Set against the backdrop of Boston’s iconic architecture and spirit of design innovation, the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design 2025 (AIA25) brought together thousands of professionals from June 4–7 for immersive learning and high-impact networking. The event served as a premier platform for showcasing the latest in building materials, sustainability, and digital tools.

National Gypsum’s Technical Marketing team made a strong impression with a dynamic booth experience that featured the new interactive Fire & Sound Assembly Selector™, which drew consistent praise for its intuitive interface and time-saving functionality.

“Architects showed strong interest in our Fire & Sound Assembly Selector,” said Amy Wilson, Construction Design Manager – Southwest. “Our interactive touchscreen display effectively demonstrated the functionality and flexibility of the tool, and attendees showed an appreciation for how the platform will help them save time and work more efficiently.”

Also generating excitement was the EVOLVE™ family of products, supported by newly released Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)—a major milestone that reinforced National Gypsum’s commitment to sustainable, transparent product development.

“Showcasing our EVOLVE product line highlighted our commitment to meeting the industry’s evolving sustainability needs,” said Cathryne Robinson, Construction Design Manager – West. “The added impact of now having product EPDs was significant as well!”

The show also reinforced the value of face-to-face engagement. From reconnecting with long-time contacts to forming new relationships, the Technical Marketing team capitalized on every opportunity to deepen connections and demonstrate our expertise.

Architects came to the booth with specific project questions, allowing team members to provide real-time guidance and showcase tools like the Fire & Sound Assembly Selector and technical resource guides like the PURPLE Book®, The SoundBook® and The Wood Book™.

“Several architects with whom our CDMs have built relationships over the years stopped by the booth to reconnect,” said Scott Hughes, Lead Construction Design Manager. “It is nice to see those relationships develop over time. Also, several architects had very specific project questions. It was great to be a resource to them and, where it applied, show them live our UL Designs on the Fire & Sound Assembly Selector.”

The booth also served as a meeting point for key industry figures, including representatives from HOK, IIBEC, and USGBC, further strengthening our presence in the broader design and construction community.

Closing Reflections

AIA25 was more than just a showcase—it was a reaffirmation of National Gypsum’s leadership in innovation, sustainability and technical expertise. The team’s ability to engage meaningfully with architects, consultants, and industry leaders helped strengthen existing relationships and open doors to new opportunities, including Lunch & Learns and project-specific follow-ups across multiple regions.

“Looking ahead, our team is excited to build on the momentum from AIA25 through continued engagement, education, and innovation,” said Amy Hockett, National Marketing Manager – Architectural Services & Sustainability. “We’re committed to being a trusted partner to the design community as they navigate evolving challenges and opportunities in the built environment.”