As the 2025 BCMC & Framer Summit draws to a close, the halls of the CHI Health Center in Omaha still buzz with memories of new connections, bold ideas, and industry ambition. The annual convergence of structural building component manufacturers and framers — held Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 — delivered one of the most dynamic editions yet.
High-Level Takeaways
- Attendance and exhibitor presence hit record levels: over 1,700 attendees and 129 exhibitors filled nearly 72,000 square feet of exhibit space — the biggest show floor since 2007.
- The collaborative spirit was front and center: education sessions, roundtables, networking events, and social functions created ample opportunity for idea exchange and forging relationships.
- Innovation was spotlighted via the SBCA Innovation Grant program, displayed in “Innovation Alley,” with attendees casting votes for the People’s Choice Award.
Memorable Moments from the Week
Tuesday – Education & Honors Dinner
The summit opened with classroom sessions on pressing topics like labor challenges, artificial intelligence, robotics in component manufacturing, and jobsite best practices. Roundtables were well attended, creating lively discussion among peers. In the evening, the SBCA Honors Dinner held at Omaha’s historic Durham Museum recognized industry leaders, including Rick Parrino and Greg Griggs, for their contributions.
Wednesday – Kickoff & Keynote
SBCA’s leadership took center stage, with outgoing President Jeff Taake handing off the gavel to Larry Dix II. Jess Lohse, SBCA Executive Director, reviewed recent association accomplishments and future direction. The keynote address by NAHB President/CEO Jim Tobin acknowledged the crucial role component manufacturers play in the broader housing ecosystem. Once the exhibit hall opened, attendees streamed in to experience live machinery demos, new tools, software, and in-booth innovations.
Thursday – 5K, Forecast, & Celebration
The morning kicked off with the Joe & Adam Kannapell 5K Run/Walk, fostering camaraderie from the start.
A keynote economic forecast by Dr. Scott Anderson (BMO) offered optimism mixed with caution — growth may slow, but recession risk remains moderate.
Late in the day, the Industry Celebration brought attendees together on the show floor for games (e.g., putting challenge, beanbag toss), announcements, and prizes.
Innovation Grant Highlights
Among the ideas on display:
- Alpine (ITW) – Plan Comparison Tool
- AnnotiQ – Smart Glasses
- Dusty Robotics – FieldPrint Platform
- FairBuild AI – Contract-review AI
- Randek – Zero-Labor Robotic Sub-assembly
The People’s Choice winner — selected by attendee votes — underscored the industry’s appetite for practical, tech-driven solutions.
Why BCMC Matters — Now More Than Ever
This annual summit is not just a trade show — it’s a communal engine for the structural building component and framing sectors. BCMC has evolved from machinery showcases to become a nexus of strategy, innovation, and professional bonding.
- Bridging framers and manufacturers: The Framer Summit (hosted by the National Framers Council) ensures framers’ voices and needs are integrated into manufacturing conversations.
- Seeing tech in action: Live machinery, software demos, AI and robotics use cases — not just concepts, but tangible tools professionals can evaluate firsthand.
- Collective problem-solving: Workforce challenges, supply chain resilience, safety, and design integration all surfaced in sessions and roundtables — and many will carry into working groups this year.
- Relationships that endure: Many in the industry say BCMC feels like a reunion — a place where “old-timers” and newcomers alike connect over shared purpose.
What’s Next — Momentum Beyond October
As participants return home, the real work begins:
- Implementing new ideas: Companies will pilot tools, test processes, and sharpen workflows inspired by what they saw this week.
- Staying connected: Many of the relationships formed here aren’t fleeting — follow-ups, collaborations, and joint projects will likely emerge.
- Preparing for BCMC 2026: The bar has been raised. Expectations for next year will center on even greater innovation, deeper education, and stronger integration between framers and manufacturers.
