It was great to attend another BCMC this year in Columbus, reconnect with so many incredible people from across the country and around the world, and see the projects and innovations that continue to drive our industry forward. For nearly two decades, I have attended this show in a variety of roles. While saying that certainly makes me feel a little older, it also reminds me how fortunate I am to have played a small part in an industry that never stops evolving and innovating. I am proud to be connected to the passionate, forward-thinking people who make up the truss and frame industry. Each year, BCMC serves as a great reminder of the talent, ingenuity, and commitment that continues to shape the future of the industry. [For all photos, See PDF or View in Full Issue.]
Strength in a Challenging Market
In this challenging market that we are in, the resilience of both companies and the people behind them was evident this year. It is at times like these that you see everyone knuckling down, refining processes, and adding an extra feature to a machine that there wasn’t time for when the market was running at a different pace. That work can only lead to bigger, better products and stronger service when the market strengthens again.
I also felt a real sense of camaraderie born from these trying times. From customers and vendors alike, you get the feeling that we are all in this together and preparing to ramp up when the economy stabilizes and market conditions pick back up.
Putting Software Center Stage
One of the questions we were asked this year was, “Where is your machinery?” Traditionally, we have occupied a large section of the show floor, showcasing our range of roof truss, floor truss, and wall panel equipment. Although we believe it is important for customers to see the machinery, it is equally important for them to see what is behind the curtain, so this year we chose to focus on our software.
Our TandemOne truss jigging demonstration was very well received. Customers who took the time to have Simon, our Technical Support Officer, or Grayson, our Software Engineer, demonstrate the interface were impressed by how intuitive we have made it. The software’s range of features was another strong talking point and highlighted how carefully we listen to our customers and implement their requests – something we take great pride in.
Machinery Making an Impact
Our machinery was certainly not completely hidden. Our team created an interactive stand with bold visual displays highlighting both our tried-and-true machines and some newer equipment. There were plenty of conversations about the GlideAway, a fully automated nail plate positioning and pressing system which only requires the truss to be stapled together before running through an automated pressing head and Finishing Roller. The TrussMaker also peaked a lot of interest, a modular version of the Mini tables, combining automated pucks with a platen press for jacks and smaller trusses. With a similar design to our automated truss tables, this system can be as large or small as you want and does not require a Finishing Roller to finish the truss plate penetration.
Another great talking point at our booth was wall frame production. Our modular wall assembly solutions streamline framing, nailing, sheathing, and stacking while supporting consistent wall frame quality across your line.
There’s no one-size-fits-all wall line, so it was great for visitors to our booth to get hands on with our factory planning tool. This allowed them to work through what solution would work best for their operation, their floorplan, and their production goals.
The Value of Coming Together
Getting together with the Spida team is always one of the highlights of the show for me. Because we are spread across the country and around the world, opportunities to spend time face-to-face are rare and especially valuable. We have worked hard to build an exceptional team across every part of the business. Our production, sales, service, technical support, and parts teams work tirelessly together to support our customers and contribute to the company’s ongoing success.
I am incredibly proud of what they have accomplished and the commitment they demonstrate every day. The chance to come together at the show, share stories, enjoy a few laughs, and engage in the occasional friendly banter is a great reminder of the incredible people we have brought together and the culture we continue to build as a team. It also reinforces our shared purpose: helping our customers and the wider industry move forward.
Thanks to everyone who visited our BCMC booth, and please reach out if you have any follow-up questions or requests.