E-News Bulletin

May 2026, Issue 2

Now Available to Premier Training Subscribers: Leadership 102 Tack

NIA's Leadership Development 102 Track is now available for Premier Training Subscribers! This track builds on the fundamentals of Leadership Development 101 and is designed for individuals who have successfully navigated the initial transition into leadership. It includes:

After completion of these courses, you will receive a completion certificate and 4 professional development hours. Courses listed above are also available individually.

Start Learning

NIA Events

▶ Oct. 6: Advanced Registration Deadline for NIA’s Fall Summit, MGM National Harbor, October 28–29

▶ Apr. 12–14, 2027: 71st Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Fall Courses Available

▶ Nov. 4–5, 2026: NIA’s Insulation Energy Appraisal Program. Click here to register.

▶ Dec. 8–9, 2026: NIA’s Thermal Insulation Inspector Certification. Click here to register. The last class sold out, so register early!

Leader in Lamination, Black Bros. Offers Streamlined Insulation System

This custom-engineered laminating line designed and built by Black Bros. Co. is an affordable option to boost productivity for insulation manufacturers. The machinery flawlessly bonds reflective foil and kraft paper to insulation, non-wovens and more providing ultimate versatility and efficiency.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWPjv3tCvxA

Get Involved: NIA’s Mechanical Insulation Installation Standards Working Groups

Work is well underway on the drafts of insulation installation standard practices/guidelines for our industry. The topics for the first round of drafts, and the Document Project Managers (DPMs), include:

Pipe Supports (Darrell Peil, Knauf)
Vapor Retarders and Vapor Stops (Erica Schneider, Bartelt Insulation)
Flanges (Lee Stuckenschmidt, Systems Undercover)
Damaged Insulation (Scott Sinclair, Johns Manville)

We welcome all members interested in participating in this important work. To join one or more of the working groups, please sign up here. You will be notified of future meetings/deadlines for the relevant working groups.

Questions: Please contact Jeff DeGraaf (jdegraaf@insulation.org) or Kristin DiDomenico (kdidomenico@insulation.org).

Product Focus: Mechanical Insulation Installation Video Series (Online)

Strengthen your training program with the NIA Mechanical Insulation Installation Video Series. Available in English and Spanish in both DVD and online formats, this educational series covers eight core topics from calcium silicate to reusable covers.

With step-by-step demonstrations from experienced mechanics, it's perfect for contractors, distributors, and educators. Plus, individual course modules are available for purchase upon request!

Visit our store to learn more about the series and to explore the formats.

Visit the Store

Safety Update: Planning Ahead for the Heat

As temperatures begin rising across many parts of the country, employers are encouraged to review heat illness prevention procedures and ensure workers are prepared for warmer working conditions. OSHA guidance notes that heat-related risks can affect employees in both indoor and outdoor environments, particularly during physically demanding work or when heat-generating equipment and protective clothing are involved. Proactive planning, worker training, and effective supervision can help reduce risks and support safer jobsites throughout the summer months. Visit OSHA’s heat illness prevention resources to learn more about recommended planning and preparedness measures.

Learn More

Quick Links to Access Your NIA Member Benefits

Start building your skills–visit NIA's Education Center.
Visit the NIA Member Portal for the NIA News archives, update your contact info, and more.
Learn more about 2026 training courses.
Access NIA's Online Store 24-7.
Submit an Insulation Outlook article to editor@insulation.org. It is your forum to speak to engineers.
Show your customers how insulation can immediately save energy and lower carbon emissions. Find the evidence on the Carbon Reduction web page.
Have a project problem you're trying to solve? See if we have an article on it. Search and read the Insulation Outlook archives.