The Design District at METALCON offers exclusive programming and unmatched opportunities for design professionals and engineers to immerse themselves in the world of metal design and construction at this year’s show in Atlanta from Wednesday, Oct. 30 to Friday, Nov. 1.

Featuring specialized education sessions, focused networking opportunities and a showcase of cutting-edge innovations, these tailored offerings are designed to elevate expertise and ignite innovative approaches to architectural design with metal.

 What’s Happening at The Design District?

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

Pre-Show Workshop

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

Morning Kick-Off Sessions

On Wednesday, Oct. 30 beginning at 8.00 a.m., Crystal Egger, president of Monarch Weather & Climate Intelligence joins Kathryn Prociv, the company’s executive vice president to present Building Smarter: The Impact of our Changing Weather & Climate on Construction. Together, they will explore the critical role of accurate weather data and communication to optimize project timelines, enhance safety and improve materials performance.

The following day, at the same time, attendees have the choice of two-morning kick-off sessions beginning at 8.00 a.m. Steve Tatro, regional manager of architectural sales southwest of Mitsubishi Chemical America, will present Metal Composite Material (MCM) Building Code Fire Requirements, providing an overview of various metal composite materials and associated attachment systems, and an in-depth review of the relevant International Building Code. 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 – Offering education sessions specific to design professionals and engineers, attendees can earn nearly a year’s worth of continuing education credits (CEUs)—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 Rooftop 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 several 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 – Experience a unique opportunity to explore 250 exhibits showcasing groundbreaking 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 area where you 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 exciting new addition will deliver a range of educational programming and showcase cutting-edge products, all tailored specifically for architectural design professionals and engineers.”