From Jobsite to Boardroom: Austin OQM Drives the Industry Forward

SBCA’s first Open Quarterly Meeting (OQM) of 2026 in Austin, TX. delivered a productive week ofeducation, jobsite insights, and strategic association business, bringing together industry professionals for timely discussion and peer connection.

Day 1 Focused on Safety, Quality, and Technology

In a series of well-attended opening sessions, attendees gained insight into a range of topics, from a new industry safety program to quality control management. The sessions reinforced the ongoing importance of consistency, best practices, and operational discipline across the structural building components industry.

University of Texas Professor Chris Rausch delivered an engaging presentation on the growing role of technology on today’s jobsites and how emerging tools may continue to transform construction workflows in the years ahead.

The first day concluded with a networking happy hour, giving attendees the opportunity to continue conversations and strengthen industry relationships outside the meeting room.

Jobsite Tour Highlighted Texas Building Activity

Day 2 began with a jobsite tour featuring six homes in various stages of framing and MEP installation, offering attendees a firsthand look at the Texas build environment.

Following the tour, the builder, Taylor Morrison, described their journey toward increased use of manufactured components. Followed by the component manufacturer and framer, Buffalo Framing and Truss, sharing their perspectives on what it took to successfully convert the builder to components, offering practical insight for attendees navigating similar transitions.

Providing broader market context, an economist from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) presented their latest 2026 housing outlook. Attendees also participated in roundtable discussions and committee meetings covering association business to workforce-related topics, including immigration impacts and training strategies. The day concluded with a group dinner at the Austin staple Cooper’s Pit BBQ, where networking and peer exchange continued while enjoying some Texas BBQ. 

Board Advanced Association Business

The week concluded with SBCA’s Board of Directors meeting, which was both informative and productive.

During the meeting, the Board advanced governance of the SBC PAC and approved several leadership updates, which included Rachel Hoops with Alpine, an ITW Company, concluding her Associate Boardterm. SBCA is grateful for all of Rachel’s dedication and passion for the association and the industry and looks forward to her continued involvement with the association. Additionally, the following members were elected to three-year Component Manufacturer terms. Congratulations to the below; SBCA is excited to work with them and have their expertise and insights added to the Board of Directors:

• Porter Clark, Hiwassee Building Supply
• Scott Schulte, Builders FirstSource
• Adam Finkenhoefer, 84 Lumber

There were also several staff updates announced, with the hiring of Kevin Dawson, Controller, and Samantha Leleux, Digital Platforms Coordinator; in addition to expanded leadership responsibilities and alignment of staff roles to continue serving the association and its membership as best as possible, including Abby Langenberg as Director of Business Development and Membership Engagement; Sean Shields as Director of Strategic Partnerships; and Christine Wagner as Director of Marketing and Communications.

Looking Ahead

The Austin OQM set a strong tone for 2026, delivering actionable insights, meaningful peer exchange, and important association business.

Thank you to everyone who joined SBCA in Austin and contributed to a productive and engaging week. The active participation of members and industry partners continues to drive the success of SBCA’s in-person meetings. SBCA also extends its appreciation to the SBCA OQM and Happy Hour sponsors for their support, and to the speakers and jobsite hosts for sharing valuable insight throughout the program.

Those who missed the Austin meeting are encouraged to explore upcoming Open Quarterly Meetings and events at: https://www.sbcacomponents.com/events/.

Thank you to our Sponsors!

Gold

4Ward Solutions Group
Alpine, an ITW Company
Eagle Metal
Home Innovation Research Labs
Hundegger
MiTek
Q4US
Randek SCM
Senco
Simpson Strong-Tie

Silver

P.E. Robbins, PE Engineering

Happy Hour

Lumber Insurance Services

Jobsite Tour

Taylor Morrison
Buffalo Framing & Truss
Paslode (PPE sponsor)