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Education & Training

Education and training are two hallmarks of Glass & Metal Alliance member qualifications — and our service to the design and construction industry.

Glass & Metal Alliance (formerly AGI) members are respected far and wide for their knowledge and expertise in the design, fabrication, and installation of architectural glass and metal products and systems.

This excellence is no accident. All glaziers train at the Finishing Trades Institute of the Mid-Atlantic Region (FTI-MAR) — North America’s first Department of Education accredited union training program.

FTI’s premier education now extends to Glass & Metal Alliance colleagues in the industry — from architects and engineers to contractors and consultants. Through a robust suite of hands-on training, lunch-and-learn seminars, and customized programs, Glass & Metal Alliance brings the resources and education of FTI to our industry peers — shaping a more informed and collaborative design and construction process.

 
About FTI

FTI provides training for the apprentices and journeypersons of IUPAT District Council 21, helping to recruit and build a smarter, more diverse, and motivated workforce.

FTI Fast Facts:

  • Over 100,000 sf of training space including an interior three-story steel structure used for blueprint reading, hands-on skills development, welding, and health and safety training
  • 3 full-time and 11 part-time instructors
  • Full accreditation from the U.S. Department of Education since 2009, meaning FTI graduates earn specialized associate degrees and can continue their education to earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees
Visit FTI.edu for learn more

Architectural Glass Boot Camps

Boot Camps are interactive instructional programs that reinforce the importance of collaboration and communication. Design professionals and glaziers team up to learn fundamental glazing craft through interactive instruction and hands-on application. Programs range from full- to half-day sessions and can be customized for a specific glazing topic or audience. Read about a Customized Curtainwall Boot Camp.


Read about a Customized Curtainwall Boot Camp

Glazing Education for our Alliance Members

When requested, Glass & Metal Alliance can create and host seminars to teach glazing fundamentals, explore new design techniques, address constructability, foster dialogue, and encourage collaboration. Offering AIA/CES credits and customization options, programs leverage the extensive knowledge and expertise of our member contractors.