the continuity that guides our association forward. Moments like this serve as a reminder of the commitment, stewardship, and shared purpose that shape SBCA’s direction year after year.
The SBCA Foundation also had an extraordinary week. Throughout BCMC, the Foundation launched a matching fundraiser designed to amplify individual donations. Anyone contributing $25 or more received a commemorative pin in recognition of their generosity. The goal was to raise $20,000 in individual gifts, and thanks to the overwhelming support of attendees and matching partners, that goal was surpassed nearly threefold. In total, $57,501 was raised to further the Foundation’s mission. A heartfelt thank you goes to every donor, along with our matching partners: MiTek; Paragon; Alpine, an ITW Company; Eagle Metal; Simpson Strong-Tie; Q4US; LMC; JAX the Wood Retriever; Birmingham International; Blue Sky Tie; American International Forest Products; Wescana; Sawtooth Robotics; and Enventek.
As you explore this first issue of 2026, I hope you enjoy revisiting the highlights from Omaha and feel as energized as we are about the year ahead. Thank you for your continued engagement with SBCA and commitment to elevating our industry. Here’s to a successful, productive, and innovative year.
Christine Wagner, Managing Editor