Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope Renews Strategic Partnership With AIA for 2026
Dallas, TX – Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, Inc. (OBE), a leading North American supplier of architectural glass, metal, and hardware, proudly announces the renewal of its strategic partnership with the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Now in its eighth year, this collaboration underscores OBE’s pioneering commitment as the first building products manufacturer to establish a formal strategic partnership with the AIA.
Since the inception of this alliance, OBE has maintained a proactive approach to supporting architects and the broader AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) community, providing critical technical expertise and high-performance solutions designed to address complex building envelope challenges.
A Partnership Built on Innovation and Expertise
The renewed partnership between OBE and the AIA goes far beyond traditional collaboration. It reflects a shared dedication to advancing architectural design through knowledge-sharing, innovation, and hands-on support for design teams. OBE brings its expertise in architectural glass, glazing, and hardware to the forefront, offering architects the tools and insights necessary to realize ambitious, high-performance building designs.
Through this partnership, OBE serves as an extension of architectural teams, providing technical guidance, research-backed solutions, and access to industry-leading resources. The company’s portfolio, which includes notable brands such as CRL and Graham Architectural Products, positions OBE as a one-stop resource for high-quality building envelope solutions.
Driving the Future of Architectural Education
A core element of the OBE-AIA partnership is a shared commitment to education. The collaboration enables architects to access a wide range of AIA-certified continuing education courses focused on key areas such as high-performance glazing, innovative hardware solutions, and industry safety standards. These courses, HSW (Health, Safety, and Welfare) accredited, provide design professionals with the knowledge required to navigate evolving building codes and complex project requirements.
By actively participating in educational initiatives, OBE not only supports professional development but also ensures that architects remain equipped with the latest technical insights and industry best practices. This commitment helps the AEC community consistently deliver projects that meet both aesthetic and performance standards.
Collaborative Research for Data-Driven Design
OBE and the AIA work together on joint research initiatives that produce valuable, data-driven insights for architects and the wider construction industry. These efforts focus on key topics such as sustainability, emerging building trends, and evolving codes and standards.
By leveraging real-world data and research, architects can make informed decisions about materials, building systems, and design strategies. This approach ensures that projects are not only visually compelling but also technically optimized for performance, longevity, and energy efficiency.
Direct Technical Support for Architects
Oldcastle One of the most tangible benefits of the partnership is OBE’s provision of direct technical support. Dedicated teams are available to assist architectural firms with specification writing, code compliance, and custom engineering solutions tailored to specific project requirements.
Whether firms require guidance on glazing systems, structural hardware, or high-performance window solutions, OBE’s experts are equipped to provide timely and accurate technical support. This level of engagement allows architects to overcome design challenges efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.
Innovation Lab Collaboration
OBE’s commitment to innovation extends to collaborative opportunities in product development. Through its Innovation Lab, architects can actively participate in refining and testing new products, ensuring that emerging building systems meet practical design and performance requirements.
This collaborative approach not only strengthens OBE’s product offerings but also provides architects with early access to innovative solutions, allowing them to incorporate cutting-edge materials and systems into their projects.
Industry Advocacy and Thought Leadership
Beyond education and technical support, OBE engages actively in industry advocacy. The company participates in committees and forums addressing regulatory, safety, and technical challenges shaping the future of the construction industry.
By contributing to policy discussions and providing technical expertise, OBE helps shape industry standards and best practices, ensuring that architects have the tools and guidance necessary to deliver transformative projects safely and efficiently.
Executive Perspectives
“Our long-standing partnership with the AIA and its members is about active stewardship of the building industry,” said Mark Adamson, CEO of Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope. “By working side-by-side with architects on research, product design, and technical education, we co-develop solutions that directly address the complexities of modern design. As the industry evolves, our goal is to remain a constant ally—providing the technical expertise and innovation that helps the entire AEC community move forward together.”
Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP, EVP/Chief Executive Officer of AIA, added, “We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, a trusted leader in the design and construction market. Their commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and engagement aligns perfectly with our mission to support architects navigating the complex challenges of transformative projects. By leveraging their expertise in high-performance building systems, OBE enhances collaboration within design teams—empowering our members to deliver innovative, high-performing projects.”
A Comprehensive Resource for the AEC Community
Through this partnership, OBE and its leading brands, including CRL and Graham Architectural Products, offer architects and design professionals a robust set of technical resources:
- AIA-Certified Continuing Education: Extensive HSW-credited courses on high-performance glazing, hardware innovations, and safety standards.
- Joint Industry Research: Data-driven insights on sustainability, codes, and emerging building trends.
- Direct Architectural Support: Dedicated technical teams assisting with specification writing, code compliance, and engineering solutions.
- Innovation Lab Collaboration: Hands-on participation in product development to refine building systems for real-world applications.
- Industry Advocacy: Engagement in committees and forums shaping the future of architecture and construction.
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