Component Connection

AI is creating new opportunities across component manufacturing, but knowing where to start can be a challenge. Ashley Baker, SBCA's Director of Education, sits down with Craig Mooney, Owner of AutoBuild Solutions, to discuss practical applications of AI in the industry, from estimating and everyday workflows to data security and responsible implementation in an effort to preview his upcoming education session at the Charlotte OQM, December 8-10, 2026. Craig highlights the hands-on workshop he will lead that's designed to help component manufacturers explore how these tools can work in their own businesses.

In this episode, SBCA’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Sean Shields, is joined by Molly Butz, SBCA’s Managing Director, and Christine Wagner, SBCA’s Director of Communications & Marketing. Together, they explore the value of the 2026 Innovative Housing Showcase on the National Mall, an annual event hosted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

BCMC 2026 brought the structural building components industry together for a week of education, innovation, networking, and an incredible show floor. In this episode, SBCA Director of Education, Ashley Baker, is joined by Ali Saladin-Valerio, Director of Events; Shannon Ambelang, Software Support Specialist; and Greg Greenlee, P.E., Technical Director, to recap the conference from their unique perspectives. They’ll share highlights from the show floor, the SBCA booth, technical education, and more. Ashley wraps up the conversation with a look at this year’s expanded education offerings, including show floor education, Industry Roundtables, and Women in Construction.

BCMC 2026 is almost here! In this episode of Component Connection, host Abby Langenberg, SBCA Director of Business Development & Member Engagement, is joined by Ali Saladin-Valerio, Director of Events, and Ashley Baker, Director of Education, for a final look at what attendees can expect in Columbus. From building your schedule and navigating the show floor to can’t-miss education, networking opportunities, Innovation Alley, and new experiences this year, the team shares their best advice for making the most of your time at BCMC. Whether it’s your first show or you’ve been attending for years, tune in for the details, tips, and reminders you’ll want to know before you arrive.

In this episode, Molly Butz is joined by Justin Binning and Ken Timmins with American International Forest Products (AIFP) who provide a snapshot of the current lumber market. The market remains turbulent, with MSR grades still difficult to source and transportation challenges adding another layer of complexity. Staying flexible and keeping communication open with suppliers remains especially important in the current environment. Justin has been with AIFP since 2010 with a focus in Southern Yellow Pine and Ken has been with AIFP since 2017, specializing in Fir species. Both specialize in high grade lumber for the component manufacturing industry.

In this episode of Component Connection, Abby Langenberg, SBCA’s Director of Business Development & Member Engagement, sits down with Dario Schmidt, Product Manager at Stiles Machinery, to discuss the company’s two innovations selected for the 2026 SBCA Innovation Grant. They explore how the pre-cutting sheathing cell and sealing tape applicator can increase automation, reduce labor demands and material waste, and support more efficient wall panel production. Dario also shares how the technologies are being adapted for the North American market and what attendees can expect to see from Stiles at BCMC 2026.

In this episode, Ashley Baker, SBCA Director of Education, sits down with longtime industry professional, April Burt, for a candid conversation about women in construction. April reflects on her career, how the industry has evolved, the importance of mentorship and opportunity, and what it takes to create an environment where women can build lasting careers and lead. Plus, get a preview of the conversations ahead at the Women in Construction Lunch at BCMC 2026 and why this is a discussion everyone in the industry can benefit from.

In this episode, SBCA’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Sean Shields, is joined by SBCA's Director of Business Development & Member Engagement, Abby Langenberg. At the conclusion of the Pacific Coast Builders Conference (PCBC), they discuss the value of exhibiting at the show and the connections they made with attendees.

In this episode, Molly Butz is joined by Justin Binning and Ken Timmins with American International Forest Products (AIFP) who provide a snapshot of the current lumber market. The lumber market is starting to settle a bit after several weeks of steady movement, but supply, transportation challenges, and an aggressive fire season are still part of the picture. With a few outside factors adding uncertainty, it’s a good time for buyers and suppliers to keep the conversation open and stay realistic about what the next few weeks may bring. Justin has been with AIFP since 2010 with a focus in Southern Yellow Pine and Ken has been with AIFP since 2017, specializing in Fir species. Both specialize in high grade lumber for the component manufacturing industry.

In this episode of Component Connection, SBCA’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Sean Shields, is joined by Chris Rausch, an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, and Director of the Enabling Technologies for Housing Innovation Center (ETHIC). They discuss the recent Industrialized Housing Summit and the challenges and opportunities facing the industrialized housing industry.