ABAA

ABAA, BEC Minnesota & CSI Minneapolis-St. Paul Full Day Symposium
2026-03-10 09:30 - 16:00 (America/Detroit) | Boy Scouts of America Base Camp, 6202 Bloomington Rd, Fort Snelling, MN, 55111, United States
ABAA in partnership with BEC Minnesota and CSI Minneapolis – St. Paul Full Day Air Barrier Symposium
Earn up to 4.0 LU/HSW
Register Today
Program Agenda
8:00 – 8:30 AM
Registration, Breakfast, & Networking
8:30 – 9:30 AM
Building Enclosure Architectural Details: Conveying Construction Drawing Clarity, 1.0 LU/HSW
Melissa Payne, BECxP, CxA+BE, CDT, BE Consulting – Forensics, Midwest Enclosure Consulting
Incomplete or unclear drawings often lead to performance issues in the field. This session reviews building science fundamentals and shows how to improve detail clarity at foundations, roofs, windows, penetrations, and material transitions to support durable, energy-efficient enclosures.
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Self-Adhered Membrane Applications: What Does It Really Mean to Stick? 1.0 LU/HSW
Cody Shelner, PE, Head of Marketing, Air & Waterproofing, tesa Air and Waterproofing
Self-adhered membranes are popular for their ease of use and reliability in air and moisture control. However, performance depends on more than peel adhesion. This session reviews the forces these membranes must resist—wind, stack effect, and pressurization—and explores how to properly evaluate long-term durability under real conditions. Learn why comprehensive performance testing is essential when specifying or inspecting these systems.
11:30AM – 12:30 PM
Lunch
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Locating That Elusive Point of Condensation: A Review of Hygrothermal Evaluation Fundamentals, 1.0 LU/HSW
Andrew Dunlap, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Vice President | Building Technology Studio Leader, SmithGroup
This presentation will review the various types of Hygrothermal modeling tools available to assistance designers in developing a building’s exterior enclosure. Variables such as the interior and exterior climate (temperature/humidity), material permeance, wall assembly types, and transitions between adjacent construction will be explored. Understanding the impact of the decision to use various modeling techniques such as 1D/2D/3D and transient versus static modeling will be discussed.
1:30 – 2:00 PM
Break
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Failure is Not an Option: Air Barrier Continuity Strategies for Storefront & Curtain Wall Systems, 1.0 LU/HSW
Andrew Dunlap, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Vice President | Building Technology Studio Leader, SmithGroup
Wall-to-window transitions are a leading source of enclosure failures. This session provides a step-by-step look at sequencing and connection details, supported by real-world photos, to ensure airtight, watertight, and thermally protected assemblies.
3:00 PM
Teardown & Adjourn
Registration Fees:

BEC & CSI Members: $50
Non-members: $75

Sponsorships Contact:
Tamara Foncerrada / tamara@airbarrier.org
Venue:
Boy Scouts of America Base Camp
6202 Bloomington Rd.
Fort Snelling, MN 55111

ABAA Jury of Fellows Meeting - CANCELLED
2026-03-10 12:00 - 13:00
Conference Call
All times shown are in Eastern Time Zones

ABAA Contractors Committee Meeting
2026-03-10 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-10 10:00 - 11:00

Elevating Enclosure Performance: Optimizing Continuous Insulation for Thermal Efficiency, Durability, and Safety 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-03-12 13:00 - 14:00
Elevating Enclosure Performance: Optimizing Continuous Insulation for Thermal Efficiency, Durability, and Safety
This webinar explores how strategic continuous insulation (CI) choices can alleviate pressures on building enclosures and elevate building envelope performance, sustainability, durability, and life safety. Attendees will gain insights into NFPA 285 compliance, the role of CI in rainscreen systems, and key considerations behind insulation material selection. The course highlights key attributes for comparing insulation types—such as R-value, thickness, installation requirements, and environmental impact—and suggests design opportunities using higher-performance insulation products. Through real-world assemblies and best practices, participants will learn how to simplify insulation choices across multiple applications to meet evolving codes, optimize wall assemblies, reduce thermal bridging, and even reclaim interior square footage. Discover how doing more with less supports design efficiency and construction practicality.
Learning Objectives:

Identify how insulation selection impacts NFPA 285 compliance and understand how different assemblies perform with various continuous insulation materials under varying environmental pressures.
Evaluate sustainability attributes, installation efficiencies, and design flexibility of continuous insulation types to maximize thermal performance and minimize installation complexity.
Explore rainscreen applications and determine critical design and installation considerations for effectively integrating continuous insulation across varied enclosure types.
Examine how high R-value insulation can reduce wall thickness, simplify attachment systems, and reclaim usable space within building envelopes.

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Lance Williams, Architectural Sales Manager, Atlas Roofing
Lance Williams is an Architectural Sales Manager focused on how today’s enclosure choices shape tomorrow’s buildings. Drawing on more than 20 years in commercial walls and continuous insulation, he brings a long-view perspective on performance, risk, and carbon grounded in building science and real-world application realities. He’s known for framing complex envelope decisions in ways that resonate with owners, designers, and builders alike.

ABAA ASI Ad Hoc Group Meeting
2026-03-13 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-20 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-27 11:00 - 12:00

ABAA Conference Committee Meeting
2026-03-16 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-13 14:00 - 15:00

Online Self-Adhered & Fluid Applied Installer Certification Training Course
2026-03-17 10:00 - 2026-03-19 16:30
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026
Register and Pay Online
Online ABAA Training course
Physical installer manuals will be sent out. Those who register early will have a better chance of receiving their manual prior to the start of training. Having the manual for the online training modules is not required, but highly recommended to have before writing the exam.

DESCRIPTION:
This course is designed to teach experienced installers how to create an Air Barrier using Self-Adhered and Fluid Applied materials. This course includes instruction on everything from selecting proper materials, substrate preparation, application technology and troubleshooting.
More Information

Not an Installer?
ABAA courses are open to everyone and are a great training opportunity for all, including General Contractors, Suppliers, Manufacturers sales rep, Architectural Reps, and anyone in the construction industry. There is NO experience needed to attend one of our great training courses.

Interested in Certification?
Self-Adhered and Fluid Applied installer training is designed to teach experienced installers how to create an Air Barrier using Self Adhered and Fluid Applied materials. This course includes instruction on everything from selecting proper materials, substrate preparation, application technology, troubleshooting and hands-on training.
For certification purposes, a minimum of 3000 hours of work experience either directly with air barriers or in applicable related trade experience is required.
For companies seeking to become ABAA Accredited Contractor, it is ABAA policy that each company has at least 1 person trained in an ABAA Installer Training Course and certified as an ABAA Level 3 Installer, and at least 1 person trained in the Quality Assurance Program Administrator Course.

Questions?
Please email us at training@airbarrier.org
See you there!
Register and Pay Online
COURSE BEGINS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2026 AT 10:00AM ET. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION EMAIL WITHIN 3 BUSINESS DAYS OF REGISTERING, PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY.
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026

ABAA Codes Task Group Meeting
2026-03-17 11:00 - 12:00

Connecting the Dots: Air Barrier Connections 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-03-19 13:00 - 14:00
Connecting the Dots: Air Barrier Connections
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and this principle is equally applicable to air barriers. For an air barrier to function effectively, it must be continuous. This is why the design process is often described by the adage, “the pencil must not leave the paper.” This program will focus on the critical transitions between materials and guide you through the key considerations you’ll encounter when designing an air barrier system. Proper control and management of air and water are essential for the creation of durable, healthy buildings.
Learning Objectives:

Become aware of the compatibility issues between the building enclosure’s air barrier components
Review and discuss the areas with the highest potential for air and water issues
Demonstrate ways to reduce the risk of water and air infiltration at transitions
Understand how the air barrier components transition

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Meagan Elfert, CDT, MBA, Vice President, York Flashings
With over a decade of dedicated service at York Flashings, Meagan Elfert, CDT, MBA, CBS currently serves as Vice President, bringing strategic leadership and a results-driven approach to York. She manages York’s sales team across all regions of the USA, ensuring that York remains a leader in the building products industry and reinforcing York’s reputation for quality and innovation. Meagan gives presentations on flashing and transition compatibility, sustainability, and performance to the AEC community across the country. She also provides educational sessions for contractors and performs job site visits to bring installers the latest technology and best flashing practices.

SprayFoam Expo 2026
2026-03-22 09:00 - 2026-03-26 02:00
ABAA will be at the 2026 SPFA SprayFoam Expo from March 22-25, 2026! Come by and visit us at booth 4 tto connect with our team, learn more about our training and certification programs, and talk all things air barriers and spray foam.
Learn More about 2026 SPFA SprayFoam Expo

Symposium on Building Envelope Air Tightness: Design Strategies, Testing and Impacts
2026-03-22 09:30 - 2026-03-23 17:40
Symposium on Building Envelope Air Tightness: Design Strategies, Testing, and Impacts
(In-person only event)
Date: March 22, 2026 – March 23, 2026
Event Location: Hyatt Regency Dallas, Dallas, Texas, United States
Organized by: ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings
View the technical program Multiple ABAA members & Staff Presenting
Register Here

ABAA Contractor Webinar: Flashings 101
2026-03-25 11:00 - 12:00
This presentation will cover a detailed explanation of various types of flashings used in buildings, including the challenges and solutions facing through wall flashings. It will include a thorough description of the characteristics of several types of membranes, emphasize the importance of compatibility, and review proper installation techniques.
Learning objectives

Define the attributes of a variety of flashing materials and best practices for installation
Understand the compatibility between flashings and other wall components
Understand how to design a resilient and durable flashing system that will minimize lifecycle costs
Explain the performance criteria used to specify through wall flashings and transition membranes

This webinar is exclusive to the ABAA contractor members. Please reach out to lhardman@airbarrier.org to register.

ABAA Marketing Committee Meeting
2026-03-25 14:00 - 15:00

Above-Grade to Below-Grade Continuity: Applications, Performance, and Details 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-03-26 13:00 - 14:00
Above-Grade to Below-Grade Continuity: Applications, Performance, and Details
In the world of high-performance building enclosures, the transition from above-grade wall systems to below-grade waterproofing continuity requires more than just high-quality products; it demands a sophisticated understanding of how systems interact across disparate assemblies. This technical webinar dives deep into the “gap” that often exists between the architectural facade and the foundation. We will explore the fundamental criteria for whole-building airtightness and define the specific challenges of various enclosure types, occupancies, and design criteria. Participants will gain a comprehensive overview of modern waterproofing technologies, comparing liquid-applied, self-adhered, and sheet membranes. The session will contrast vertical and horizontal applications, as well as the unique detailing requirements for pre-applied vs. post-applied systems. Through a series of detailed transition scenarios, including above-grade walls to below-grade footings and horizontal plaza waterproofing. Beyond the technical drawings, we will discuss the “human” side of building science: specifying for success. We will cover how to eliminate scope gaps and foster essential coordination between designers, manufacturers, and contractors to ensure a seamless, high-performance building enclosure.
Learning Objectives:

Analyze the critical role of whole-building enclosure continuity for building performance.
Identify appropriate waterproofing technologies for various above- and below-grade scenarios.
Apply robust detailing strategies for transitions between above-grade and below-grade systems
Develop clear specifications that facilitate coordination and eliminate technical gaps.

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Benjamin Meyer, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Building Enclosure Business Director, Siplast
Benjamin Meyer is the Building Enclosure Business Director with Siplast. Previous experience includes: enclosure consultant principal, technical management for enclosure products, architecture, real-estate development and construction management. Serves as ASHRAE 90.1 Envelope Chair and Full Voting Member, Director of ABAA Standards Institute, and past LEED Technical Committee Member.

Herman Lopez, BE Business Development Manager, Siplast
Herman Lopez is the Building Enclosure Sales Manager for Siplast. His previous experience includes National Commercial and Multifamily Account Manager for DuPont Building Performance Solutions and Director of Specifications for Tamlyn Products. Herman has over 25 years of experience selling building enclosure products and other construction-related materials used in the residential, multi-family, and commercial construction industries.

Warmer, Wetter and Winder: Future Proofing Your Building Enclosure for Extreme Weather 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-04-02 13:00 - 14:00
Warmer, Wetter and Winder: Future Proofing Your Building Enclosure for Extreme Weather
Building enclosure design has always been driven in part by the ability to moderate the outdoor environmental conditions and maintain an operational indoor environment. The demand on building enclosures is evolving rapidly as changing climatic conditions require the design to mitigate more intense weather events. Climate variables such as increased rainfall, rising or falling temperatures, more extreme winds, or more frequent intense storms can impact building enclosure design in different ways and require specific design strategies to reliably perform during extreme weather. Incorporating resiliency measures can help ensure buildings maintain their functional use and prevent losses during utility outages.
This presentation will begin with an overview of climate forecasting and adapting the project requirements to the future needs of various building types. The discussion will focus on the implementation of specific construction approaches from schematic design through construction and integration. Each approach will be considered with respect to reducing operational energy use through strategies such as increased insulation, increased air tightness, and optimal daylight design. We will investigate enclosure assemblies that may have performed adequately in the past but in a changing climate no longer provide adequate control. We will investigate building enclosure assembly selection to prioritize increased resiliency and durability, including redundant passive systems. Reuse and adaptation of the existing building stock will be investigated. Finally, the design approach must consider the ability to maintain comfortable or operable interior conditions during catastrophic events.
Learning Objectives:

Identify changing climatic conditions that influence enclosure design such as increased wetting, changing vapor diffusion, shifting heating/cooling loads, and increased wind loads.
Understand how a changing climate can influence criteria for the overall building design such as wind funneling, pedestrian comfort, snow drifting, stack effect, flooding, and ice/snow accumulation.
Prioritize enclosure design strategies for durability, reduced maintenance, reuse, and resiliency
Investigate how previously successful enclosure assemblies may no longer perform adequately due to climate change.

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David Altenhofen, FAIA, Senior Technical Director, RWDI
David W. Altenhofen, FAIA is a Senior Technical Director for the Building Enclosure Practice of RWDI, a world-wide consultancy focusing on scientifically improving how buildings perform in their exact environment. David applies his 40 years of experience providing technical advice and quality assurance to a team of consultants bettering the building enclosure for a wide variety of projects. He has been involved in leadership roles in building enclosure performance for more than 20 years as a Principle within large architecture firms. David is active in the industry, serving on many local and national committees including past National Chair of the Building Enclosure Council and the ABAA Board. David worked on the NIBS committee to publish Guideline 3 for Building Enclosure Commissioning, authoring the chapter on Design Phase. He is past chair of the AIA Knowledge Community for Building Performance and was authored the shell chapter of the 11th edition of Architectural Graphic Standards. He has been widely published and presents frequently, including at multiple national AIA conventions, ABAA conferences, local BECs , universities and as a part of the RWDI educational symposiums.

Online Self-Adhered & Fluid Applied Installer Certification Training Course
2026-04-07 10:00 - 2026-04-09 16:30
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026
Register and Pay Online
Online ABAA Training course
Physical installer manuals will be sent out. Those who register early will have a better chance of receiving their manual prior to the start of training. Having the manual for the online training modules is not required, but highly recommended to have before writing the exam.

DESCRIPTION:
This course is designed to teach experienced installers how to create an Air Barrier using Self-Adhered and Fluid Applied materials. This course includes instruction on everything from selecting proper materials, substrate preparation, application technology and troubleshooting.
More Information

Not an Installer?
ABAA courses are open to everyone and are a great training opportunity for all, including General Contractors, Suppliers, Manufacturers sales rep, Architectural Reps, and anyone in the construction industry. There is NO experience needed to attend one of our great training courses.

Interested in Certification?
Self-Adhered and Fluid Applied installer training is designed to teach experienced installers how to create an Air Barrier using Self Adhered and Fluid Applied materials. This course includes instruction on everything from selecting proper materials, substrate preparation, application technology, troubleshooting and hands-on training.
For certification purposes, a minimum of 3000 hours of work experience either directly with air barriers or in applicable related trade experience is required.
For companies seeking to become ABAA Accredited Contractor, it is ABAA policy that each company has at least 1 person trained in an ABAA Installer Training Course and certified as an ABAA Level 3 Installer, and at least 1 person trained in the Quality Assurance Program Administrator Course.

Questions?
Please email us at training@airbarrier.org
See you there!
Register and Pay Online
COURSE BEGINS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026 AT 10:00AM ET. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION EMAIL WITHIN 3 BUSINESS DAYS OF REGISTERING, PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY.
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026

ABAA QAP Committee Meeting
2026-04-08 11:00 - 12:00

BEC Greater Detroit Presents ABAA Day Detroit 2026
2026-04-09 08:30 - 16:00
Earn up to 4.5 LU/HSW
Register Today

Program Agenda
8:30-8:45AM Check-in, Continental Breakfast, Sponsor Displays & Networking
8:45-9:00AM Opening Remarks
9:00-10:00AM
Airtightness Testing Goes Extreme 1.0 LU/HSW
Pamela Jergenson, FCSI, CCS, CxA, CABS, Technical Director, Building Science Solutions, Intertek
Incomplete or unclear drawings often lead to performance issues in the field. This session reviews building science fundamentals and shows how to improve detail clarity at foundations, roofs, windows, penetrations, and material transitions to support durable, energy-efficient enclosures.
10:00-10:30AM Morning Break, Sponsor Displays
10:30-11:30AM
Adventures in Hygrothermal Modeling 1.0 LU/HSW
Keith Simon, FAIA, Vice President, Design Phase Services, Salas O’Brien
This session demonstrates how hygrothermal modeling replaces rules of thumb with data-driven insights. Through case studies, it examines when perm ratings matter, how roof membrane color and cool roofing affect performance, and when high-temperature membranes are truly required for durability.
11:30AM-1:00PM Lunch Break, Sponsor Displays
1:00-2:00PM
Self-Adhered Membrane Applications: What Does It Really Mean to Stick? 1.0 LU/HSW
Cody Shelner, PE, Head of Marketing, Air & Waterproofing, tesa Air & Waterproofing
While self-adhered membranes are popular for their ease of use, performance depends on more than peel adhesion. This presentation reviews the forces these systems must resist—wind, stack effect, and pressurization—and explains why comprehensive performance testing is essential for long-term durability.
2:00-2:30PM Afternoon Break, Sponsor Displays
2:30-4:00PM
Understanding Difficult Critical Transitions of Air, Vapor, and Moisture Barriers 1.5 LU/HSW
Corey Zussman, AIA, NCARB, CABS, QA/QC Vice President, AECOM Hunt Construction
This presentation identifies challenging critical transitions in complex building types and provides tools to understand proper sequencing and detailing. Using construction drawings and real-world installation photos, it highlights strategies to prevent constructability issues and costly rework in the field.
4:00PM Closing Remarks

Registration Fee: $50
Venue:
University of Detroit Mercy
Student Union Building
Ballroom (2nd Floor)

ABAA Terminology Ad Hoc Group Meeting
2026-04-09 12:00 - 13:00

Whole Building Air Tightness Tests: Building Preparation and Sampling 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-04-09 13:00 - 14:00
Whole Building Air Tightness Tests: Building Preparation and Sampling
All measurement tests inherently have error associated with the testing procedures, and whole building airtightness is no exception. Whole building airtightness testing is typically performed on construction sites, for buildings of various size and shape, sometimes still in various stages of construction. Different techniques are often used to prepare buildings for the test. This includes methods for temporary sealing of intentional openings. Currently, the degree of error associated with different techniques is unknown. This presentation will review different techniques for preparing and testing large scale buildings, review the results of over 200 large scale whole building airtightness tests, and look at the comparative results from different methods of building preparation to assess the potential error associated with different building preparation techniques.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the different methods of temporary sealing and building preparations required before testing
Describe the relative effectiveness of different building preparation methods
Understand the function of a whole building air barrier test
Predict what methods of preparation will lead to tighter test results

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Brad Carmichael, PE, BEMP, CPHC, Principal, 4EA Building Science
Brad has been consulting on building enclosures throughout North America for over a decade. Brad is passionate about good design and the role it can play in social and environmental stewardship. He believes that durable and efficient building enclosures are critical for a built environment that is low consumption and long lasting. Brad has consulted on a wide array of different project types and sectors, including high rises, healthcare facilities, cultural institutions, workspaces, affordable housing, and historic landmarks.

Schwab/ABAA Virtual Air Barrier Installation & Quality Control Fundamentals Webinar
2026-04-13 13:00 - 14:00
Presenter: Melissa Payne, BECxP, CxA-BE, CDT
CEU: 1 AIA LU/HSW
Register Here
Join us for an informative presentation that emphasizes the importance of proper air barrier application in enhancing building performance. Properly installed air barriers are critical in preventing air leakage, which can lead to energy inefficiencies, moisture issues, and compromised indoor air quality. We will delve into best practices for air barrier application, highlighting the techniques that ensure continuity and effectiveness. Attendees will learn about common challenges faced during installation and the vital role of quality control in maintaining the integrity of the air barrier system. Through real-world project photo’s, we’ll illustrate key application requirements for a variety of air barrier materials and exactly what to look for when performing quality control and site-testing.
Learning Objectives:

Identify and demonstrate the essential techniques for proper air barrier installation, ensuring continuity and effectiveness in various building applications.
Identify common pitfalls and obstacles in air barrier application, and learn strategies to overcome these challenges to maintain optimal performance.
Articulate the importance of quality control processes during installation, and learn specific inspection methods and testing protocols to ensure air barrier integrity.
Analyze real-world case studies to distinguish between effective and ineffective air barrier installations, understanding the long-term consequences of proper application and maintenance.

ABAA Nominating Committee Meeting
2026-04-16 12:00 - 13:00

Update on the Current Building and Energy Codes That Affect the Air Barrier Industry 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-04-16 13:00 - 14:00
Update on the Current Building and Energy Codes That Affect the Air Barrier Industry
Building and energy efficiency codes can have huge impact on the Air Barrier Industry, affecting the specification and installation of air and water-resistive barrier systems. Following the code change process is a daunting task and even apparently small changes can have a large impact. Building and Energy Codes are updated on a three-year cycle and we are at a transition period with the publication of ASHRAE 90.1-2025 and the finalization of the 2027 editions of both the International Building Code (IBC) and International Energy Efficiency Code (IECC). This presentation will have an overview of the revisions that were implemented over the past code cycle and some changes which will govern code development in the next cycle. Additionally the status of state and jurisdictional adoption will discussed.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the status of building and energy code development
Understand changes to air barrier and water-resistive barrier requirements in the upcoming IBC-2027
Understand changes to air barrier related provisions in ASHRAE-90.1-2025
Understand the status and environment for energy code adoption by states and jurisdictions.

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Theresa Weston, PhD, CPHC, CAPS, CGP, President, The Holt Weston Consultancy
Dr. Theresa Weston is a building science research professional specializing in the durability and energy efficiency of buildings. Theresa started The Holt Weston Consultancy in November 2020. Prior to starting her company, Dr Weston was a DuPont Laureate with Dupont Safety and Construction. Dr. Weston is an inventor on four U. S. patents.
Theresa received her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Masters and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering, both from the California Institute of Technology.
Dr. Weston is active in industry standard and code development at ASHRAE, ASTM and ICC. Dr. Weston has been awarded the DuPont Lavoisier Medal for Lifetime Technical Achievement, the ASHRAE Distinguished Service, Exceptional Service and Residential Service Awards, the Wagdy Anis Award from the Air Barrier Association of America, and the E. George Stern Award of Excellence from ASTM Committee E06.

Whole Building Airtightness Technician Training Course - Northbrook, IL
2026-04-20 - 2026-04-24 | WJE Northbrook, 330 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook,, IL, 60062, United States
Program Description
The purpose of the ABAA Blower Door Technician Training Program is to educate both entry-level and more experienced blower door technicians on the planning, preparation, and execution of airtightness testing for commercial and large buildings in conformance with industry standard test methods. The training aims to equip blower door technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to appropriately evaluate, prepare, test, analyze, and report on a building’s airtightness performance.
The ABAA Blower Door Technician Training Program is a 40-hour training program delivered over 5 days by subject matter experts retained by ABAA who are guided by detailed lesson plans. In addition to receiving instruction from experienced experts, the trainees will also have the opportunity to plan and carry out simulated building airtightness tests on physical mock-ups during the training program.
The program is intended to help prepare the trainees to become a Certified Blower Door Technician through ABAA’s certification program, but completion of the training program is not required for ABAA certification. The trainees will learn about the certification program and requirements during the training program.
For the purposes of demonstrations, activities, and simulations, this training program uses equipment from two widely used blower door fan manufacturing companies.
More Information
Training Course Fees:

Members – $2,500.00
Non-Members – $2,850.00

Additional Fees:

Level 1 Registration & Exam – Members $495.00 Non-Members $695.00
Level 2 Registration & Exam – Members $595.00 Non-Members $895.00

Training Location:
WJE Northbrook
330 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847.272.2400
Location Details:
Park in the lot off 255 Melvin Drive, Northbrook, IL 60062, The entrance door will be on the north side of the building, right by the parking.
Signs directing students will be posted

Registration is limited to 12 students. Sign up today and secure your spot!
Registration Deadline: Friday, April 3, 2026

Register Today

The Building Science Aspects of Enclosure Detailing and Tie-Ins 1.0 CEU/HSW
2026-04-23 13:00 - 14:00
The Building Science Aspects of Enclosure Detailing and Tie-Ins
The building enclosure is made up of many material types, with the predominant need of protecting the building from water infiltration. In addition, materials and tie-ins are critical to control air flow, understand thermal bridging and risks of surface condensation, and the control and flow of moisture by vapor diffusion. Sequencing of the details and tie-ins also have to consider sequencing by the trades, material compatibility, and durability, including impacts of seasonal cycling.
This talk will focus on looking at the full building science considerations of detailing, including materials that play one or more role as a control layer for heat, air and moisture. The speaker will also discuss constructability and trade sequencing considerations. These are critical things to understand in designing and configuring details, in addition to how they are presented in design drawing and shop drawing sets. This includes understanding how to integrate manufacturer standard details at interfaces such as roof to wall between roofing and wall air and water barriers and cladding.
Learning Objectives:

Gain building science knowledge in configurations of details and what elements are controlling which types of flow paths for heat, air and moisture.
Have a deeper understanding of detail sequencing considering material compatibility, as well as sequencing of the trades.
Gain knowledge in layering for durability, while also examining the build up of layers and thicknesses against construction constraints.
Be able to describe and detail layering and sequencing critical to understand in design drawings and shop drawings for building enclosure systems.

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Paul Totten, PE, LEED AP, Senior Vice President, WSP
Paul E. Totten is a Senior Vice President at WSP and leads the Building Enclosures Division. He has over 28 years of experience in the fields of structural engineering, building enclosure design and commissioning, and building science. He has concentrated his expertise on the evaluation and analysis of heat, air, and moisture transfer, and the cumulative effect these elements have on building components and building operation.

ABAA ExCom Meeting
2026-04-27 14:00 - 15:00
