The Scaffold and Access Industry Association (SAIA) will welcome more than 700 attendees this August 4-8 in Fort Worth, TX for its Annual Convention & Exposition, with 57 of those being first-timers.
The SAIA Annual Convention & Exposition brings together the largest gathering of scaffold and access industry professionals. The convention features industry-focused educational sessions and showcases the nation’s top scaffold and access exhibitors.
This yearly event is also one of the best opportunities for members to meet face-to-face, in a central location, to share opinions and expertise and discuss best practices.
“In the rapidly evolving construction industry, unity is essential,” says SAIA Associate Director Jackie Davis. “We must come together to support each other and prioritize the safety of our workers. By sharing the latest safety trends and best practices, we empower ourselves to tackle the challenges ahead. We must confront these issues collaboratively. Together, we are stronger, and that is the purpose of participating in these vital events. Let us commit to creating a safer, more resilient industry for everyone.”
Scaffold Training
Training is an essential element of the SAIA Annual Convention & Exposition, and for anyone looking to take care of requirements needed for educational, certification or compliance purposes, the following courses will be available to take in Fort Worth.
Train the Trainer Facilitator Skills Workshop
Monday, August 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Course Fee: $545 member | $645 non-member
Location: Omni Hotel – Fort Worth Convention Center
This interactive workshop is a hands-on approach to the improvement of teaching and learning skills. Participants will review basic ideas about training and adult learning skills, check current practices and practice their presentation skills. Students will be encouraged to try new instructional strategies and techniques within the safe environment of a group setting. In this workshop, you will have an opportunity to understand the importance of effective instructional skills, practice a variety of training tools and techniques, recognize the importance of establishing a positive learning environment, use learning objectives to inform students of expectations and intentions, understand the different learning styles of participants and become familiar with the SAIAU Training Program content.
This workshop develops competence and confidence as an instructor; it is suitable for novice and seasoned instructors alike. This course meets the skills training requirement for new SAIA Accredited Training Institutes and new instructors.
Competent Person Training – Frame Scaffold
Tuesday, August 5, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Course Fee: $350 member | $450 non-member
Due to the build portion, this course will be held at: Construction Education Foundation (CEF) of North Texas, 101 South Royal Lane, Building B, Room 247, Coppell, Texas, 75019.
This class is designed for scaffold erectors and covers all the safety aspects regarding frame scaffold foundations, scaffold components, regulations, guardrail requirements, erection and dismantling procedures that exceed the standard height to base ratio.
The class format includes a combination of presentation, question and answer, hands-on component and a final exam. Participants who score 70 percent or higher on the written exam AND display competency in building frame scaffolding will receive a Certificate of Completion for the course and wallet card from the SAIAU Training Program. If your competent person designation is more than three years old, you can re-certify here.
Competent Person Training – System Scaffold
Tuesday, August 5, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Course Fee: $350 member | $450 non-member
Due to the build portion, this course will be held at: Construction Education Foundation (CEF) of North Texas, 101 South Royal Lane, Building B, Room 248, Coppell, Texas, 75019.
This class is designed for scaffold erectors and covers all the safety aspects regarding system scaffold foundations, scaffold components, regulations, guardrail requirements, erection and dismantling procedures that exceed the standard height to base ratio.
The class format includes a combination of presentation, question and answer, hands-on component and a final exam. Participants who score 70 percent or higher on the written exam AND display competency in building system scaffolding will receive a Certificate of Completion for the course and wallet card from the SAIAU Training Program. If your competent person designation is more than three years old, you can re-certify here.
Competent Person Training – Suspended Scaffold
Tuesday, August 5, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Course Fee: $350 member | $450 non-member
Location: Omni Hotel – Fort Worth Convention Center
Elevate your expertise in scaffold safety with the newly revised Suspended Scaffold training program, designed to deliver the most current industry standards and hands-on insights. Whether you are new to the field or looking to refresh your skills, these essential courses are your ticket to greater confidence and on-the-job safety.
This class is designed for suspended scaffold users and covers all the safety aspects regarding suspended scaffold stages, ropes, regulations, guardrail requirements, fall protection, hoists and installation components.
The class format includes a combination of presentation, question and answer, hands-on component and a final exam. Participants who score 70 percent or higher on the written exam AND display competency in building suspended scaffolding will receive a Certificate of Completion for the course and wallet card from the SAIAU Training Program. If your competent person designation is more than three years old, you can re-certify here.
Conference Program and Topics
From an economic outlook to project reports, this year’s conference program is tailored specifically for the scaffold and access industry. Here is what attendees will hear about.
Wednesday, August 6
9 a.m. to 10 a.m. – YOU. In the Pilot Seat presented by Elizabeth McCormick
The SAIA is honored to welcome Elizabeth McCormick, a decorated U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot and globally recognized leadership expert, as a featured keynote speaker at this year’s SAIA Annual Convention.
From flying top-secret missions to ranking among the top five leadership experts, just behind Tony Robbins, McCormick has empowered audiences across the globe with her high-impact, action-oriented insights on leadership, safety and personal growth. She is a force of inspiration with the tactical knowledge to elevate teams, leaders and organizations.
This powerful session, “Leadership Takes Flight,” combines unforgettable aviation stories with game-changing leadership strategies. Attendees should prepare to be inspired, challenged and equipped with tools to lead at new heights.
10 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Generational Gap: The 3 Cs presented by Katherine Jeffery, PhD
The SAIA is excited to welcome Katherine Jeffery, PhD, generational strategist and business consultant, as a featured speaker at SAIA 2025.
Her session, “The 3 Cs,” will explore how care, curiosity and collaboration can help bridge generational gaps and build stronger, more inclusive teams. With more than 20 years of research and consulting experience, Jeffery brings fresh insight and actionable tools to help organizations thrive across five generations in the workplace.
This engaging and transformative experience is designed to spark culture change and strengthen generational competency. It is more than a session, it is a catalyst for lasting impact across your organization.
2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – The Construction Outlook: What’s in the Mix for ’26? presented by Ken Simonson
The SAIA is pleased to welcome Ken Simonson, Chief Economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, as a featured speaker at SAIA 2025.
With more than 40 years of experience and a national reputation for cutting through the noise, Simonson will unpack how 2025’s economic and policy shocks are reshaping construction and what that means for 2026. If you want a clear, data-driven outlook on where the industry is headed, this is a must-attend session.
Attendees will gain a competitive edge with Simonson’s bold predictions and expert analysis of emerging trends. Do not just keep up, get ahead of the curve with insights that matter.
3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. How to avoid litigation the UK way! presented by Clive Dickin MCIPD
The SAIA is honored to welcome Clive Dickin, Chief Executive Officer of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), as a featured guest speaker at this year’s SAIA Annual Convention and Exposition.
With more than 25 years of leadership across construction, aviation and trade bodies, Dickin brings a wealth of global experience in innovation, regulation, stakeholder engagement and industry transformation. From spearheading major safety transitions to launching Europe’s largest scaffolding exhibition, his impact is undeniable.
Attendees will expand their vision and elevate their impact. Do not miss this rare opportunity to gain global perspective and actionable insights that can transform your business and contribute to the advancement of the industry as a whole. Be part of the conversation shaping the future; your next big breakthrough could start here.
Thursday, August 7
10 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Culture Over Compliance presented by Brian Brogen
After a tragic event shook his team, Brian Brogen began a deep, months-long investigation that revealed a powerful truth: compliance is not enough. Despite having proper training, equipment and procedures, the team’s culture had quietly broken down.
This keynote challenges audiences to go beyond the checklist, to build a culture rooted in shared responsibility and lasting behavioral change. It is a powerful call to action for any organization ready to move from compliance to excellence.
2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Emotional intelligence (EQ) in Leadership presented by Jevon Wooden
In this engaging and practical talk, Jevon Wooden introduces “The Five Pillars of Empathetic Leadership,” a framework that empowers leaders to drive engagement, foster trust and inspire high performance. Participants will learn how to integrate emotional intelligence into their leadership style, communicate with impact and create cultures where employees thrive.
Drawing on real-world insights and actionable strategies, Wooden provides a roadmap for transforming leadership practices to align with the needs of a diverse workforce. Attendees will leave equipped to lead with confidence, compassion and purpose, driving results that matter.
3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Live Demonstration of Various Anchor Types Under Load presented by the SAIA Permanent Installation Council Brian Andrews and Bobby Zeolla
In this live demonstration, Brian Andrews and Bobby Zeolla will discuss different anchor types and their uses while performing a live load test on various anchors. Learn which anchor types are best for specific applications and see how they handle real-world loads on stage.
President’s Gala and Awatrds
Capping off the week will be the association’s Member and Project Awards ceremony during the President’s Gala Dinner, which will be held on August 7.
The President’s Gala and Awards Presentation is not to be missed.
Each year there is an event theme, and while attendees are not required to dress to the part, they are encouraged to join in on the fun.
The 2025 Theme and Attire is “Turquoise and Tumbleweeds: A Night of Rustic Elegance.” This means rustic elegance meets western flair. Come dressed in jeans, boots, rhinestones and timeless charm for an unforgettable evening of celebration and western sophistication.
During the dinner, fellow SAIA members are acknowledged for their contributions to the SAIA and outstanding achievements within the scaffold and access industry. During the evening’s President’s Gala event, recipients of the Association and Project Awards are announced and recognized with peers.
Categories for the Project Awards include:
- MEWP Project of the Year
- SAIA Commercial Collaborative Project of the Year
- SAIA Industrial Collaborative Project of the Year
- Mast Driven Hoists and Platforms Project of the Year
- Innovation Award
- Suspended Access Project of the Year
- Supported Scaffold Project of the Year
- Shoring Project of the Year
Categories for the Member Awards include:
- Coupling Pin Award
- Hall of Fame Award
- Outstanding Company Contribution Award
- Outstanding Council Chairperson Award
- Outstanding Service Award
- Spirit Award
- Unsung Hero Award
- Victor Saleeby Award
- William T. Ayres Founders Award for Membership Growth
- SAIAU Accredited Training Institute Award
SAIA Annual Convention & Exposition Timeline and ScheduleMonday, August 4 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. — 2025 SAIA Annual Convention and Exposition Golf Tournament, sponsored by Action Scaffold. Las Colinas Country Club 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Train the Trainer Facilitator Skills Workshop 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. — SSFI Meeting 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. — ASC A11 Main Committee Meeting Tuesday, August 5 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Competent Person Training – Suspended Scaffold 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — SAIA Cafe 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. — SAIAEF Board of Directors – Invitation Only 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. — Guest Connection – Welcome to Fort Worth Coffee with the Concierge. Ballroom Lobby 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Competent Person Training – System Scaffold 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Competent Person Training – Frame Scaffold 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. — Product Demos – CrewTracks. 10:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Guest Connection Tour – Fort Worth Stockyards Cattle Drive Experience 10:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. — Product Demos – ScaffCalc 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Product Demos – KEWAZO Lift Bot 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. — Lunch 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. — SAIA Board of Directors Meeting 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. — Ambassador Council Reception – New Member and First Time Attendees Only 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. — Ribbon Cutting and Welcome Reception with Exhibitors. 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. — Past Presidents Dinner – Invitation Only Wednesday, August 6 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — SAIA Registration and Information Desk 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — SAIA Cafe 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. — AAC Meeting 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. — YOU. In the Pilot Seat presented by Elizabeth McCormick. Ballroom C. Elizabeth McCormick, CSP, Motivational Keynote Speaker Specializing in Leadership, Sales and Safety Events, Soar 2 Success International, LLC 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. — Generational Gap: The 3 Cs presented by Katherine Jeffery. Ballroom C. Katherine Jeffery, Scaffold and Access Industry Association 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — Exhibit Hours (Includes Lunch) 11:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. — Guest Connection Tour – Cowboy Hat Bar Experience 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. — Council Chair Meeting – Invitation Only 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. — The construction outlook: what’s in the mix for ‘26? presented by Ken Simonson, AGC. 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. — How to avoid litigation the UK way! presented by Clive Dickin MCIPD National Access and Scaffolding Confederation Ltd (NASC). Clive Dickin, Chief Executive Officer, National Access and Scaffolding Confederation Ltd 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. — Reception with Exhibitors, sponsored by Scaffold Resource. Thursday, August 7 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. — SAIA Registration and Information Desk 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. — SAIA Cafe 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. — General Membership Meeting with Council and Board of Director Updates 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. — Culture Over Compliance presented by Brian Brogen, Chief Inspiration Officer, Build Yourself, Then Build Others. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Exhibit Hours (Includes Lunch) 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. — Emotional intelligence (EQ) in Leadership presented by Jevon Wooden, Empathetic Leadership Speaker and Coach, BrightMind Consulting Group 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. — Live Demonstration of Various Anchor Types Under Load presented by the SAIA Permanent Installation Council Brian Andrews and Bobby Zeolla 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. — President’s Gala Reception 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. — President’s Gala Dinner and Awards 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. — President’s Gala After Party Friday, August 8 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. — Farewell Breakfast |
