Speakers to give updates on economy, daylighting research at FGIA Virtual Summer Summit

Experts on both the economy and daylighting will present during the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) Virtual Summer Summit, taking place online June 23-24. Robert Dietz, PhD, (National Association of Home Builders) will provide an economic update covering the impacts of inflation, interest rates and the housing supply while Louis-Philippe Champagne (Canadian Construction Association) will give an update on Canadian politics and trade. Lisa Heschong (Heschong Mahone Group) will share the latest research on the impact of daylighting on human health and why it matters to the fenestration and glazing industry. Register now to take advantage of early bird pricing through May 27.

“In a world of fast-moving policy and shifting trade, staying ahead isn't just an advantage. It’s a necessity,” said Florica Vlad, FGIA Events Manager. “The FGIA Virtual Summer Summit is designed to help our members enhance their competitive edge, blending critical economic insights with the latest industry-leading research. We’re excited to bring these expert voices directly to you. Take a look at our full lineup of amazing speakers.”

U.S. Economic Update
Dietz, chief economist at NAHB, will present “Beyond the Headlines: Inflation, Interest Rates and Housing Supply in a Shifting Economy” on Tues., June 23. This session will provide a detailed examination of the overall U.S. economy and the housing market. Answering questions like, “What is the state of inflation, economic growth, monetary policy and interest rates for the remainder of 2026?,” Dietz will offer a unique focus on the supply side of the housing market. He will discuss opportunities and challenges facing the residential construction sector for the rest of the decade and will also examine how headline risks from geopolitical and policy issues will affect the macroeconomy and the construction sector.

Canadian Trade Relations
Champagne is the associate vice president of public affairs and industry practices at the CCA. On Wed., June 24, he will give a presentation called, “Uncertainty and Opportunities: Navigating Change in Canadian Politics Trade Relations.” From shifting trade policies to election year developments, the decisions made today will have lasting economic consequences. This session will deliver an in-depth discussion on Canada’s evolving political landscape and the changing dynamics of Canada-U.S. trade, including the impacts of tariffs, trade negotiations and policy shifts that could reshape cross-border relations.

Daylighting
Heschong is an MIT-educated architect with a long career as a daylighting researcher. On Wed., June 24, she will offer her expertise in a session entitled “Daylight and Human Health: New Opportunities for the Fenestration Industry.” Evidence for the importance of ample daylight exposure to human health is accumulating on many fronts. Circadian health is perhaps the most well understood, but in addition, scientists are finding many new and unexpected pathways whereby daylight exposure improves long-term health outcomes for all ages. Understanding the emerging science can open new marketing and product development opportunities for the fenestration and glazing industries.

Event Registration
Significantly discounted registration options are available for FGIA members. Nonmembers may register up to two individuals for US$1,600. Registration closes on June 19. View pricing options.

For more information about FGIA events, visit FGIAonline.org/events.

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