Looking Back and Looking Forward… to GPD Finland!

One of the things that I find most valuable in our industry is the sharing of knowledge.  Whether it’s on new products, technologies, manufacturing, design trends, forecasts or conceptual research, having the different industry experts who are willing impart what they know or share their perspective in an immersive, educational forum is what I believe propels the construction industry forward.  These forums are also great events for networking, collaboration and even forging life-long friendships. As an added bonus, they are always fun. 

One of my favorite events is Glass Performing Days (GPD) in Tampere, Finland.  Scheduled every two years, GPD’s objective is to “address the entire glass industry supply chain from researchers to architects, designers, glass producers, processors, equipment providers and end-users” through presentations, workshops, factory tours and networking events. I have been to this event many times and found each experience to be more interesting, exciting and insightful than ever.  The last event was held in 2019, and we sent Sean Ross, SAFTI FIRST’s Vice President of Research & Development, to participate and immerse himself with the latest research and technologies.  The knowledge he gained from this event continues to propel our R&D initiatives forward, as well as keep SAFTI FIRST on the leading edge of glazing technology and in lock-step with world-class facilities anywhere. 

The global interruption that COVID-19 has placed on our industry’s invaluable education and networking forums and conferences has me longing for the good old days, and I believe a lot of people feel the same way.  In the meantime, please enjoy this fun video that we’ve put together.  Hopefully, this can bring back your own cherished memories and friendships resulting events you’ve participated in over the years.

  
While there is still lingering uncertainty for the future, I believe that our industry will make its way back-to-normal, and it will be better than ever!  We certainly hope to see you in Tempere, Finland for GPD 2021 in October! 

^{The author Bill O’Keeffe at GPD Finland. Click on the link above to watch the video!}