METALCON, the annual tradeshow highlighting the application of metal in design and construction, announced the launch of “The Design District” at this year’s event in Atlanta, beginning Oct. 30-Nov. 1, which event organizers describe as a way for design professionals and engineers to immerse themselves in metal design and construction.

What’s Happening at The Design District?

Sponsored by PPG and produced in partnership with AEC Daily, organizers say The Design District will bring together thought leaders, award-winning architects and industry experts. Attendees will delve into the applications of metal in design, discover the latest innovations and metal products available for building envelopes and interiors, and earn up to 15 AIA Learning Units (Lus) and 12 Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) credits.

Pre-Show Workshop

Starting at 8.30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 29, the Mergers & Acquisitions Essentials Workshop, presented by PSMJ Resources, offers strategies for finding the right M&A counterparty, structuring win-win transactions, assessing valuations, successfully integrating, and more.

Morning Kick-Off Sessions

At 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30, Crystal Egger, president of Monarch Weather & Climate Intelligence, joins Kathryn Prociv, executive vice president, to present “Building Smarter: The Impact of our Changing Weather & Climate on Construction.” 

They will explore the role of accurate weather data and communication in optimizing project timelines, enhancing safety and improving materials performance.

 At 8 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, attendees have the choice of two-morning kick-off sessions: Steve Tatro, regional manager of architectural sales southwest of Mitsubishi Chemical America, will present “Metal Composite Material Building Code Fire Requirements,” offering an overview of various metal composite materials and associated attachment systems. An in-depth review of relevant International Building Code requirements will be included. 

Additionally, Tony Barnes of Crowe LLP will explore the world of Artificial Intelligence and how to make it work for the metal construction industry in “The New World of Metal: How Technology and AI Can Affect the Metal Industries.”

Exclusive Education Topics for The Design District

• Attendees can earn nearly a year’s worth of continuing education credits — all in one place: 
• Air Barriers, Vapor Retarders and Water Resistive Barriers Are the Same—No?
• Artificial Intelligence in the AEC Industry
• Stay Ahead of the Color Curve: Leveraging Global Color Trends to Elevate Design & Stand Apart
• Metal Roofs Architectural Restoration / Preservation
• Today’s Architectural Metal Panels for Interior Applications  
• Metal Composite Material (MCM) Building Code Fire Requirements
• Barndominiums: Solutions for Modern Problems, Inspired by Historic Design
• The Acoustics of Metal Buildings
• Holding Strength Comparison Between Short Rail & Direct Attachments on Racking Systems on Metal Rooftops for Solar Applications 

Exploring Atlanta:

A Walking Tour of Metal Cladding and Panels

Join Zeke Miller, president of MillerClapperton, a national fabricator and regional installer of architectural cladding systems, as he leads a complimentary, scenic walk around Downtown Atlanta’s Centennial Park District to view several high-profile metal panel projects. 

The tour will highlight prominent sites, including the College Football Hall of Fame, the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium and more. This informal and educational tour is a chance to see some of the area’s most notable and iconic projects using metal panels and cladding through the eyes of an expert. Limited to 50 attendees; pre-registration required.

• 3-Day Access to the Exhibit Hall: Explore 250 exhibits showcasing innovations in metal construction and connect with experts from the world’s leading manufacturers of metal components.
• Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Located on the show floor and sponsored by PPG, The Design District offers a relaxing lounge where attendees can “recharge and network with colleagues.” Attend the Welcome Party, 19th Hole Reception, speed networking and more.

“We are delighted to introduce The Design District @METALCON this year,” said Judy Geller, METALCON vice president of Tradeshows. “This … addition will deliver … educational programming and showcase cutting-edge products, all tailored specifically for architectural design professionals and engineers.”

For more information, visit metalcon.com.