EDUCATION PROVIDER PROGRAM (EPP)

Finding the perfect low-maintenance and safe surface option for playgrounds can be a challenge. Join us in this hour-course as we discuss synthetic grass systems are manufactured and best practices for choosing and installing synthetic turf. Design professionals will learn which selection criteria to use when evaluating synthetic grass systems so they can choose a low-maintenance solution that will continue to be beautiful and functional for years to come.

Analyze the different types of gypsum technologies in terms of composition, characteristics, and testing. Discover the benefits of impact resistant gypsum in terms of performance, application, and cost.

In this course, we explore sound transmission and acoustical requirements in buildings. Codes, standards, and design considerations are thoroughly reviewed. Acoustically enhanced gypsum board assemblies are evaluated as a solution for improving acoustics in multiple indoor environments.

This course will better inform the designer on moisture management in the building envelope and related considerations.  The designer will evaluate rainscreen and wall assembly options and gain an understanding of how to incorporate rainscreens into their building envelope system. The designer will also gain understanding of some of the design requirements stipulated by codes and standards.

This course will provide a brief overview of Low-Slope Roof Systems to provide the necessary background to discuss cover boards & thermal barriers.  The various cover board types and reasons for their use will be described. Each board type will be discussed along with their primary features, benefits & challenges. The long-term performance of all low-slope roof systems is impacted by a number of external factors such as weather events and roof system abuse (natural & man-made). Important roof component performance criteria will be discussed and conclusions drawn, in order to increase your knowledge surrounding cover board selection.

Following a case study format, selected project team members from the DPR Phoenix Regional Headquarters tell their stories through a series of interviews, info-graphics, and building video tours. The DPR Phoenix Regional Headquarters achieved LEED Platinum certification under the LEED NC 2009 rating system, and received one of the first Net-Zero Energy certifications from the International Living Future Institute. The course demonstrates the innovative strategies the team used to optimize the building’s energy performance in a hot arid climate, such as a 4-part integrated passive cooling. Experts show how using high volume, low capacity fans throughout the project help with the achievement of IEQ c2 (Increased ventilation) and with achieving thermal comfort for the occupants.

This course expresses the reasons for concern regarding the environmental hazards that come with flooding and describes who is responsible when natural hazards and flooding occur. Learn what a Base Flood Elevation is, as well as the objectives of protection in order to employ this type of system.

Synthetic (artificial) grass, specifically designed for use with dogs, is a cost-effective solution that offers a clean, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environment for dogs. Presented here are the health, safety, performance, and cost benefits of installing synthetic grass specifically designed for dogs; its suitable applications; design considerations; installation factors; and maintenance guidelines.

To optimize the design and performance of commercial water heater systems, professionals should understand the difference between standard and high efficiency gas water heaters. Join us in this one-hour course as we cover the benefits of high efficiency gas water heaters and how to easily convert from standard to high efficiency. Participants will also learn methods for estimating hot water demands, best plumbing and venting principles, and emerging technologies for water heaters.

Blueprints for Victory: Comprehensive Sports Facility Design is a dynamic and in-depth course crafted to empower architects with the knowledge and skills essential for excelling in the design of modern sports facilities. This course offers a thorough exploration of sports facility architecture, including building design principles, field configurations, equipment selection, spectator amenities, and emerging industry trends. Participants will gain valuable insights into creating versatile, sustainable, and aesthetically striking spaces that meet the needs of athletes, spectators, and communities alike. With a strong emphasis on innovation, safety, and accessibility, this course equips architects to design sports facilities that enhance performance, foster engagement, and leave lasting impressions, transforming visions into championship-worthy realities.

The walkthrough of a boiler and water heater retrofit is a vital step to assessing the existing conditions and determining what needs to be fixed to meet the client’s needs. Join us in this one-hour course as we discuss what to bring with you, what to document, and what questions to ask when performing a walkthrough. Participants will learn key questions to ask and documentations to make in regards to the water piping, venting, gas piping, and other factors to ensure a boiler and water heater retrofit is safe and code compliant.

When designing any guard rail, there are a variety options to choose from, including the type of framing, infill material, cable, glass, wood or metal designs. Today’s guard rail systems and solutions must provide strength, durability and design flexibility. They must be suited for different applications, interior or exterior use, commercial, industrial, and residential projects. This presentation will discuss the unique design requirements of railing using cable as the railing in-fill. We’ll review the proper type of cable, proper railing frame designs to work with tensioned cables, different cable mounting and tension fittings necessary for proper installation, and how to specify cable railing for your next project.

Operable walls offer the opportunity to maximize any space by implementing superior engineering, aesthetics and technology. Join us in this one-hour course as we dive into key understandings of operable partitions to address panel construction, suspension systems, sealing mechanisms, design options, automation, and safety. By the end of this course, design professionals will learn how all of these components work together to impact a project’s environment in terms of space management as well as the end users’ experience and well-being.

This course focuses on building connectors, providing an understanding of deflection and its importance in accommodating movement. Participants will learn about various types of deflection and drift clips used in the industry. The course also explores different support clips suitable for rigid attachments in building construction, as well as specialty clips and connectors that enhance performance and durability. Additionally, participants will explore labor-saving products available in the industry to improve efficiency and speed during construction. Finally, the course familiarizes participants with industry tools designed to aid in the design of connectors for building structures, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and ensure the stability and durability of buildings.

This course will cover types of fasteners for rooftop applications. You will learn how to identify both roof decks and roof fasteners and the best practices for matching them together. You will discover key characteristics of fasteners and roofs to use in your everyday roof projects.