| June 30, 2025
|
Are you an expert in business, sales, leadership, or security? Share your knowledge with the fence industry at FENCETECH 2026!
We’re looking for fresh, practical, and inspiring sessions — especially from voices in our diverse community. Spanish-language presentations are welcome, too!
Submit your proposal by July 11, 2025!
Make your mark:
• Share ideas that matter
• Grow your network
• Inspire the next generation
Ready to step up? We’d love to hear from you! Apply Now.
|
The American Fence Association’s 2025 Policy Agenda is here! Discover the key legislative priorities and advocacy efforts shaping the future of the fence industry. Visit our website to explore the full agenda and see how AFA is working to support your business and our industry: www.americanfenceassociation.com/government.
|
 We know summer is go-time in the fence industry — but it’s also a prime opportunity to take the next step in your career.
This summer, AFA is offering in-person certification testing in partnership with three chapters. Whether you're on the path to becoming a Certified Fence Contractor (CFC), Certified Gate Automation Designer (CGAD), Certified Gate Automation Technician (CGAT), or Certified Operations Manager (COM), now is the time to lock in your credentials.
Upcoming In-Person Certification Testing Dates:
- July 18 – Arlington, TX
Hosted by the Texas Fence Association | Family-friendly weekend chapter event
Register Here
- September 19 – Tukwila, WA
Hosted by the AFA Pacific Northwest Chapter | Part of multi-day chapter gathering
Register Here
Testing is included with your certification application; there is no separate testing fee unless you’re retaking an exam. New testing events are added to our schedule regularly — click here for all upcoming dates.
Need to apply? Start here by submitting your certification application.
Questions? Contact Sara Surprenant.
Don’t wait for the off-season – invest in your future now!
|
Join us September 10–11, 2025 for hands-on training and professional development with three expert-led programs designed for fencing industry pros at every level!
– Fence Installation School (FIS)
– Gate Automation Designer School (GADS)
– Operations Manager School (OMS)
|
Ready to elevate your skills? Registration is now open for Fence Installation School and Gate Automation Installation School at AFA University, taking place November 3–7 in Grapevine, TX! Whether you're new to the industry or looking to expand your expertise, these hands-on programs are designed to help you succeed.
Registration for additional November AFA University schools will be announced soon!
|
The AFA Online Store is stocked and ready! Show your pride in the fencing industry with exclusive AFA-branded apparel, accessories, and gear made just for our community.
What you’ll find:
- Branded shirts, hats and accessories
- Limited-edition items
- Gear for our Special Interest Groups (Hispanic Fence Professionals, Veterans in Fence, Women in Fence, Young Fence Professionals)
Start Shopping:
https://americanfenceassociation.com/store
Show off your gear:
#AFAGear & #WhereYouBelong.
Join the movement — represent AFA and the fence industry wherever you go!
|
Looking to sharpen your skills or learn something new? Check out the latest education sessions now available on AFA University Online!
You'll find topics that matter most to fencing professionals — like business, operations, sales, technology, and even recordings from past FENCETECH events. Best of all, many sessions are free or low-cost, so it’s easy to get started.
Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, there’s something here for you.
Browse sessions now: https://www.pathlms.com/afa
Learn at your pace. Grow your career. Stay ahead in the industry.
|
AFA is proud to welcome three new organizations to our growing network of Approved Education Providers. These industry leaders deliver high-quality training and continuing education opportunities that help professionals stay sharp, grow their businesses, and meet certification renewal requirements.
Binford Supply Group
Binford’s Access Control University offers in-person training that has helped countless fence professionals and contractors master the installation of various brands and types of automatic gate openers.These free classes are held throughout the year at multiple Binford locations and are a great way to level up your access control skills and expand your service offerings. Learn more: binfordsupply.com..
Controlled Products Systems Group
Controlled Products Systems Group provides education on gate automation through both virtual and in-person training opportunities. Whether you're looking to strengthen your technical knowledge or explore new product lines, their training programs help you stay at the forefront of gate operator technology. Explore programs: controlledproducts.com/virtual-technical-training.
Purple Coaching & Consulting
Purple Coaching & Consulting offers a unique mix of leadership, business development, and fence-specific training. With both online and in-person options, they support industry professionals who want to grow as leaders, build stronger teams, and improve operations.Visit: purplecoaching.com
|
Online Member-Only Community: Ready to level up your fence industry knowledge and connect with other professionals? Log in to our members-only online community today!
As a member, you’ll gain access to expert discussions, valuable resources, and the chance to connect with others who share your passion for fencing.
Not a member yet? Sign up now and enjoy all the benefits! Join now.
Get involved today: community.americanfenceassociation.com
|
You won't want to miss out on this event! We're expecting over 150 attendees, and 50% of the spots for the event are already filled! Sign up here to make sure you get a spot.
Foursomes are only $500, and indivual golfers are $125.
We need your help: We're looking for more contractor signups, and more sponsors! With the big names in fence and manufacturing expected to be in attendance, now is your chance to help your business stand out.
Click here to viewsponsorship opportunities.
Contact shane@goodshepherdfence.com to learn more.
|
 |
Volunteers gather for a photo at the SCVSAR worksite.
Image courtesy of Snohomish County Volunteer Search & Rescue. |
In early June, the Pacific Northwest Chapter was pleased to support their local community through a valuable volunteer project: providing security fencing for the Snohomish CountyVolunteer Search & Rescue's base of operations. Below, we're proud to share a thank-you message from SCVSAR:
"We extend our sincere thanks to the incredible team from the Pacific NW Chapter of The American Fence Association and the broader American Fence Association for their generous donations of time, labor, and materials!
Multiple fencing crews and product manufacturers/suppliers came together to provide top-quality security fencing for our base of operations. Their hard work and generosity will go a long way in helping us protect vital equipment and resources — ensuring we remain mission ready at all times.
A special thanks to NPR FENCE for spearheading this monumental project and Master Halco for their generous donation of materials. From all of us at SCVSAR, thank you for standing behind our mission and helping us continue to serve our community safely and effectively!"
Thank you to all who donated materials and/or labor!
All-O-Matic, Ameristar Fence & Security Products, Benincà Group’s HI Motions Opening Solutions, Blacklinehhp Products, LLC, Builders Fence Company, Capitol Steel Products, Catalyst Fence, Controlled Products Systems Group, E & E Lumber and Homecenter, Everguard Fence Materials, Foxtrot Fencing, Gates and Controls, Homeland Vinyl Products, Inc., JTI Commercial Services/JTI Fencing, Merchants Metals, Metro Overhead Door Inc and Metro Access Control, ProLink Supply, Security Contractor Services, Inc., Star Rentals, Viking Fence Co. Inc, Waymark Fence and Rail Accessories, Wheatland Tube.
|
Forbes
Want to grow your LinkedIn in just 30 minutes a day? This simple, repeatable system focuses on strategic commenting, creating high-quality posts, and engaging consistently in DMs to build visibility and generate leads. Set a timer, track what works, and stick to the plan — your next LinkedIn breakthrough could be closer than you think.
|
CNBC
The U.S. Small Business Administration is launching a new pilot program offering government-backed credit lines of up to $5 million to help small businesses access affordable working capital. Designed to be more attractive than existing SBA products, the lines of credit will feature simplified terms, competitive rates (estimated at 12%–15%), and up to 85% loan guarantees. The program aims to better support small businesses seeking to expand, fulfill contracts, or manage cash flow in a high-interest environment.
|
ConstructionDive
OSHA may move forward with a revised national heat safety rule, but experts say it's likely to be a performance-based standard rather than the prescriptive version proposed under the Biden administration. Public hearings have revealed mixed support, with labor groups favoring specific guidance and industry leaders urging flexibility to accommodate regional differences. For now, OSHA continues to enforce heat safety through its general duty clause, with emphasis on rest, shade, and hydration.
|
AFA would like to welcome the new members who have recently joined the association.
We're glad you're part of the family!
|
AFA would like to give a shout-out to our members celebrating anniversaries with the association.
We're honored to mark another year in our partnership!
|
Is your generator battery ready for storm season?
A dead generator battery during a storm can shut everything down. Don’t wait until it’s too late — check your battery’s health now.
If you need a replacement, our experts will help you find the right fit. We stock fresh, tested batteries — and even portable generators — to keep your business protected and prepared.
Login or register now to unlock special discounts. Already signed up? Ask the store associate to use your Member Savings GPO account (search by company name, phone, or email) or shop online here.
Need help? Email member@batteriesplus.com.
|
|
| |
|
ASSOCIATION NEWS
