Editor's Message: Driving Change Through Collaboration
BCMC Brings the Industry Together to Connect, Learn, and Explore
Welcome to 2025 and thank you all for making 2024 an unforgettable year! This past year’s BCMC was nothing short of tremendous, and we are thrilled to look back on the highlights that made it such a resounding success. From the inspiring and informational speakers who shared valuable insights and forecasts to the vibrant show floor and engaging events like the 5K run, Women in Construction breakfast, and roundtables, BCMC was an event to remember.
The energy was high throughout the week of the show, with numerous networking opportunities, education sessions, and activities for all attendees. A total of 1,857 attendees and exhibitor personnel checked in, representing 91.2% of registered participants, with an additional 170 individuals registering onsite. The 65,000+ square feet of show floor space, housing 120+ exhibitors, was bustling. Held at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, it provided a bright, open atmosphere for attendees and exhibitors alike, setting the scene for ample opportunities to network, learn, and engage with others in the industry.
Of the 1,068 attendees, more than half were key decision-makers: 27% were President/CEO/Owner, 18% were Senior Level/Vice President, 39% were Manager/Supervisor, and 16% were Tech/Manufacturing/Admin. BCMC is the place to not only network and discover innovations but also to make deals and purchase equipment directly from the show floor. It is a one-stop shop for the component manufacturing and framing industries – BCMC is where business gets done.
The exhibit hall showcased the latest technologies, tools, and innovations shaping the future of the industry. Attendees had the chance to interact with these advancements and gain practical insights that they could take back to their own operations. Speaking directly with exhibitors provided new perspectives and solutions, making the experience even more valuable.
In addition to the show floor, BCMC & Framer Summit offered three days of education sessions including both supplier-led and peer-led sessions focused on topics relevant to both component manufacturers and framers. Be sure to check out the next issue of NFC’s magazine, Framing Today, for recaps on the framer sessions.
Beyond the educational offerings and show floor, BCMC was packed with a variety of fun activities. The Joe & Adam Kannapell 5K Run/Walk, which had over 40 participants, took place along the Milwaukee Riverwalk Trail. The annual bike ride and golf tournament also brought people together for friendly competition and a chance to unwind.
The show didn’t stop there. Industry and framer roundtables on topics ranging from operational efficiencies, IT, and risk mitigation to automation/mechanization, safety, and labor challenges allowed participants to share experiences and forge meaningful connections. These informal settings offered impactful insights into other areas of the market that aren’t as easy to obtain outside of an event like this.
BCMC officially kicked off on Wednesday with its keynote speaker, the People’s Shark, Daymond John. Daymond shared his journey to success, working his way to the top through life experiences and lessons learned along the way. His message of perseverance and resilience energized the 770+ attendees. Thursday morning featured an economic forecast provided by Todd Tomalak, Principal of Building Products Research and Advisory with Zonda. Todd’s thoughtful outlook on the industry gave insight into and hope for the future to over 600 attendees.
The show wrapped up with the Industry Celebration, featuring a Pinewood Derby tournament, pickleball and bean bag toss tournaments, raffles, giveaways, and the announcement of the SBCA Innovation Grant People’s Choice Solution for 2024 (see more on pages 20-22).
The success of BCMC each year is a testament to the dedication and contributions of everyone involved, from attendees and exhibitors to staff and members. We are excited to build on this momentum as we move forward into 2025, and continue to offer tremendous value to the industry. Stay tuned throughout the year as we announce awesome opportunities for education, sponsoring, exhibiting, and more.
Thank you for your continued membership and ongoing support of SBCA and for making BCMC the incredible event that it is. Enjoy this issue highlighting BCMC 2024!
Christine Wagner, Managing Editor