Get ready for a full week of hands-on training and professional development at AFA University, happening November 3–7! Whether you're new to the industry or looking to grow your skills, there's a school for you:

5-Day Schools (Nov. 3–7):

• Fence Installation School
• Gate Automation Installation School

2-Day Schools (Nov. 3–4):

• Leadership Academy
• Sales Training School

2-Day Schools (Nov. 6–7):

• Operations Manager School

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and connect with peers!
Explore the schools and register today.

Get ready to shift your business into high gear at FENCETECH 2026, the fence, gate, and gate automation industry’s largest annual event, happening February 2-6, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN.

Whether you're a contractor, fabricator, installer, or business owner, this high-octane event is designed to fuel your success with:

• Hands-On Training & Expert-Led Workshops

From installation techniques to sales strategies and leadership development, FENCETECH offers sessions tailored to every role in the industry.

• Cutting-Edge Products & Technology

Explore the latest innovations in fence, gate, and access control systems on a dynamic exhibit floor packed with solutions to elevate your business.

• Unmatched Networking Opportunities

Connect with thousands of professionals, suppliers, and potential partners. Build relationships that drive growth and open doors to new opportunities.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the industry’s most powerful learning and networking experience.

We’ll see you in Indy!

Now’s the perfect time to become an AFA member! Members enjoy exclusive discounts on top-tier training and events, including AFA University in November and FENCETECH in February. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or grow your business, membership gives you access to valuable resources, networking, and savings.

Join today and start saving on your next training!
Learn more about membership.

Certification proves you know your craft, builds customer trust, and sets you apart in the industry.

It’s simple to take the next step:

1. Apply for the certification(s) you want to earn: Certification Application
2. Register for a testing event near you:

• November 8^th
  AFA University | Grapevine, TX
• November 12^th
  CPSG Training Event | Tempe, AZ

Heads up: online testing is coming soon, but it's not quite ready. Don’t worry — you’ll see a big announcement when it’s live.

Questions about the certification process? Contact Sara Surprenant, sara@americanfenceassociation.com.

This year at FENCETECH 2026, the AFA has intentionally left Wednesday and Thursday evenings unscheduled, giving suppliers the perfect opportunity to connect with customers on their own terms.

Use the open nights too:

• Host private dinners or receptions
• Throw appreciation parties
• Celebrate a successful year
• Build stronger relationships

No competing events. Just your brand, your guests, your moment.

Start planning now — venues fill fast!

Click here to view the schedule for FENCETECH 2026.

Are you looking to connect with professionals who share your goals, experiences, and passion for the fence industry? AFA’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are your gateway to deeper engagement, professional growth, and meaningful relationships.   

• Women in Fence
• Veterans in Fence
• Emerging Fence Professionals (previously YFP)
• Hispanic Fence Professionals

At FENCETECH 2026, your badge gives you free access to Special Interest Group sessions, where the fence industry’s most passionate professionals gather to share insights, solve challenges, and spark new ideas.

Why attend?

• Learn from influential leaders and innovators
• Connect with peers who share your focus
• Discover trends shaping your segment of the industry

Whether you're a seasoned expert or just getting started, these sessions are your gateway to deeper knowledge and stronger connections.

Don’t miss out - plan to attend!

Click here to learn more on how to get connected to a community.

Have you completed a project that stands out as a true example of excellence in the fence industry? The AFA Pro Awards recognize the most outstanding residential and commercial installations across 8 categories — from Access Control and Ornamental to Farm/Ranch/Agriculture and Multi-Use. This year, there’s no cost to submit, and both contractors and suppliers can participate.

• Contractors should nominate their favorite installations
• Suppliers should promote their customers’ projects by nominating

Winners will be honored at FENCETECH 2026 and will be featured in Fencepost magazine, giving your work the recognition it deserves. The deadline to submit is December 8, 2025, so don’t wait! Click here to start your project submission.

Do you know someone who’s making a real impact in the fence industry? The AFA Association Awards celebrate individuals and companies who exemplify leadership, integrity, and innovation. There are six distinct categories honoring those who’ve helped shape the future of our industry:

• Ambassador Award
• Outstanding Service Award
• Distinguished Service Award
• Contractor of the Year
• Manufacturer of the Year
• The prestigious Hall of Fame Award

Nominations are open now through December 8, 2025. Winners will be recognized at the Rise & Recognize Event during FENCETECH 2026 on February 5, 2026.

Ready to nominate someone exceptional? Click here to submit your nominee.

AFA proudly celebrates the dedication and achievement of our newest certificants! Earning an AFA certification represents a significant professional milestone – one that demonstrates commitment to excellence, industry knowledge, and the highest standards of professionalism.

These individuals have worked hard to expand their expertise and strengthen the reputation of the fence industry. We commend them for their effort and success in achieving this distinguished credential.

Please join us in congratulating our recent certificants – click here to view the list.

November 11 at 12 p.m. CST

AFA Veterans in Fence Online Forum: Honoring Veterans’ Service

Join us on Veterans Day for a special AFA Veterans in Fence online forum dedicated to celebrating veterans' service and exploring ways to continue making an impact beyond the military. Connect with fellow veterans, share experiences, and learn about opportunities to give back to your community and industry.

This Veterans Day let’s come together to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of those who served and discuss how we can continue making a difference. All veterans and industry professionals are welcome!

Learn More

November 13 at 12 p.m. CST

Join us for the free AFA’s Women in Fence Online Forum, a dynamic space dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the fencing industry. This virtual gathering provides an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow with fellow professionals who share your passion for fencing.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, network, and inspire alongside other women making a difference in the industry. Let’s strengthen our voices and elevate our success together!

Learn More

We’re excited to unveil the American Fence Association’s newly redesigned website, built with our members in mind. With a fresh look, streamlined navigation, and powerful new tools, it’s easier than ever to access resources, stay informed, and connect with the fence & gate community.

Explore enhanced member benefits, updated industry news, and a simplified event registration experience all from your desktop or mobile device.

Visit today and experience a smarter, faster way to engage with everything AFA has to offer.

Maintaining your AFA certification is the key to staying at the top of your profession — and earning your required Continuing Education Units (CEUs) has never been easier!

AFA offers multiple convenient ways to earn CEUs:

• AFA Training: Take advantage of our in-depth training sessions designed to enhance your skills and keep you current with industry best practices.
• AFAU Online: Access on-demand education anytime, anywhere. Learn at your own pace and earn CEUs without leaving your workspace.
• AFA Approved Education Providers: Participate in live or on-demand courses through trusted partners offering high-quality continuing education that meets AFA standards.

All the details you need — including CEU options, renewal guides, and step-by-step instructions for logging your CEUs — can be found on our Certification Renewal page:
www.americanfenceassociation.com/education/certification_renewal/

Don’t wait until your renewal deadline approaches. Start earning and logging your CEUs today to ensure your certification remains active and your expertise stays sharp!

Questions? Contact sara@americanfenceassociation.com or 314-561-6670.

AFA Florida Chapter – Top Golf event
November 7, 2025
Top Golf
Pompano, FL
Click here for more information

AFA Northeast Chapter – Holiday Party
December 12, 2025
Beauport Hotel
Gloucester, MA
Click here for more information

Your support of the AFA Education Foundation helps build a stronger, smarter workforce for tomorrow. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, AFAEF funds academic scholarships, AFA University training, and vital career research to advance the fence, gate automation, and perimeter security industries.

Whether you give monthly, contribute through your chapter, or donate at FENCETECH, your generosity empowers emerging professionals and drives innovation across the industry.

Make your impact today — because when you give, the industry grows. Donate Now.

Each year, the AFA Education Foundation proudly awards Academic Scholarships to outstanding individuals working in the industry, or those with a close connection to someone who does, helping them take the next step in their educational journey. Have your student apply today.  Applications are due before January 17^th, 2026. Apply here.